Automation with Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs)

An Automated Extension for Manual Processes

More and more companies have recognized that the only way to achieve additional increases in productivity and cost savings is by automating and interlinking material handling processes. While production companies have invested a lot of resources in the automation of their production processes to increase productivity over the past few years, logistics processes and material transports are often still being performed manually.  Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) present an ideal first step into automation but they also serve to supplement semi-automated subsystems in logistics and production. By integrating AGVs, a company is given the opportunity to adjust processes within manual or semi-automated systems to a new framework. Consequently, these processes can be retrofitted to modified customer needs or to a new market situation.

Incorporating AGVs within Integrated Solutions

Thanks to the partnership with DS AUTOMOTION, SSI SCHAEFER has further expanded its range of AGVs and offers integrated solutions for a wide variety of applications and industries.

Expanding Automation Capabilities of Existing Systems

Tried and true standard products from SSI SCHAEFER, such as static racks or semi-automated solutions such as the SSI LOGIMAT® vertical lift module, are easily expandable with an AGV. Standard interfaces between systems allow for seamless integration of AGVs. Everything from simple transport applications and point-to-point transport to the goods-to-person principle and full automation in an integrated and networked complete system, and a smooth operation. AGVs are solutions that quickly pay for themselves. Considering the battle for resources and the increasing cost pressure even in countries that have traditionally been low-wage alternatives, AGVs represent an economically beneficial and reliable solution. Companies benefit from consistent system performances by utilizing AGVs. This is essential for maintaining on-time deliveries.

The following storage systems are ideal for incorporating AGVs:

Compact Channel Storage with SSI Orbiter for Heavy Loads Carriers

Channel storage is a cost-efficient pallet storage solution for high level space utilization. Intelligent SSI Orbiter channel vehicles assume the task of storing and retrieving storage units in channels. This system can only access the front-loading unit in each channel. As such, it represents an ideal solution for a small variety of items in large volumes, such as in the beverage or food industry, but also in shipment zone provisioning. A forklift places the SSI Orbiter and the docking station in the patented centering console of the desired rack channel. By using an AGV for heavy load carriers (i.e. the SSI Heavy Load AGVs, such as Reach Truck) as a forklift, servicing heavy load carriers and implementing the SSI Orbiter can be fully automated.

Automating Mobile Racks for Pallets to Customer Specifications and Networking them within the Logistics Process

Mobile pallet racks from SSI SCHAEFER are designed to be particularly space-saving when storing pallets – even in deep-freeze areas. The systems are designed to meet the highest weight and size requirements for stored products. The modular structure also allows for implementation of customer-specific solutions. In order to easily upgrade these systems to fully automated installations, we offer the option to combine the AGV for heavy load carriers (i.e. SSI Heavy Load AGVs such as Reach Truck or Counterbalance).  This allows efficient networking of remote warehousing and work areas far from the mobile racks.

Retrofitting Manual Pallet Racks with AGVs

Pallet racking systems from SSI SCHAEFER include an extensive modular system that can be used to build customized racking solutions. Pallet racks such as our PR 600 allow for modular assembly. Many customers benefit from our stable and robust solutions. In addition to expanding with additional rack aisles, modular racks can be linked with AGVs for heavy load carriers (SSI Heavy Load AGVs). In this way, we combine tried-and-true solutions with innovative technologies, making it possible to retrofit existing manual systems without the need for huge infrastructure changes.

Expanding the SSI LOGIMAT® Warehouse and Picking Solution for Compact Load Carriers by Adding an Automated In-House Transport Option

The SSI LOGIMAT® vertical lift module is a small parts storage and picking solution in one system. The solution focuses on ergonomics, safety and efficiency. The vertical lift module can be used within any industry and efficiently and expediently supports in-house processes. Connecting our SSI Compact Load AGVs (here: WEASEL®) for compact load carriers allows the fully automated transport of picked containers. This provides intelligent linking of the picking area, the incoming goods area, the production line, or shipping workspace.