Supply Chain

Management
(SCM)
PREPARED BY: ASSISTANT PROF. PURVAJ PIYUSH VAIDYA
(MTECH)
SYLL ABUS: MODULE 5

01/01/2025 R. N. G. PATEL INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

 Overview of Automation in
Logistics
• Automation in logistics refers to the integration of various technological solutions and processes to
streamline and optimize the movement of goods, materials, and information within the supply chain

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

• It aims to improve efficiency, accuracy, and speed while reducing costs and minimizing errors
• Here's an overview of automation in logistics

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Overview of Automation in
Logistics (Contd.)
• Warehouse Automation:
• Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs): These are autonomous vehicles equipped with guidance systems

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

such as lasers or markers that navigate through warehouses to transport goods.
• Robotic Picking Systems: Robots equipped with vision systems and grippers can autonomously pick
items from shelves, increasing the speed and accuracy of order fulfillment.
• Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS): These systems use computer-controlled
mechanisms to automatically place and retrieve goods from storage locations, maximizing space
utilization and reducing labor requirements
• Inventory Management:
• RFID (Radio Frequency Identification): RFID tags are used to track inventory throughout the supply
chain, enabling real-time visibility and accurate inventory management.
• Barcode Scanning: Automated barcode scanning systems are employed for inventory tracking and
management, reducing manual errors and improving efficiency.
• Inventory Optimization Software: Advanced algorithms analyze data to forecast demand, optimize
inventory levels, and improve supply chain planning

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Overview of Automation in
Logistics (Contd.)
• Transportation Automation:
• Autonomous Vehicles: Self-driving trucks and drones are being developed and tested for transporting

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

goods over long distances, offering potential cost savings and efficiency improvements.
• Route Optimization Software: AI-powered software optimizes delivery routes based on various
factors such as traffic conditions, delivery windows, and vehicle capacities.
• Fleet Management Systems: These systems use telematics and GPS technology to monitor vehicle
performance, track fuel usage, and optimize fleet operations
• Order Fulfillment:
• Automated Sorting Systems: Conveyor belts and robotic arms are used to sort and pack orders
efficiently, reducing order processing times.
• Pick-to-Light Systems: LED lights and displays guide warehouse workers to the location of items for
picking, increasing accuracy and speed.
• Automated Packaging: Machines automate the process of packaging goods, reducing manual labor
and ensuring consistent packaging quality

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Overview of Automation in
Logistics (Contd.)
• Information Systems:
• Warehouse Management Systems (WMS): These software solutions manage and optimize warehouse

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

operations, including inventory management, order processing, and labor tracking.
• Transportation Management Systems (TMS): TMS software optimizes transportation operations,
including carrier selection, route planning, and freight audit.
• Supply Chain Visibility Platforms: These platforms provide real-time visibility into the entire supply
chain, enabling better decision-making and proactive problem-solving

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 Robotic Process Automation
(RPA) in Supply Chain
• Robotic Process Automation (RPA) in the supply chain involves the use of software robots or "bots" to
automate repetitive and rule-based tasks across various functions within the supply chain

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

• RPA aims to streamline operations, reduce errors, enhance efficiency, and free up human resources to
focus on more strategic tasks
• Here's how RPA is applied in different areas of the supply chain:

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Robotic Process Automation
(RPA) in Supply Chain (Contd.)
• Order Processing:
• RPA bots can automatically process incoming orders by extracting relevant data from emails, forms, or

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

electronic documents.
• They validate orders against inventory levels, customer information, and pricing rules, ensuring
accuracy and consistency.
• Bots can also generate order confirmations, invoices, and shipping labels, speeding up the order
fulfillment process.
• Data Entry and Validation:
• RPA bots are used to automate data entry tasks by extracting data from various sources such as
spreadsheets, databases, or websites.
• They validate and cleanse data to ensure accuracy and consistency across systems.
• Bots can also reconcile data discrepancies and flag exceptions for manual review

