ek robotics Integration Partner: Efficiency in logistics

In modern intralogistics, the hardware from ek robotics is known for its reliability and precision. But simply purchasing a vehicle does not solve process problems. This is where werob comes in as a hardware-agnostic system integrator. We do not view robotics in isolation, but as part of an overall system that consists of hardware, infrastructure, software interfaces and regulatory requirements. While a classic OEM reseller often only represents a specific product portfolio, over 44 OEM partners rank against the individual requirements of the operator.

This approach prevents the so-called vendor lock-in. If a other system is better suited for a specific task in your warehouse than a model from ek robotics, our Supplier Match will show this transparently. With over 200 robots in live operation in 11 European countries, werob has the necessary experience to translate complex logistics workflows into reliable technical specifications. We are the operational level that ensures that investing in automation actually results in measurable relief rather than creating new complexity in the IT department.

Traditional robotics consulting projects often last three to six months before the first hardware is ordered. During this time, countless Discovery decks will be created without driving a single meter autonomously. werob breaks down this process with the Spec Engine. Within just 48 hours, we translate the verbal descriptions of your shift processes, ground conditions and transport tasks into a digital action graph. This engine has been trained on over 35,000 projects and delivers a precise specification that immediately serves as the basis for the offer.

For a logistics manager, this means a massive time saving. Instead of writing specifications manually, werob provides a validated technical roadmap. This speed continues throughout the entire process: a binding offer is available five days after the specification and the robot is in use on the site within eight weeks. This focus on speed is crucial in order to be able to react to short-term market changes or acute staff shortages. We do not deliver concepts, but usable systems.

A critical bottleneck when introducing ek robotics systems is the connection to the existing warehouse management system (WMS) or enterprise resource planning (ERP). Without deep integration, the robot remains an isolated solution that has to be fed with data manually. werob solves this problem with prefabricated connectors. We offer direct interfaces to systems such as SAP EWM, which enable real-time communication between warehouse management and the robot fleet. This includes automatic order transmission, status feedback and inventory updates without human intervention.

In addition to SAP EWM, we support a variety of other platforms such as Microsoft Dynamics or specialized logistics software. This connectivity ensures that ek robotics robots immediately become part of the digital ecosystem. The advantage for the operator's IT department is immense: instead of commissioning expensive and maintenance-intensive in-house developments for the API connection, they use werob's stable connectors that have already been proven in the field. This significantly reduces project risk and accelerates the return on investment.

Automation has to pay off. In logistics, we see significant savings potential through the use of autonomous systems that go far beyond simply reducing labor costs. A concrete example from our portfolio is the yard patrol and the outdoor transport, where an annual cost reduction of 68,000 euros per location can be achieved. These numbers are based on real operational data and take into account factors such as increased throughput speeds, reduction of transport damage and optimization of shift planning.

Werob's commercial model is consistently geared towards the success of the customer: outcome-only. This means that the operator only pays when the robot actually runs and delivers the specified performance. There are no hidden list prices or high upfront investments for hardware that ultimately doesn't fit into the process. Through the combination of efficient hardware from partners such as ek robotics and the werob integration platform, automation becomes a calculable operational factor that directly improves the margin.

An often underestimated aspect when integrating robotics is the regulatory framework. From January 20, 2027, the new EU Machinery Regulation 2023/1230 will be binding. This places stricter requirements on conformity assessment, especially when systems from different manufacturers are combined or deeply integrated into existing systems. werob offers a built-in compliance path here. We take responsibility for ensuring that the entire installation - including the ek robotics hardware - complies with the current European security standards.

This includes not only physical security in accordance with standards such as ISO 13482 for service robots, but also cybersecurity in accordance with IEC 62443. In a networked logistics environment, protection against unauthorized access to the robot fleet is important business critical. The werob Cockpit monitors these compliance parameters in real time via a four-dimensional traffic light system. This gives operators the security that their fleet not only operates efficiently, but is also legally compliant and protected from digital threats. We act as a protective shield against regulatory risks.

As soon as the robots from ek robotics are in use, the permanent monitoring phase begins. The werob Cockpit is the central control unit for fleet management. It provides a real-time overview of all active units, regardless of manufacturer. The system uses an intuitive traffic light system to indicate status in four critical areas: hardware health, infrastructure connectivity, regulatory compliance and compliance with specification. If a deviation occurs, the operator is informed immediately, even before the process comes to a standstill.

This transparency is the prerequisite for stable 24/7 operation. The cockpit also provides valuable data for continuous process optimization. By analyzing movement data and order times, bottlenecks in the warehouse can be identified and eliminated. werob ensures that data sovereignty remains with the operator, while we ensure technical monitoring in the background. This turns a fleet of individual devices into an intelligent, controllable overall system that can be flexibly adapted to changing logistics requirements.

Companies are often faced with the choice of managing the integration of ek robotics systems themselves or commissioning a specialized partner like werob. The following table illustrates the differences in terms of time expenditure, risk and cost structure.

The comparison clearly shows that the werob approach minimizes operational risk. While with direct purchase the responsibility for the interaction of software and hardware lies with the customer, werob takes on the role of general contractor for the entire workflow. This is particularly crucial for companies that do not want to set up their own highly specialized robotics department, but still want to benefit from the advantages of automation.

The process with werob is designed for maximum speed and minimal strain on your resources. It all starts with a simple 8-step intake process. You describe your workflow, the shift models and the spatial conditions to us. Our spec engine creates a detailed specification within 48 hours. After the supplier match, in which we check the appropriate ek robotics models or alternatives against your requirements, you will receive a binding offer within five days.

As soon as the decision has been made, the eight-week implementation phase begins. During this time we prepare the connectors, configure the cockpit and ensure regulatory compliance. At the end of these eight weeks there is a system that works productively and delivers measurable added value. Since we work according to the outcome-only principle, our incentive is directly linked to your success. We ensure that the technology works so that you can concentrate on your core logistics business. Start your spec today and experience how quickly automation can be achieved.