Is AI the future for parcel handling?

Conveyor Sortation

Parcel handling is a rapidly growing industry, heavily due to the rise in demand of online shopping. This rise has meant a surge in demand for many logistical solutions, whether it is conveyors, robotics, or automation solutions. At L-A-C Logistics Automation, we provide bespoke and comprehensive solutions dependent upon your needs from a solution. We offer both manual and automated parcel handling and sortation solutions, which are able to handle all postal and parcel items. Also, this includes mail, parcel, totes and flatpacks.

What is artificial intelligence?

Intelligence, usually used to describe humans, is the ability to acquire, learn and understand new skills and information. On the other hand, AI (Artificial Intelligence), refers to machines and robots. Thus, it is defined as the ability for a computer, robot, or machine to imitate the problem-solving or decision-making abilities of humans.

The benefits of AI

There are many benefits to artificial intelligence, for parcel handling and other logistical situations. Some of these include:

  • Automation.
  • Smart decision making.
  • Enhanced customer experience.
  • Research and data analysis.
  • Solving complex problems.
  • Business continuity.
  • Managing repetitive tasks.

Using AI with conveyorsWhat are the four different types of AI?

There are four different types of AI, each explained briefly below:

Reactive machines – this is the most basic type of AI; reactive machines are purely reactive. They do not possess the capability to use memory or past experiences to perform tasks and make current decisions. Therefore, no learning occurs, just decisions based purely on reaction to input and output.

Limited memory – these types of AI refer to the ability to store previous data based on previous tasks completed and decisions made. This intelligence allows for machines to make smarter decisions and predictions, from past experiences.

Theory of mind – we are yet to reach the point in time where theory of mind is widely used. They are currently used scarcely due to technological restrictions, but an example of it in present day is self-driving cars.

Self-awareness – this is the final step of AI development, which would eventually be able to make decisions completely by itself and based on itself. This would enable machines to be conscious (self-aware), however this is currently far from becoming a reality.

Can AI be dangerous?

As technology continues to grow at a rapid rate, AI solutions seem to be doing the same. The higher levels of control and sophistication of AI, allow machines to perform more complex tasks than ever before. The worry in the logistics industry could be that AI can bring an element of danger. However, replacing workers with AI installed machines for repetitive and mundane tasks, removes the risk of harming an employee. As a result, you are left with a safer workplace, as well as ensuring your workforce can concentrate on more complex, less repetitive tasks.

Parcel handling solutions at L-A-C Logistics Automation

Whatever the size, speeds and needs of your parcel handling solution, the L-A-C Logistics Automation team boast high levels of expertise and experience to meet your system’s needs. We utilise AI accordingly, depending upon the sortation and parcel handling requirements of your system. The L-A-C Logistics Automation team are consistently developing knowledge around AI, to ensure installations give our customers the most efficient system.

Want to find out more?

To find out more about parcel handling solutions at L-A-C Logistics Automation, head to our solutions page. If you want to keep up to date with the latest updates at L-A-C Logistics Automation, then follow us on LinkedIn. Finally, to discuss parcel handling, or any other logistical need you may have, visit our contact page.

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