Honeywell showed off an automated robotic unloader for DCs, saying the device can empty trailers or shipping containers, moving parcels on a mobile conveyor without needing operators or equipment modifications.

According to Honeywell, the robotic unloader uses artificial intelligence to operate fully autonomously inside of a trailer, reducing the manual effort required to operate receiving docks for retail merchandise and parcel facilities. The unloader also helps customers improve workplace safety, reduce staffing challenges, and minimize damage to packages, Honeywell said.

"For distribution center workers, unloading packages is labor-intensive, physically demanding and injury-prone work that is often subject to extreme temperatures. These factors lead to low employee satisfaction and high turnover—as much as 36 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics," Matt Wicks, vice president of product development at Honeywell Intelligrated, said in a release.

Honeywell also introduced a robotic sorter induction system for parcels and e-commerce, featuring integrations with robotic picking technology from Soft Robotics. The company also showed a CartConnect platform with Fetch Robotics. The induction system combines automated transport with voice-directed and pick-to-light order fulfillment solutions.

Learn more at www.honeywell.com.