LOGISTICS ROBOTS

International Journal of Advanced Scientific and Technical Research ISSN 2249-9954 Available online on http://www.rspublication.com/ijst/index.html volume 15, No. 6, 2025 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18059043 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, [email protected] 286 LOGISTICS ROBOTS Matthew N. O. Sadiku 1 , David Padi 2 and Janet O. Sadiku 3 1 Roy G. Perry College of Engineering Prairie View A&M University Prairie View, TX 77446 2 Graduate School of International Business and Leadership Midwest University Wentzville, Missouri, USA 3 Juliana King University Houston, TX, USA Email: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] International Journal of Advanced Scientific and Technical Research Available online on http://www.rspublication.com/ijst/index.html ISSN 2249-9954 ARTICLE INFO ABSTRACT ©2025 RS Publication Paper ID: IJRM694B880FDE0ED Published: 2025-12-26 DOI: https://dx.doi.or g/10.5281/zenodo. 18059043 Page No: 286-299 Logistics robots have been the ideal solution for supply chain automation while maximizing your products' safety. Robotics in logistics involves introducing automated solutions into supply chain processes. The goal has been to ensure timely deliveries and manage the costs while offering optimal customer service. The introduction of automation into the logistics industry has not only improved quality but also significantly boosted productivity and efficiency. This is to increase the flow of goods, maximize product safety, and enhance the warehouse's performance. Logistics robots have become an integral part of various industries, each benefiting from the efficiency, accuracy, and cost savings they deliver. This paper explores the transformative impact of robots on the logistics landscape. Key Words: Robots, Robotics, logistics, robots, logistics robots, supply chain, transportation Cite This Paper: Matthew N. O. Sadiku, David Padi and Janet O. Sadiku (2025). "LOGISTICS ROBOTS". INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ADVANCED SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL RESEARCH (IJASTR), vol. 15, no. 6, 2025, pp. 286-299. DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18059043 International Journal of Advanced Scientific and Technical Research ISSN 2249-9954 Available online on http://www.rspublication.com/ijst/index.html volume 15, No. 6, 2025 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18059043 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, [email protected] 287 INTRODUCTION In an era of relentless technological advancement, the role of robots in reshaping industries cannot be overstated. In the realm of logistics, various types of robots have emerged as indispensable allies, revolutionizing how goods are stored, moved, and managed. This integration of robots into logistics not only streamlined processes but also empowers human workers to focus on tasks that require creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Robotics applications expedite the flow of goods in logistics facilities, streamlining storage tasks and maximizing operational efficiency and safety [1]. The application of logistics robots extends far beyond traditional warehousing and distribution, impacting sectors such as e-commerce, manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and agriculture. Logistics robots are automated machines specifically designed to perform various tasks related to the management and operation of supply chains and logistics. They are pivotal in revolutionizing business operations across various sectors. WHAT IS A ROBOT? The word “robot” was coined by Czechriter Karel Čapek in his play in 1920. Isaac Asimov coined the term “robotics” in 1942 and came up with three rules to guide the behavior of robots and later added the zeroth law [2]:  Law 0: A robot may not injure humanity or through inaction, allow humanity to come to harm.  Law 1: Robots must never harm human beings,  Law 2: Robots must follow instructions from humans without violating rule 1,  Law3: Robots must protect themselves without violating the other rules. Robots are becoming increasingly prevalent in almost every industry, from healthcare to manufacturing. Although there are many types of robots designed for different environments and for different purposes and applications, they all share four fundamental similarities [3]: (1) All robots have some form of mechanical construction designed to achieve a particular task. (2) They have electrical components that power and control the machinery. (3) All robots must be able to sense their surroundings; a robot may have light sensors (eyes), touch and pressure sensors (hands), chemical sensors (nose), hearing and sonar sensors (ears), etc. (4) All robots contain some level of computer programming code. Programs are the core essence of a robot since they provide intelligence. There are three different types of robotic programs: remote control, artificial intelligence, and hybrid. Some robots are programmed to faithfully carry out specific actions over and over again (repetitive