Automated Logistics

The use of technology to streamline how goods are stored, moved, and managed throughout a supply chain. It integrates systems such as robots, sensors, conveyor networks, autonomous vehicles, and inventory-tracking software to reduce manual work and improve efficiency. These technologies allow warehouses to sort items, track product locations, and coordinate shipments with speed and accuracy. Data from scanners, RFID tags, and sensors helps machines make real-time decisions about routing and inventory levels. Automated logistics supports industries like retail, manufacturing, and delivery services, enabling smoother operations and creating flexible systems that can adapt to changing demands.

Tech Kits

Tech Kits are part of the walk-in service provided by Innovate Labs. There are three levels of difficulty meant for different users and their experience with the different technologies. Many of the Tech Kits build off each other as you progress.

Beginner

Automation Technology with VEX Workcell

Length: 30 Minutes

Description: This tech kit introduces users to the VEX Workcell, which is a robotic arm and conveyor belt system that can be programmed to perform different tasks. In this tech kit users will use a marker attached to the robotic arm and, using the coordinates system, draw out a line.

Intermediate

Transporting Objects Using the V5 Optical Sensor

Length: 45 Minutes

Description: This tech kit introduces users to transporting objects with the robotic arm, as well as using optical sensors to detect certain objects. In this tech kit users will program the robotic arm to pick up a blue or red disk, the robotic arm will then hold the object in front of an optical sensor to determine the color of the object, and depending on the color will place it into a certain drop-off point.

Advanced

Conveyor System Automation

Length: 60 Minutes

Description: This tech kit incorporates all of the systems and sensors of the VEX Workcell. Users will pass green and red discs along the conveyor belt, programming the Workcell to identify the colored disks, discarding the red disks, and using the robotic arm to pick up and move the green disk.

Projects

Resources

VEX Workcell

VEX Workcell

Type: Hardware

Description: Alongside VEXcode software, this construction system creates a 5-axis robotic arm with conveyors and sensors.

VEXcode V5

Type: Software

Description:VEXcode V5 is the coding environment for programming the VEX V5 Robot.