For some time, mezzanine systems have been the go-to solutions for increasing warehouse storage space. These systems also make better offices where managers and other personnel can monitor the operations. The rapid logistics industry changes would make mezzanine systems obsolete before a warehouse breaks even. It is crucial for warehouse managers, operators and employees to learn what awaits them in the future and prepare accordingly.
Here are the top five trends and predictions anticipated to change the future of industrial mezzanine systems:
- Mobile Mezzanine Storage
There are mobile racks for warehouses that want to make the most of the available storage space. These systems are ideal for smaller warehouses that lack the extra expansion space. Similarly, future mezzanine floors would borrow the same concept to maximize storage efficiency. Adjustable warehouse shelving manufacturers would build mezzanine beams with rollers or wheels to glide over flushed tracks. Such a storage unit would be adaptable for various uses, including a cost-effective relocation.
- Internet of Things (IoT) Transparent Logistics
Inventory visibility is a priority for warehouses to identify gaps and maximize storage capacity. Customers also expect transparency in goods tracking to guarantee safety. Mezzanine systems in future will prioritize inventory in real-time through the Internet of Things (IoT) technology. IoT will ensure a birds-eye view of inventory and capacity instantly. This allows data transfer with other connected systems like sensors and trackers.
- Mobile Robot Solutions
Modern industrial mezzanine systems are compatible with conveyor belts to simplify the movement of materials in warehouses and distribution centres. Although this is seen as an innovative approach, it is rapidly being phased out by newer technology. Mobile robotic solutions are now replacing fixed mezzanine conveyor systems to streamline operations. These robots maximize space and can reach products easily in locations the conveyor systems cannot reach.
- Biometric Access
Industrial mezzanine systems are used for storage and as offices for managers and other personnel. Securing these systems is a priority from the get-go. In future, mezzanine floors will feature robust security features for authorized access. Some of the features to anticipate include biometric systems for safe access. These include face and fingerprint scanners programmable in the warehouse to give access to respective individuals.
- Cobots and Automation
Cobots are increasingly becoming popular in warehouses to minimize human interaction. The difference between cobots and actual robots is that they require human input. They allow adjustable warehouse shelving to use a few employees. Cobots and automation systems simplify loading and unloading goods in storage. These robots and picking machines can retrieve inventory and place them on a chute or conveyor to the ground floor.
The cobots also have sensors and RFID scanners to directly select items in storage without an operator manually searching for them. Once the ID or code of the item is typed into a warehouse system interface, the cobots and automatic systems will only have to pick them.
Mezzanine floors are simple and easy to install in any industrial or warehouse setup. They are also configurable to allow different attachments for securing the structure and simplifying loading and unloading processes. The future looks great for material handling in line with the trends mentioned here.