actions) without variation and with a high degree of accuracy. International Journal of Advanced Scientific and Technical Research ISSN 2249-9954 Available online on http://www.rspublication.com/ijst/index.html volume 15, No. 6, 2025 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18059043 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, [email protected] 288 Robotics is an interdisciplinary field that involves the design, construction, operation, and use of robots. It is a branch of engineering and computer sciences that includes the design and use of machines that are capable of performing programmed tasks without human involvement. The field develops machines that can efficiently carry out various tasks, can automate tasks, and do various jobs that a human might not be able to do. Robots could someday be our drivers, companions, collaborators, teachers, specialists, and exploration pioneers [4]. LOGISTICS ROBOTS The logistics industry is undergoing a massive transformation due to the rise of robotics and automation technology. Automation in logistics is synonymous with increased speed and accuracy. Robots handle tasks with increased precision, ensuring that goods are processed quickly and correctly. As businesses face increasing pressure to meet rising demand, improve efficiency, and overcome labor shortages, the adoption of robots in logistics has become a required step for companies looking to get ahead. Logistics robots automate the process of storing and moving goods as they make their way through the supply chain. They offer far greater levels of uptime over manual labor, leading to major productivity gains and profitability for those deploying logistics robots [5]. The boom in logistics robots responds to the need to reduce costs and optimize processes to improve competitiveness. Some logistics robots are shown in Figure 1 [6]. Figure 1: Some logistics robots [6]. International Journal of Advanced Scientific and Technical Research ISSN 2249-9954 Available online on http://www.rspublication.com/ijst/index.html volume 15, No. 6, 2025 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18059043 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, [email protected] 289 Robotics in logistics involves introducing automated methods that help organize and care for products from one phase to the next. Logistics robots are autonomous or semiautonomous machines designed to perform tasks related to the movement, storage, and handling of goods within a warehouse, distribution center, or other logistics environments. These machines are solving industry challenges, revolutionizing safety standards, boosting efficiency, and shaping the future of logistics with every task they undertake. TYPES OF LOGISTICS ROBOTS Logistics robots have been a game-changer in most industries, boosting productivity and efficiency. Different types of logistic robots are beneficial to the supply chain [7]. One example is picking robots. These machines are designed to automatically retrieve items from shelves or bins and deliver them to the warehouse operator, reducing the time and effort required to pick inventory manually. They are equipped with a vision system and arms to make it easy to pick and place items in the correct locations within the warehouse. They pick products from bins and place them for packaging or into containers. Such robots in logistics have a gripping element, allowing them to handle goods without errors. Other examples are Packaging Robots, Storage Robots, and Mobile Robots. Packaging robots are warehousing robots that can help ensure products and pallets are securely wrapped for transport and storage, providing consistent wrapping tension, all while reducing manual labor and material waste. Figure 2 shows a packaging robot [8]. Figure 2: A packaging robot [8]. On the other hand, Storage Robots are robot-aided systems that store and retrieve items from dense storage locations. These machines travel up and down the aisle in a warehouse, thus assisting in slotting and removing products from the racks. Cube storage robots, for example, can optimize space utilization and operational efficiency by managing densely packed inventory bins with high precision and speed. International Journal of Advanced Scientific and Technical Research ISSN 2249-9954 Available online on http://www.rspublication.com/ijst/index.html volume 15, No. 6, 2025 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18059043 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, [email protected] 290 Additionally, Mobile Robots, including Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), are designed to transport goods within warehouses. They can replace conveyors by following predetermined paths or navigate autonomously using advanced sensors and software, making them valuable for material handling and inventory management. These logistics robots are used for material transport within warehouses and factories. They are essential tools in a warehouse, with the main difference being the navigation system used. AMRs are equipped with AI to move items without human