ARISE Experiments
RISES
Safe, efficient, and human-centric automation for modern warehouses
RISES integrates robotic forklifts into brownfield block storage, ensuring safe and efficient human-robot interaction in staging areas. Incorporating advanced sensors, the solution supports workers and is modular, adaptable for various applications.
The Challenge: Safety and Efficiency Gaps in Block Storage
Block storage, widely used in industries like beverages and consumer goods, relies on manual forklifts, which drive 75% of operating costs and are involved in 11% of accidents annually. Dynamic staging areas—critical for loading and unloading—are prone to collisions and inefficiencies. Current automation solutions either reduce storage capacity by over 50% to prioritize safety or eliminate staging areas, slowing operations and limiting human oversight. RISES tackles these challenges by enabling safe, efficient human-robot interaction in staging areas while optimizing warehouse throughput.
Our Solution: AI-Powered Robotic Forklifts for Smarter Logistics
RISES integrates autonomous forklifts into brownfield block storage using SLAPStack, an AI-driven operating system. Advanced sensors (LiDAR, ToF cameras) and sensor pooling enable selective obstacle recognition, distinguishing static from dynamic elements for safe navigation in narrow lanes with reaction times under 200 ms. Virtual barriers coordinate access to staging areas, preventing human-robot interference. FIWARE’s Orion-LD and NGSI-LD provide real-time analytics for tracking forklift locations and battery levels.
Key features include:
- Selective Obstacle Recognition: Ensures safe, efficient navigation in dynamic environments.
- Coordinated Staging Access: Virtual barriers via SLAPStack optimize resource allocation.
- Real-Time Monitoring: FIWARE enables live tracking and predictive alerts.
- Modular ROS 2 Framework: Supports diverse automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and use cases
Human Centricity: Empowering Warehouse Workers
RISES aligns with Industry 5.0 by automating repetitive, high-risk tasks like pallet stacking, reducing accident risks and physical strain. Workers shift to value-added roles like process oversight, using the intuitive SLAPStack WebApp, which boosts job satisfaction and addresses labor shortages. By preparing goods overnight, RISES streamlines daytime tasks. Its low physical demands and accessible interfaces promote inclusivity, enabling diverse workers — including those with physical limitations — to thrive in safer, more engaging workplaces.
The ARISE Contribution: Reusable Open-Source Modules for Logistics Innovation
RISES contributes modular, open-source ROS 2 modules to the ARISE Catalog, enhancing logistics automation.
These include:
- HRI and FIWARE Monitoring Module: Real-time alerts and predictive guidance for safe collaboration.
- Integration Module for coordinated operations.
Built on ROS 2, FIWARE, and VDA5050 standards, these interoperable modules ensure scalability across industries like beverages, consumer goods, and chemicals, fostering open innovation.
Impact & Scalability: Driving the Future of Logistics Automation
RISES targets the $51.6 billion forklift market, projected to double by 2031, with over €10 million revenue potential in Germany’s beverage sector alone. Its Warehouse-as-a-Service (WaaS) model delivers up to 70% cost savings, 50% faster order processing, and a return on investment in 2 years. Rapid deployment within one week and energy-efficient operations—using lithium-ion batteries and optimized scheduling—align with EU Green Deal goals, ensuring sustainable, scalable solutions for SMEs and large firms across logistics sectors.
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