The SupplyChainBrain Podcast

Craig Hattabaugh, Vice President at Berkshire Gray, and Ellen Bruhn, VP of Product Management at AutoStore, delve into the past, present, and future of warehouse technology. They discuss the evolution from conveyor systems to advanced robotics and automation. The duo explores how these innovations impact workforce roles, shifting tasks towards higher-skilled positions. They predict a future influenced by AI in decision-making and seamless human-robot collaboration. Ellen also shares insights on AutoStore's Carousel AI, promising enhanced picking accuracy and efficiency in fulfillment.

Jim de Vries, founder of Enhance International Group and project manager for the MXD Trustworthy Supply Chain Transparency Survey, discusses the critical need for transparency in defense supply chains. He highlights how the origins of raw materials and reliance on foreign suppliers, especially from China, compromise trust. The conversation delves into the hidden complexities of tier-two suppliers and the challenges posed by the lack of electronic records. Jim invites manufacturers to participate in the survey, emphasizing its benefits and the importance of maintaining an ongoing trust acceleration index.

If you’ve been paying attention to the tech news in the several years, you might have acquired the impression that artificial intelligence is on a steady unstoppable climb.

Curtis Spencer, CEO of Bloodhound Tracking Device, Inc., discusses the pressing issues of cargo theft and innovative security solutions. He highlights the digital gaps in supply chain security and the growing adoption of tracking technologies. Curtis shares insights on the importance of real-time alerts, tamper detection, and the complexities of reefer tracking. He emphasizes the need for AI-driven insights for better routing and warns about the vulnerabilities of autonomous trucks. Overall, he conveys an urgent message about combating theft in an evolving landscape.

Marcel Graus, an inventory management expert at DSV, discusses the groundbreaking implementation of autonomous inventory counting for clients like Scholl. He highlights the challenges of the traditional manual wall-to-wall inventory process and explains how integrating drones and a digital twin platform has revolutionized their operations. This tech not only slashes downtime and labor costs but also boosts accuracy to an impressive 99.99%. Marcel also touches on the future of logistics and how intelligent systems enhance supply chain resilience.

On this bonus episode of The SupplyChainBrain Podcast, SupplyChainBrain editor-in-chief Bob Bowman speaks with Mario Cordero, chief executive officer of the Port of Long Beach. 

In this engaging talk, Norm Sains, a partner and managing director at St. Ange Company with a focus on supply chain engineering, shares insights on warehouse efficiency. He reveals that 80% of U.S. warehouses still rely on manual processes, emphasizing effective strategies beyond automation. Norm discusses optimizing receiving and put-away processes, maximizing labor savings through better slotting techniques, and the importance of ergonomics in packing. He also highlights innovative approaches to task interleaving, replenishment, and storage density, advocating for smart, cost-effective improvements.

Is the U.S. about to experience a manufacturing renaissance?

The plight of ethnic Uyghurs in China runs much deeper than it might appear at first glance.

Vernon O'Donnell, CEO of Voxel and an expert in AI-based workplace safety, dives into the pressing issue of safety in logistics environments. He discusses the role of computer vision in real-time risk detection and injury prevention. O'Donnell highlights the challenges of integrating advanced technology amidst high employee turnover. He also addresses worker skepticism toward AI monitoring, advocating for its benefits in creating a safer work culture. Balancing safety with productivity remains a focal point, as companies can enhance both with smart solutions.