The global use of material handling equipment is growing rapidly due to growth in eCommerce markets, and this requires a huge increase in recruitment. To reduce the costs of this, businesses are turning to solutions that offer automated material handling equipment, as opposed to hiring more staff.
Third Wave Automation produces 'shared autonomy' forklifts that are controlled in mass fleets by a remote operator. Whilst its core aim is to optimize workflows in warehouses and reduce employment costs, the company also believes that its AI-forklifts will reduce forklift-related workplace injuries in the US.
Third Wave Automation claims that competitors automate only a fraction of the functionality of a forklift, unable to complete tasks such as reaching high places. The company has integrated artificial intelligence and machine learning to their forklifts, aiming to eventually remove the human remote-controller all together, and has secured impressive funds that will enable it to accelerate innovation, expand its pilot program, and strive towards new solutions for automating other classes of forklifts.
Kirsty
Company Specialist at Welcome to the Jungle