intervention. However, AGVs travel along a defined wire or laser-guided system when moving items within the warehouse. Figure 3 shows an automated mobile robot making a delivery in a city [9]. Moreover, robotic arms, collaborative robots, automated labeling robots, warehouse robots, and drones are also essential. Figure 3: Automated mobile robot making a delivery in a city [9]. Figure 4: Some robotic arms [9]. International Journal of Advanced Scientific and Technical Research ISSN 2249-9954 Available online on http://www.rspublication.com/ijst/index.html volume 15, No. 6, 2025 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18059043 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, [email protected] 291 Robotic Arms, also referred to as robotic manipulators or piece-picking robots, are equipped with multiple joints and end-effectors to handle a wide range of tasks. In logistics, robotic arms are used for tasks that require precision, such as picking, packing, and assembly. Robotic arms are finding increased utility for single picking from bins. Figure 4 shows some robotic arms [9]. Collaborative Robots, known as Cobots, are designed to work alongside human workers in a collaborative manner. These advanced robotic systems work alongside humans in a warehouse, performing tasks such as picking and packing. Cobots are designed for close human interaction, handling tasks that require frequent adaptation. Most have Cobot sensors and safety features, such as force and power limits. Moreover, Automated Labeling Robots help the operators automatically label products in a warehouse, ensuring precision applicators are put in the desired spot every time. The robots have sensors and cameras to ensure everything runs smoothly in the warehouse. They can help warehouse operators automatically place the label in the right spot on the package. Unlike automated labeling robots, Warehouse Robotics refers to the use of robotic technology and automation systems in a warehouse or distribution center to perform various tasks related to the movement, organization, and management of goods and materials. These robots and automation systems are designed to streamline and optimize warehouse operations, improving efficiency, accuracy, and productivity. The robots are proving their worth in high-speed warehouse operations by boosting productivity, keeping your employees safe, and optimizing space in your facility. Figure 5 shows warehouse robots [10]. Figure 5: Warehouse robots [10]. The last most common logistics robots are Drones. These flying robots are being tested for last-mile delivery, inventory scans, and warehouse surveillance. They crush inventory International Journal of Advanced Scientific and Technical Research ISSN 2249-9954 Available online on http://www.rspublication.com/ijst/index.html volume 15, No. 6, 2025 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18059043 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, [email protected] 292 tracking by scanning barcodes and RFID tags from above, finishing in minutes what takes human workers hours. They are also awesome for remote deliveries, especially in rural areas. Drones and autonomous delivery vehicles are cutting through chaos to make lastmile logistics faster, cheaper, and less frustrating. As well as transporting goods, drones are an effective way of delivering medicines to customers. Used for rapid delivery, drones can access rugged terrain and perform aerial inventory monitoring. Figure 6 shows a typical delivery drone [11]. Figure 6: Atypical delivery drone [11]. APPLICATIONS OF LOGISTICS ROBOTS One example of logistics automation is the use of automated guided vehicles (AGVs) in transportation and warehouse facilities. AGVs are critical in streamlining your supply chain and reducing the logistics costs [12]. There are several industries in which logistics robots play different roles. For example, the e-Commerce industry is the most visible user of logistics robots. With the massive increase in online shopping, companies like Amazon, Alibaba, and JD.com rely heavily on logistics robots to manage their fulfillment centers. Robots in e-commerce are used for tasks such as order picking, packing, sorting, and even last-mile delivery. As e-commerce grows, labor costs rise, and shipping speeds accelerate, companies that still rely on manual processes will be left behind. Another prominent industry in which logistics robots are commonly used is another prominent industry in which logistics robots are commonly used is the Manufacturing industry. In the manufacturing sector, logistics robots play a critical role in material International Journal of Advanced Scientific and Technical Research ISSN 2249-9954 Available online on http://www.rspublication.com/ijst/index.html volume 15, No. 6, 2025 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18059043 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, [email protected] 293 handling, assembly line operations, and inventory management. Automotive manufacturers, for instance, use automated guided vehicles (AGVs) to transport heavy parts