Warehouse automation company Pickommerce has raised $3.4million to fund the PickoBot, a piece-picking robot that uses an advanced computer vision system to intelligently pack varying objects.
As automation machinery becomes more advanced and continues to reduce its cost and complexity, warehouses and fulfillment centres across the world are becoming more and more automised. Many still rely, however, on the dexterity and decision-making skills of human pickers. A recent study by CILT International suggests that more than 80% of organisations experience regular staff shortages due to high turnover, with knock-on impacts on lost revenue.
Pickommerce is an Israeli start-up from Ben-Gurion University, that aims to complete the automation circle, enabling fully autonomous warehouses. The company’s piece-picking robot, PickoBot, combines advanced computer vision with machine learning and multiple gripping methods, to provide an autonomous picking and packing solution across various industries. Fitted with vacuum-, finger- and adhesive-based gripping abilities, PickoBot’s AI-enabled algorithm decides which gripper / grasp combination to use depending on the size, weight and texture of the item in question.
“In an industry where manual picking still overwhelmingly dominates the process, this solution is poised to redefine standards and drive a new era that’s more agile, responsive and cost-effective. Booming demand for Pickommerce’s technology shows that the company’s solutions cater to an urgent and essential market need,” said Yoni Heilbroom, managing partner of IL Ventures, who led a recent funding round into Pickommerce.
Fruit picking with aplomb
Vision-enhanced picking robots like PickoBot represent a superior alternative to human workers across a wide range of industries such as e-commerce, pharmaceutical, retail and agriculture. During a recent installation at Havivian Farm, for example, the PickoBot was able to combine its software and multiple gripping solutions to apply the soft but precise touch that was required.
“Quality is at the core of everything we do. We are committed to ensuring our customers receive the freshest, highest-quality goods,” said Boaz Havivian, owner of Havivian Farms. “Pickommerce has been integral to this process. Their PickoBot enables us to efficiently handle and pack our produce for shipment, ensuring it reaches customers in perfect condition,” said the owner of the organic farm, who turned to Pickommerce and PickoBot to reduce its operational costs with automation on its high-volume packing line.
Investment in automation
A funding round led by IL Ventures and including other logistics-sector investors raised $3.4million for Pickommerce to continue the development of the PickoBot, as well as to advance the production and marketing of the robot. “Pickommerce is disrupting the logistics industry by delivering advanced solutions that streamline automation operations,” said Heilbroom.
“We appreciate the commitment from our investors, customers and partners and we are seeing significant market demand for PickoBot. We are pushing the boundaries of the industry by offering unmatched flexibility with the PickoBot’s diverse gripping abilities. This is achieved through the seamless integration of advanced computer vision, a highly optimised packing algorithm and AI-powered decision-making,” said Pickommerce CEO and co-founder Kfir Nissim.
