Quality Enhancement via Human-Robot Collaboration in Logistics Workflows
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64137/31078699/IJETET-V2I1P103Keywords:
Human-Robot Collaboration (HRC), Logistics Workflow Optimization, Quality Enhancement, Automation in Supply Chains, Collaborative Robotics (Cobots), Workflow Efficiency, Industrial AI, Human Factors in RoboticsAbstract
The rapid growth of e-commerce and global supply chains has intensified the demand for high-quality, efficient logistics operations. Traditional automation has improved speed but often falls short in flexibility and quality assurance. This paper explores human-robot collaboration (HRC) as a strategy to enhance quality in logistics workflows by combining the strengths of human judgment and robotic precision. We examine various HRC models, task allocation strategies, and workflow optimization techniques that minimize errors, improve accuracy, and increase operational efficiency. Case studies and emerging technologies, such as AI-enabled robotics and real-time monitoring systems, demonstrate the potential for improved quality metrics in logistics processes. Challenges including human factors, technical limitations, and organizational integration are discussed, and future directions for adaptive, intelligent HRC systems are outlined. The findings suggest that effective human-robot collaboration can significantly elevate the quality and reliability of logistics operations while fostering a synergistic workplace.
References
[1] R. Bogue, “Collaborative robots: a review of capabilities, applications, and future prospects,” Industrial Robot, vol. 45, no. 5, pp. 421–428, 2018.
[2] M. Ghobakhloo, “The future of manufacturing industry: a strategic roadmap toward Industry 4.0,” Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management, vol. 29, no. 6, pp. 910–936, Oct. 2022, doi: https://doi.org/10.1108/jmtm-02-2018-0057.
[3] E. Guizzo, “Robots in the warehouse: The rise of collaborative robotics,” IEEE Spectrum, vol. 48, no. 7, pp. 24–30, 2011.
[4] V. Villani, F. Pini, F. Leali, and C. Secchi, “Survey on human–robot collaboration in industrial settings: Safety, intuitive interfaces and applications,” Mechatronics, vol. 55, pp. 248–266, Nov. 2018, doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mechatronics.2018.02.009.
[5] P. R. Wurman, R. D’Andrea, and M. Mountz, “Coordinating Hundreds of Cooperative, Autonomous Vehicles in Warehouses,” AI Magazine, vol. 29, no. 1, pp. 9–9, Mar. 2008, doi: https://doi.org/10.1609/aimag.v29i1.2082.
[6] M. Bortolini, E. Ferrari, M. Gamberi, and F. Pilati, “Human-robot collaboration in logistics: A survey and research agenda,” Computers & Industrial Engineering, vol. 105, pp. 310–326, 2017.
[7] A. Chiarini, “Industry 4.0, lean production, and quality improvement: New paradigms in logistics,” Business Process Management Journal, vol. 23, no. 3, pp. 482–502, 2017.
[8] C. Chen, K. Liu, and X. Zhang, “Optimizing warehouse operations through human-robot collaborative systems. Robotics and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing, vol. 63, 2020.
[9] “Manufacturing’s next act.” Available: https://www.mckinsey.com.br/~/media/McKinsey/Business%20Functions/Operations/Our%20Insights/Manufacturings%20next%20act/Manufacturings%20next%20act.pdf
[10] S. Kim, and J. Kim, “Human–robot collaboration for improving efficiency and quality in logistics workflows,” Robotics and Autonomous Systems, vol. 142, 2021.
[11] A. Moreira, and J. Cabral, “Digital twins and simulation for logistics workflow optimization,” International Journal of Production Research, vol. 57, no. 12, pp. 3870–3885, 2019.
[12] M. A. Peshkin, J. E. Colgate, W. Wannasuphoprasit, C. A. Moore, R. B. Gillespie, and P. Akella, “Cobot architecture,” IEEE Transactions on Robotics and Automation, vol. 17, no. 4, pp. 377–390, 2001, doi: https://doi.org/10.1109/70.954751.
[13] R. D’Andrea, Guest editorial: A revolution in the warehouse,” IEEE Transactions on Automation Science and Engineering, vol. 12, no. 4, pp. 1263–1265, 2015.
Downloads
Published
Issue
Section
License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
