Driverless transport systems: These nimble little powerhouses take over the transport of goods.

Faster and more efficient transportation of goods from A to B without walking? Driverless transport systems (DTS) from ek robotics GmbH, for example, make this possible. They are ideal for automating in-house material transportation. Both as an introduction to automation and as a supplement to existing automated areas. More and more companies are relying on AGVs in intralogistics. The systems impress with their small footprint and easy integration. This is why they are becoming increasingly popular.

But who coordinates the use of driverless transport vehicles to ensure that they deliver the correct goods on time and with precision? The SuPCIS-L8 warehouse management software together with the AGV control system solves this problem. We integrate various AGV manufacturers via the interfaces of our system. We exchange information on transport orders, such as the collection or placement of load carriers, in real time. This ensures an efficient and smooth material flow in the warehouse.

For our customers who already use AGVs, they transport pallets from predefined source areas in the distribution center to destination transfer points. The integration of AGVs requires the precise synchronization of all material flows. The timely start of predecessor processes to avoid AGV waiting times must be taken into account, as must the correct sequence of supply. Comprehensive control is essential to manage this. In addition to the AGVs, the employees and the existing automated warehouse technology, such as a high-bay warehouse or palletizing robots, also play an important role. All components must work synchronously and precisely so that the logistics process runs optimally.

They support the loading of empty pallets for shipping, disposal after palletizing with picking/shipping cartons and the delivery of packed pallets to a pallet wrapper. In addition, they take over the loading of the outgoing goods department with wrapped pallets and the provision of the pallets to be stored recorded in the incoming goods department. This keeps the material flow moving continuously.

To illustrate this, let's look at a practical example. It concerns the provision of a picked pallet to the winder at goods issue. The AGV first receives a transport order for further processing of the picked pallet. Our warehouse management system checks and decides whether further follow-up activities are planned for this pallet in the material flow. After picking up the pallet, the AGV travels to the pallet wrapping system. This is equipped with a pallet conveyor element and a label printer. The AGV transfers the pallet to the conveyor system and reports the transfer to the warehouse management system. The warehouse management system then issues an order to the wrapper. The pallet is transported to the wrapping device, wrapped and provided with a pallet label printed by the warehouse management system. After wrapping, the AGV control system informs the operator that the pallet is ready for collection. The pallet is either transferred to the route preparation zone and loaded or transferred to a manual processing station, where employees process it further.

Automated guided vehicles optimize the material flow, especially when the walking distances are too long for employees. AGVs provide employees with optimum support in their day-to-day work. The use of AGVs reduces the need for manpower and the challenges involved in recruiting staff. The freely navigable transport systems offer high flexibility and reliability when transporting goods in the warehouse.

Are you interested in AGVs and would like advice? Please feel free to contact us.