across the production floor, reducing the time and labor required for these tasks. AGVs are ideal for moving raw materials or finished goods between different stages of the production line. Additionally, in the Retail Industry, logistics robots are increasingly being adopted to optimize supply chains and distribution networks. In distribution centers, robots pick and pack products, manage inventory, and ensure goods are delivered to stores or customers in a timely manner. Walmart, for example, uses robotics in its distribution centers to handle repetitive tasks, allowing human workers to focus on more complex activities. Amazon is the best example of a company that has successfully integrated robots into its supply chain management. The giant company employs over 200,000 robots alongside human employees to assist with picking, packaging, and shipping. Figure 7 shows some Amazon robots [13]. Figure 7: Some Amazon robots [13]. Logistics robots are also crucial in Healthcare, Agriculture, and Transportation. Healthcare providers, such as hospitals, can benefit from mobile logistics robots. Hospitals and medical facilities use robots to transport medications, medical supplies, and even patient meals. These robots help reduce the burden on healthcare staff, allowing them to focus more on patient care. In agriculture, logistics robots are being used to automate tasks such as planting, harvesting, and transporting crops. In the agricultural sector, farmers have begun using mobile logistics robots to maintain, measure, and harvest fresh crops. These robots help farmers increase productivity and manage their fields more effectively. International Journal of Advanced Scientific and Technical Research ISSN 2249-9954 Available online on http://www.rspublication.com/ijst/index.html volume 15, No. 6, 2025 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18059043 Original Article ©2025 RS Publication, [email protected] 294 For example, drones are used for monitoring crop health and even distributing seeds or fertilizers. Whereas Transportation involves moving goods from point A to point B within warehouses and manufacturing plants, facilitated by robots such as cube storage robots, AGVs, and AMRs. These robots reduce the need for static conveyors and manual labor, and streamline internal logistics for transporting items from one point to another. Drones can transport and deliver customer orders by air. Especially in last-mile logistics, robots can handle autonomous delivery, and drones can bring items directly to the customer’s doorstep. This function is particularly beneficial for urgent or small deliveries in urban areas, improving the efficiency of the final delivery step. Lastly, logistics assist in Inventory Management and Robotic Process Automation (RPA). Automation is a game-changer for inventory management, providing accurate tracking, real-time visibility into stock levels, and reducing the risk of human error. Robots in warehousing are ideal for managing inventories, ensuring safety, and better control. They allow businesses to identify discrepancies and adjust inventory levels quickly. Poor inventory management is one of the most significant risks in most companies and can lead to shipping errors and incorrect stock levels. Guessing inventory levels is a terrible business strategy. Warehouses that still rely on manual stock checks are basically playing hide-and-seek with their own products. Autonomous robots are ending this by tracking inventory in real time with near-perfect accuracy. Instead of shutting down operations for manual inventory checks, robots handle them in the background. However, in Robotic Process Automation, logistics robots can streamline administrative tasks such as data entry, order processing, and inventory tracking. By automating these back-office functions, you can free up resources for more strategic tasks. BENEFITS Automation is what drives growth in most companies. Most organizations are considering implementing automated solutions in their companies to increase agility and productivity. Robots increase speed, reduce errors, and handle repetitive or strenuous tasks, freeing human workers for more complex roles. They make work easy and efficient by reducing the workload among your staff and ensuring there is no room for errors. Robots do not get tired and they do not make sloppy mistakes. Other benefits of logistics robots include automation, sustainability, integration, order shipment facilitation, flexibility, cost reduction, error reduction, scalability and predictive maintenance [7,12]: Automation is the backbone of modern logistics operations. One of the primary roles of robots in logistics is automating repetitive tasks that can become demotivating for human workers when performed for extended periods. These robots tirelessly execute these tasks with precision and consistency, enhancing overall productivity. Instead of massive upfront costs, companies can lease automation for a fraction of the price. Additionally, the use of logistics robots assists in achieving Sustainability. The ideal way to achieve your