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Robotic Process Automation
(RPA) in Supply Chain (Contd.)
• Inventory Management:
• RPA bots automate inventory tracking and management tasks by updating inventory levels, locations,

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

and statuses in real-time.
• They monitor stock levels and trigger alerts for replenishment when inventory falls below predefined
thresholds.
• Bots can also perform cycle counts and reconcile physical inventory with system records.
• Supplier Management:
• RPA is used to streamline supplier onboarding processes by automating document verification, data
entry, and compliance checks.
• Bots can extract supplier information from contracts, agreements, and vendor portals and update
supplier databases accordingly.
• They can also send automated notifications to suppliers for order acknowledgments, delivery updates,
and payment reminders

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Robotic Process Automation
(RPA) in Supply Chain (Contd.)
• Logistics and Transportation:
• RPA bots optimize transportation planning and execution by analyzing route options, carrier rates, and

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

delivery schedules.
• They generate shipping documents, customs declarations, and import/export paperwork to expedite
cross-border shipments.
• Bots track shipment status in real-time, proactively identify delivery exceptions, and initiate corrective
actions.
• Demand Forecasting and Planning:
• RPA automates data collection and analysis for demand forecasting by aggregating sales data, market
trends, and historical patterns.
• Bots generate demand forecasts, inventory replenishment plans, and production schedules based on
predefined algorithms and business rules.
• They can also adjust forecasts dynamically in response to changes in demand, supply constraints, or
market conditions

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 Autonomous Vehicles and
Drones in Logistics
• Autonomous vehicles and drones are revolutionizing the logistics industry by offering faster, more efficient,
and cost-effective methods of transportation and delivery

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

• Here's how they are being utilized:

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Autonomous Vehicles and
Drones in Logistics (Contd.)
• Autonomous Trucks:
• Long-Haul Transportation: Self-driving trucks equipped with advanced sensors and AI technology can

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

transport goods over long distances on highways. These trucks have the potential to operate
continuously, reducing transit times and improving efficiency.
• Last-Mile Delivery: Autonomous delivery trucks can navigate local roads and neighborhoods to deliver
packages directly to customers' doorsteps. They offer flexibility and scalability in urban areas where
congestion and parking limitations pose challenges for traditional delivery vehicles.
• Autonomous Delivery Robots:
• Ground Robots: These small, wheeled robots are designed to navigate sidewalks and pedestrian areas
to deliver packages to homes, offices, or businesses. They can carry multiple packages and use sensors
and cameras to avoid obstacles and pedestrians.
• Aerial Drones: Drones are used for delivering lightweight packages to remote or hard-to-reach areas.
They offer rapid delivery and can bypass traffic congestion, making them ideal for urgent deliveries or
emergencies

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Autonomous Vehicles and
Drones in Logistics (Contd.)
• Benefits:
• Efficiency: Autonomous vehicles and drones can operate 24/7, reducing transit times and improving

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

delivery speed.
• Cost Reduction: Automation reduces labor costs associated with drivers or delivery personnel, making
transportation and delivery more cost-effective.
• Safety: Autonomous vehicles are equipped with advanced safety features and systems to mitigate the
risk of accidents, making transportation safer for both goods and pedestrians.
• Environmental Impact: Electric-powered autonomous vehicles and drones produce fewer emissions
compared to traditional vehicles, contributing to environmental sustainability.

