Contour-navigating AMRs run five-shift at processing plant
EA Mobile Robotics has supplied one customer in the automotive industry with an AMR system consisting of six AMRs. The system transports products on pallets between different gantry loading systems and a robot cell.
As the AMRs work in an environment where forklifts, operators, and pedestrians are present, safety and flexibility were two important factors for the customer in the purchasing process.
When delivering pallets, the AMR system communicates with both machines and the robot cell to ensure safe access and secure pick-up and delivery of pallets.
– When AMRs do the work, transporting pallets is both predictable and safe in open environments. The production process is also more flexible than when using traditional solutions such as forklifts or fixed conveyor systems, says Oskar Kurtti, technical salesperson at EA Mobile Robotics.
Previously, all transports were manually handled so with this solution the customer’s production flow was immediately more efficient.
AMRs are using differential driving and contour-navigation. Charging is automatic and wireless in fixed places, making the system highly flexible.
– A contour-navigating AMR system enables the customer to quickly change movement patterns on the floor if future demands require it, says Oskar Kurtti.
The result for the customer is a reliable flexible solution that does not require extra resources.
Technical overview:
• Differential drive: The mode of operation consists of two drive units that are mounted in the middle of each long side which means that the AMR can rotate along its own centre point.
• Contour navigation (SLAM): AMRs use their laser scanners and with its surroundings as reference, they navigate freely without loops, lines, or other fixed installations.
• Optical navigation: As a complement to contour navigation (SLAM), a camera is used to enable precise stopping at pick-up and drop-off locations. The camera scans a QR code taped to the floor.
• Wireless charging: Contact-free charging via a charging plate on the AMR. This type of charging is very fast, flexible, and efficient.
• Blue spot: A lamp that projects a strong blue light on the floor in the AMR’s direction of travel making it extra visible to its surroundings.
• Lithium battery: The AMRs have lithium batteries for increased capacity and longer lifespan.