Exotec launches Next Gen Skypod system: The ultimate robotic AS/RS solution for warehouse automation

The latest generation of Exotec's signature Skypod System combines advanced picking, integrated buffering and perfect sequencing for maximum warehouse efficiency

Today, Exotec, a global specialist in warehouse robotics, announces the launch of the Next Gen Skypod. The new generation offers higher performance, improved storage density and advanced software features.   The Next Gen Skypod includes several design improvements, including a more compact Skypod robot, a workstation for robot-to-robot picking, a high-throughput changer and denser storage. These innovations and new software features improve throughput on a single workstation with 50% and increase storage density to 30% over the previous generation.   

The key differentiator of the Next Gen Skypod is its ability to perform both piece and case picking. This allows Exotec to better address multichannel needs with a single solution. In addition, the system supports additional logistics functions, in addition to external traditional equipment and complex subsystems.

This allows customers to not only simplify the flow of goods within the warehouse, but also reduce the overall footprint of the system by minimizing the number of conveyors, sorters, external storage and packing stations. Features of the Next Gen Skypod include:  Integrated buffer: the new Skypod System provides buffering within the system. Completed or partially completed orders are automatically stored on shelves until ready for shipment or further consolidation. This reduces the need for separate picking areas or external buffering systems. Perfect sequencing: the system guarantees strict outbound sequencing before orders are prepared. Robots group orders and deliver them in a specific order to the Exchanger, which then sends them to the outbound line. This enables efficient loading of pallets, containers or trucks based on delivery routes, store shelf plans or other unloading requirements, without the need for external sorting equipment.Pick-and-Pack: packing becomes an integrated part of the order picking process. Operators pick directly into shipping containers, eliminating manual packing operations further down the line. This functionality aligns perfectly with custom packaging solutions. These solutions can be integrated with the Next Gen Skypod, allowing products to be picked directly into customized containers, significantly reducing last-mile delivery costs.  

"In designing the Next Gen Skypod, our goal was to create a solution that would set the industry standard of operational excellence and elegance for the next decade and beyond," says Romain Moulin, CEO and co-founder of Exotec. "We are seeing our customers transform their entire supply chain thanks to this innovation, from combining case and piece picking to reducing transportation costs with outbound sequencing. It's great to see that impact." 

Exotec developed the new generation Skypod in response to changing market needs and feedback from existing customers, who are increasingly deploying warehouse robotics for a wider range of processes. For the past two years, Exotec has been selling and implementing the updated Skypod system in stealth mode worldwide. The company has now completed more than 20 projects worldwide, accounting for total sales of $400 million. Customers such as clothing company Oxford Industries (Tommy Bahama, Lilly Pulitzer, Southern Tide, etc.), Grainger and supermarket chain E.Leclerc have deployed the solution to optimize and strengthen their supply chain processes.   "We chose Exotec because of its high storage density and operational flexibility. Robotic developments have allowed us to create a larger buffer area to prepare orders within the system," says Maxence Maurice, CEO of E.Leclerc in Seclin. "Before, the customer journey, from arrival at the pickup point to departure with groceries, took between 10 and 15 minutes. Today, with the latest Exotec solution, this takes less than 5 minutes."  For more information on the Next Gen Skypod system, visit www.exotec.com.