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Autonomous Vehicles and
Drones in Logistics (Contd.)
• Challenges:
• Regulatory Hurdles: Regulations governing the operation of autonomous vehicles and drones vary by

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

region and country, creating legal and compliance challenges for logistics companies.
• Technology Limitations: Despite advancements in AI and sensor technology, autonomous vehicles and
drones still face limitations in navigating complex environments, adverse weather conditions, and
unpredictable situations.
• Public Perception: Concerns about safety, privacy, and job displacement may impact public acceptance
and adoption of autonomous vehicles and drones for logistics purposes

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 Autonomous Vehicles and
Drones in Logistics (Contd.)
• Future Outlook:
• The use of autonomous vehicles and drones in logistics is expected to continue growing as technology

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

advances and regulations evolve.
• Integration with other emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and Internet of
Things (IoT) will further enhance the capabilities and efficiency of autonomous logistics systems.
• Collaboration between industry stakeholders, governments, and regulatory bodies will be essential to
address challenges and unlock the full potential of autonomous vehicles and drones in logistics

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Warehouse Robotics and
Automation
• Warehouse robotics and automation are transforming the way warehouses operate by introducing various
technologies to streamline processes, increase efficiency, and reduce labor costs

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

• Here are some key components and applications of warehouse robotics and automation:

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Warehouse Robotics and
Automation (Contd.)
• Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS):
• AS/RS are computer-controlled systems that automate the storage and retrieval of goods in

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

warehouses.
• They use cranes, shuttles, or robotic arms to move pallets or bins to and from storage locations.
• AS/RS maximize storage density, optimize inventory management, and reduce the need for manual
handling of goods.
• Goods-to-Person Systems:
• Goods-to-person systems bring items directly to warehouse workers for picking rather than requiring
workers to travel to pick locations.
• Automated storage systems, conveyors, and robotic shuttles retrieve items from storage locations and
deliver them to pick stations where workers can fulfill orders.
• Goods-to-person systems improve picking efficiency, reduce walking time for workers, and enable
better use of warehouse space

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Warehouse Robotics and
Automation (Contd.)
• Sortation Systems:
• Sortation systems automate the process of sorting and diverting items to the appropriate shipping

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

lanes or destinations.
• They use conveyor belts, tilt trays, or robotic arms to sort items based on predefined criteria such as
destination, carrier, or shipping method.
• Sortation systems increase throughput, reduce order processing times, and minimize errors in order
fulfillment.
• Warehouse Management Systems (WMS):
• WMS software integrates with warehouse robotics and automation systems to coordinate and
optimize warehouse operations.
• It manages inventory levels, tracks the movement of goods, schedules tasks for robots and workers,
and provides real-time visibility into warehouse operations.
• WMS enables efficient use of warehouse resources, improves order accuracy, and enhances overall
productivity

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 Role of Robotics in Warehousing
Operations
• Robotics play a crucial role in modern warehousing operations, revolutionizing the way goods are stored,
picked, packed, and shipped

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

• Here are several key roles that robotics fulfill in warehousing operations:

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Role of Robotics in Warehousing
Operations (Contd.)
• Automation of Material Handling: Robots, such as Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and robotic
forklifts, automate the movement of goods within the warehouse. They transport pallets, bins, and

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

other materials between storage locations, production areas, and shipping docks, reducing the need for
manual labor and improving efficiency
• Goods-to-Person Order Fulfillment: Robotics enable goods-to-person order fulfillment systems, where
robots retrieve items from storage locations and deliver them to warehouse workers at pick stations.
This approach minimizes walking time for workers, increases picking accuracy, and accelerates order
processing
• Robotic Picking and Packing: Robotic arms equipped with sensors and grippers are used for automated
picking and packing of goods. These robots can handle a wide range of items, including boxes, cartons,
and individual products, with precision and speed. They reduce labor costs, increase throughput, and
improve order accuracy in fulfillment centers

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Role of Robotics in Warehousing
Operations (Contd.)
• Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS): AS/RS utilize robotic cranes, shuttles, or vertical lifts
to automatically store and retrieve goods from storage locations. These systems maximize warehouse

