Sustainable Warehouse Optimization: Integrating Industrial Design and IoT

Abstract

This paper examines an industrial design project aimed at optimizing the warehouse operations in a food manufacturing plant. A diverse team of experts from various fields collaborated in this project, with the industrial designer playing a pivotal role in the product design process. The problem under investigation in this paper is the need to streamline the complex and time-consuming process of tracking, organizing, and locating product pallets in the factory's storage unit. To address this challenge, an integrated and comprehensive system was implemented in the warehouse, requiring seamless synchronization of multi-purpose devices. Harnessing the power of Internet of Things (IoT) technology was the chosen approach. The proposed solution involves the implementation of an Indoor Positioning System (IPS). IPS accurately locates individuals or objects indoors, where traditional GPS and satellite-based technologies often lack precision. This approach was successfully executed within the warehouse, where devices and products work in harmony toward a common goal. These changes result in improved inventory management, reporting on sales and production needs, and more efficient operations. It also simplifies the task of finding empty spaces for forklift drivers, reducing time wastage and enhancing overall factory and warehouse performance. This project not only aids in optimizing the warehouse section but also contributes to enhancing the overall performance and productivity of the factory.

Keywords: IoT, Industrial Design, IPS, Sustainability, Integrated Design

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1004545