Brightpick Goods-to-Person Robots: Infrastructure-Free Warehouse Automation

Technology Overview

Brightpick's Goods-to-Person (G2P) robot system offers a flexible approach to automating order fulfillment in warehouses. Designed to address the needs of modern e-commerce operations with high volumes and extensive SKU variety, this solution distinguishes itself by operating without the need for fixed infrastructure. Unlike traditional automated storage and retrieval systems that require dedicated grids, rails, or extensive conveyor networks, Brightpick robots work within standard warehouse shelving using common storage totes. This makes them particularly suitable for integration into existing fulfillment centers seeking to enhance productivity without undergoing major structural renovations.

How It Works

Core Principles

The core principle of the Brightpick G2P system is to bring storage totes directly to a human picker at a workstation using autonomous mobile robots. The system is designed for high-density storage and efficient retrieval within a standard racking environment.

Key Features & Capabilities

Infrastructure-Free Operation: The most defining feature is the system's independence from fixed infrastructure. It does not require the installation of dedicated grids (like cube storage), overhead rails (like some shuttle systems), or extensive conveyor networks. This significantly reduces the physical footprint and complexity of the automation system itself.

Compatibility with Standard Equipment: The robots are designed to interact with standard, off-the-shelf warehouse shelving and plastic totes. This eliminates the need for costly custom storage furniture and allows warehouses to utilize their existing storage assets or source compatible ones easily.

Rapid Deployment and Integration: Due to the minimal physical installation requirements, the system can be deployed much faster than fixed-infrastructure alternatives. It can be integrated into live operations with minimal disruption, making it an attractive option for warehouses that cannot afford prolonged downtime.

Advantages & Benefits

Implementation Flexibility and Lower Upfront Cost: By eliminating the need for major construction or installation of fixed steel structures, the system lowers the barrier to automation. It offers a more accessible automation path, especially for facilities in leased buildings or those with space constraints.

Enhanced Operational Adaptability: The ability to work within standard shelving and around existing layouts (including mezzanines) provides exceptional flexibility. Warehouse layouts can be more easily reconfigured in the future if business needs change, as the robots are not tied to a permanent physical grid.

Reduced Operational Risk: Fast deployment and easy integration mean businesses can start realizing the benefits of automation—such as increased pick rates and reduced walk time—sooner, with less initial operational disruption.

Use Cases & Applications

Ideal For

This technology is ideal for e-commerce and omnichannel fulfillment centers that manage a wide array of SKUs and require a flexible automation solution that can be implemented quickly without significant facility alterations.

Performance Metrics

• Designed Picking Rate: 450 picks per hour with one picking station (as per system design)
• Storage Capacity (Example): Approximately 18,000 totes in the referenced case study
• SKU Support (Example): Designed to handle warehouses with around 60,000 SKUs