Background

With the growing demand for fast shipping and easy returns, e-commerce logistics have become more complex than ever. To keep up, warehouses increasingly rely on robotic automation to enhance efficiency and meet customer expectations.

At Berkshire Grey, I worked on both the Mobile and Picking robotic teams, contributing to the development of advanced automation solutions tailored to different warehouse operations.

Mobile Robotics

Mobile Robotics leverage AI, machine learning, and sensors to manage fleets of autonomous robots that enhance warehouse operations, including order picking and inventory management.

Designing the Next Gen HMI

As part of the Mobile Robotics team, I led the UX and UI design efforts to create an intuitive, efficient user experience for operating and monitoring large fleets of AI-enabled robots on Berkshire Grey’s Next Generation Mobile Robotic Platform, BG Flex

(Pictures from UX Design Awards)

My involvement with the Next Generation HMI included everything from conducting user research and drafting product requirements to creating interactive mockups and even pushing code changes.

Additionally I created and maintained the new design system as well as all feature workflow documentation.

In addition to designing the BG Flex HMI, I developed user interfaces for workflows such as the maintenance page and map editor, while continuously improving the existing HMI through iterative updates.

Due to the complex nature of the system, best practices from The High Performance HMI Handbook were followed.

This included designing for the various levels of interaction required by users.

• Level 1 - Process Area Overview: The main overview display focuses on important items while displaying alarms and alerts in a cogent and easily determinable manner.

• Level 2 - Process Unit Control: Sub-processes, variables, and control manipulation for reactions.

• Level 3 - Process Unit Detail: Further detailed examination. Individual machine controls, specific alarm displays, and information details.

• Level 4 - Process Unit Support and Diagnostic Display: Troubleshooting information, possibly P&ID, and anything else that is not important for operation but necessary for maintenance and management.

Picking Robotics

Picking Robotics include picking arms, put walls, and package sortation platforms. Together, these technologies automate costly processes for fulfilling customer orders and stocking shelves, significantly reducing cost and time.

Design Technologist

As part of the Picking Robotics team, I worked as a Design Technologist, bridging both design and development tasks.

I worked as a full-stack developer, using React and Python within a broader ROS (Robot Operating System) framework to ensure seamless functionality and deliver an optimal user experience.

My responsibilities included designing new screens to support customer-requested workflows, as well as fixing bugs and implementing updates across various HMIs for BG's diverse customer base, each with unique requirements.

Conclusion

I gained significant experience during my time at Berkshire Grey. As the sole designer on the Mobile team, I was allowed to tackle a diverse range of tasks giving me valuable hands-on experience with each step of the design process.

When I transitioned to the Picking Robotics team, I had the chance to further broaden my skillset by diving deeper into development, expanding my role beyond design into coding and technical implementation. This experience greatly enhanced my understanding of both design and development workflows.