ArcBest Introduces Vaux Technology Innovations
ArcBest (Nasdaq: ARCB), a prominent integrated logistics company, has unveiled its latest technology offering, Vaux Vision™, currently in pilot testing. This innovative solution transforms traditional forklifts into intelligent mobile dimensioners, significantly enhancing material handling efficiency.
Alongside Vaux Vision, ArcBest has made substantial upgrades to its existing offerings within the Vaux Technology Suite, including the Vaux Freight Movement System™ and Vaux Smart Autonomy™, thus improving their overall effectiveness for clients spanning various sectors.
About Vaux Vision
Vaux Vision is a cutting-edge 3D perception technology aimed at optimizing material handling processes. It delivers precise, real-time freight measurements and insights directly on the forklift. Through strategically placed sensors, operators can quickly capture dimensions, images, and shipment insights while in motion, identifying potential revenue opportunities and improving operational efficiencies.
Operators receive immediate feedback on a tablet, with all data stored in a secure cloud environment. Vaux Vision is compatible with freight of diverse shapes and sizes, extending beyond standard pallets to accommodate various operational needs.
This advanced technology is National Type Evaluation Program (NTEP) certified and features a user-friendly touch screen display coupled with barcode scanning capabilities. Its seamless integration with Vaux OS and existing weight scales enhances its functionality. Key features include:
- Capturing images of freight during loading and unloading for enhanced visibility.
- Utilizing AI to assess characteristics like damage, HazMat status, and fragility.
- Tracking piece IDs or pallet barcodes for easier management.
“Our commitment to continuous innovation is evident as we strive to enhance Vaux's value,” shared Dennis Anderson, chief innovation officer at ArcBest. “While accurate freight dimensions are crucial, many conventional dimensioners are expensive and cumbersome for numerous businesses. Vaux Vision presents a more accessible and efficient solution. The pilot phase will yield valuable insights, helping us refine the technology and maximize its benefits.”
Enhancements to Existing Vaux Technology
In addition to launching Vaux Vision, ArcBest is excited to announce various updates to its previously released solutions. These enhancements were directly influenced by customer feedback and are designed to offer more equipment options as well as performance improvements.
New Equipment Options for Vaux Freight Movement System
The Vaux Freight Movement System represents the initial step in the expansion of the Vaux Technology Suite, revolutionizing material handling processes by rethinking the loading and unloading of trailers. With the Vaux MP, freight is loaded outside the trailer and entered effortlessly using a standard forklift with an MP Coupler. This efficient method allows for swift unloading, bringing entire loads to optimal locations in warehouses with ease. The Vaux MP comes with customizable decking that accommodates various shipping needs while supporting eco-friendly logistics.
New additions to the Vaux Freight Movement System include:
- An MP decking system that enables stacking options for typically unstackable freight, including valuable equipment for data centers.
- Roller Deck MPs specifically designed for air cargo ULD containers in 26-foot and 10-foot sizes.
- An Automotive Hauler option that accommodates up to four vehicles on a standard trailer.
- A Max Width MP for handling larger shipments and a dedicated 17-foot MP designed for tight spaces.
Updates to Vaux Smart Autonomy
Following the successful launch of the Vaux MP, ArcBest introduced Vaux Smart Autonomy, designed to bolster safety and efficiency in material management while addressing challenges related to labor shortages. These systems combine autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) with advanced fleet management software and teleoperation capabilities. This synergy facilitates automated material handling while retaining human oversight for tasks requiring personal intervention, leading to safer and more efficient operational environments.
Improvements have also been made to the 5K counterbalance forklifts under the Vaux Smart Autonomy label, which can now manage the complexities associated with loading and unloading trailers, including handling double-stacked freight.
Additional support under this technology includes:
- Autonomous management of oversized freight beyond standard pallets.
- Capabilities for bulk stacking and gravity feeds.
- Efficient movement of automotive racks and managing replenishment processes.
- Seamless trailer loading and unloading operations, helping streamline workflows.
Experiences gathered from customer environments have accelerated advancements in Vaux capabilities, significantly increasing the number of autonomous missions completed in recent months. Moreover, the company’s Innovation Warehouse serves as an essential platform for R&D, enabling teams to rapidly prototype and test new solutions in environments that reflect the diverse settings of their actual operators.
“Early adopters have enjoyed notable enhancements in productivity while decreasing damage costs and emissions,” Anderson added. “We anticipate that these updates will further empower our customers to optimize workflows and achieve operational excellence. Our team is already engaged in developing the next generation of technology tailored to meet customer requirements.”
About ArcBest
ArcBest (Nasdaq: ARCB) is a leading integrated logistics provider, facilitating smooth operations across the global supply chain. Founded in 1923 with a workforce of 14,000 employees across 250 service locations, ArcBest harnesses its extensive resources to deliver transportation solutions in air, ground, and ocean logistics, alongside fully managed supply chain options. With a deep-rooted history of innovation and a dedication to customer service, ArcBest continues to develop groundbreaking technologies like Vaux™, recognized as one of the TIME Best Inventions of 2023.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Vaux Vision?
Vaux Vision is a 3D perception technology that improves material handling by providing real-time freight measurements and insights directly from the forklift.
What does Vaux Smart Autonomy do?
It combines autonomous mobile robots with teleoperation capabilities to automate material handling, ensuring safety while streamlining operations.
How does ArcBest ensure continuous innovation?
ArcBest maintains a culture of innovation, driven by customer feedback and aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of its technology solutions.
What are the benefits of the Vaux Freight Movement System?
The system simplifies the loading and unloading of trailers, reducing the time and labor associated with traditional methods and enhancing efficiency.
How does ArcBest’s technology suite affect sustainability?
By optimizing shipping logistics and reducing the number of trucks needed on the road, ArcBest's solutions contribute positively to environmental sustainability metrics.