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

space utilization, optimize inventory management, and enable high-density storage of goods, reducing
the footprint required for storage operations.
• Sortation Systems: Robotics play a role in sortation systems, where they automate the process of
sorting and diverting items to the appropriate shipping lanes or destinations. Robotic arms or conveyor
systems can accurately sort items based on predefined criteria such as destination, carrier, or shipping
method, improving order accuracy and streamlining the shipping process
• Quality Control and Inspection: Robotics are used for quality control and inspection tasks in
warehousing operations. Vision systems mounted on robotic arms can inspect products for defects,
damage, or missing components, ensuring that only high-quality items are shipped to customers
• Inventory Management: Robotics contribute to inventory management by automating tasks such as
cycle counting, inventory reconciliation, and stock replenishment. Robots equipped with RFID readers or
barcode scanners can quickly and accurately identify and record inventory levels, minimizing stockouts
and overstock situations

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Role of Robotics in Warehousing
Operations (Contd.)
• Warehouse Maintenance and Cleaning: Robotics can assist in warehouse maintenance and cleaning
tasks, such as floor sweeping, debris removal, and equipment maintenance. Automated cleaning robots

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

help maintain a clean and safe working environment for warehouse staff and equipment

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 Collaborative Robots (Cobots) in
Supply Chain
• Collaborative robots, also known as cobots, are robots designed to work alongside humans in a shared
workspace, collaborating on tasks in a safe and efficient manner

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

• In the supply chain, cobots are utilized to enhance productivity, flexibility, and safety across various
operations. Here's how collaborative robots contribute to the supply chain:

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Collaborative Robots (Cobots) in
Supply Chain (Contd.)
• Warehouse Operations:
• Picking and Packing: Cobots assist warehouse workers in picking and packing tasks by handing them

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

items, holding boxes in place for packing, or even autonomously packing goods into boxes.
• Inventory Management: Cobots can perform inventory counting tasks by scanning barcodes or RFID
tags, improving accuracy and efficiency in inventory management.
• Loading and Unloading: Collaborative robots help load and unload trucks by moving pallets or boxes
to and from loading docks, reducing manual labor and minimizing the risk of injuries.
• Manufacturing and Assembly:
• Assembly Assistance: Cobots work alongside human workers in assembly lines, assisting with
repetitive or heavy lifting tasks, and performing precise operations such as screwing, gluing, or
soldering.
• Quality Control: Collaborative robots perform quality checks on products during the manufacturing
process, inspecting for defects, measuring dimensions, or performing tests to ensure product quality.
• Machine Tending: Cobots operate alongside machines in manufacturing processes, loading raw
materials, removing finished parts, and performing routine maintenance tasks

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Collaborative Robots (Cobots) in
Supply Chain (Contd.)
• Order Fulfillment and E-commerce:
• E-commerce Order Processing: Cobots assist in fulfilling online orders by picking items from shelves,

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

packing them into boxes, and preparing them for shipping, enabling faster order processing and
fulfillment.
• Returns Processing: Collaborative robots help handle returned items by inspecting, sorting, and
restocking them back into inventory, reducing processing time and improving efficiency in reverse
logistics.
• Supply Chain Logistics:
• Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs): Cobots in the form of AMRs navigate warehouses or distribution
centers to transport goods between different locations, optimizing material flow and reducing the
need for manual transportation.
• Collaborative Palletizing and Depalletizing: Cobots work alongside human operators to palletize or
depalletize goods, stacking or unstacking boxes or containers in an organized manner, improving
warehouse space utilization and efficiency

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Collaborative Robots (Cobots) in
Supply Chain (Contd.)
• Safety and Ergonomics:
• Cobots are designed with built-in safety features such as sensors and soft exteriors that enable safe

Assistant Prof. Purvaj Piyush Vaidya (MTech)

interaction with humans, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries in the workplace.
• Collaborative robots help improve ergonomics by handling heavy lifting tasks or repetitive motions,
reducing strain and fatigue on human workers.
• Flexibility and Scalability:
• Cobots offer flexibility and scalability in supply chain operations, as they can be easily reprogrammed
or redeployed to perform different tasks or adapt to changing production requirements

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