Case study
Through its Mobile Robotics division, Elektroautomatik has delivered an advanced AGV system (Automated Guided Vehicles) to Toyota Material Handling Manufacturing Sweden (TMHMS). The AGVs function as mobile workstations in the assembly line for lithium batteries, significantly increasing production capacity and efficiency.
Background: Toyota Material Handling Manufacturing Sweden
Toyota Material Handling Manufacturing Sweden, based in Mjölby, is home to one of the world’s largest factories for the development and production of warehouse trucks. The company operates according to “The Toyota Way” – a philosophy focused on efficiency and quality in every production process. As part of their operations, lithium batteries for the trucks are also manufactured, and the need to increase production capacity led to the implementation of an AGV system from Elektroautomatik Mobile Robotics.
Advantages of the AGV solution
The new solution provides TMHMS with a safe, flexible, and accessible system for production. In the workflow:
- Lithium batteries in various sizes and capacities are assembled and tested.
- Each AGV handles up to two batteries at a time, depending on size and model.
- The AGVs are equipped with integrated lift tables and turntables to improve ergonomics and efficiency in the assembly process.
- Return paths are used efficiently, as the AGVs pick up new material on their way back to the next assembly step.
“TMHMS is incredibly skilled in efficient production processes and incorporates this thinking into every step,” says Oskar Kurtti, Sales Representative at EA Mobile Robotics. “The solution has provided TMHMS with a safe, accessible, and flexible system.”
Addition: Integrated Andon system
As part of the delivery, an Andon system was included, offering clear and detailed status information about the ongoing production.
Why lithium batteries?
In recent years, lithium batteries have become an increasingly popular choice in Toyota’s trucks due to several advantages over lead-acid batteries:
- Longer lifespan
- Higher energy density
- Faster charging
- Smaller and lighter batteries with the same capacity