Interoperability enables the mobile robots and systems of different manufacturers to work together seamlessly. In this blog post, you will discover how standardising systems and using platforms improves efficiency and flexibility in logistics operations.
The challenge currently facing the logistics sector is how to combine a whole host of different technologies and systems. Many production departments, warehouses and distribution centres operate mobile robots from different manufacturers. These robots often don’t work together harmoniously, though. This heterogeneity makes it harder to automate processes, which leads to inefficiency.
Interoperability is the ability of different systems to communicate and work smoothly with each other. In this particular context, it enables different robot fleets and vehicles to be controlled using a single system. As a result, companies can optimise their processes, cut their costs and significantly improve the flexibility of their logistics operations. Without such interoperable solutions, complex integration projects are needed that are both time-consuming and expensive. Interoperability, on the other hand, paves the way for more efficient and futureproof logistics processes.
Increased efficiency through AGV integration
Find out in the free white paper how you can optimise your intralogistics with driverless transport systems (AGVs) and design flexible superstructures for this purpose.
VDA 5050 – the route to interoperability
VDA 5050 acts as a standardised interface for communication between different driverless transport systems and a central master controller. It ensures manufacturers are speaking the same language – for smooth integration and control of hybrid logistics fleets. VDA 5050 was developed by the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) in cooperation with the VDMA, which represents the equipment and manufacturing industry in Germany, and with support from the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT).
A single platform for all material flows
“To make the most of the benefits of interoperability, companies need a platform that enables all the transport solutions they are using to be controlled centrally,” says Dr. Philipp Schäfers, Head of Partner Management & Business Development at SYNAOS. “Our Intralogistics Management Platform – IMP – is just such a system,” he adds. By integrating transport resources from different manufacturers, it enables end-to-end control and optimisation of complex material flows.
The traffic management system integrated into the platform controls the flow of traffic along routes and prevents blockage situations. “The ideal route is determined for each vehicle to ensure it moves efficiently,” explains Dr. Schäfers. “The system also monitors and visualises the status on the shopfloor, including all vehicle, order and device messages. This provides a continuous overview of all production and logistics processes,” he continues.
To make the most of the benefits of interoperability, companies need a platform that enables all the transport solutions they are using to be controlled centrally.
With the help of special computer vision technology and standard hardware, even transport units that have not yet been digitalised – such as industrial trucks driven by actual people – are included and integrated into the system. This means even manual processes can be planned and optimised more effectively. All available transport resources are ultimately incorporated into the system.
Standardising hardware is a must
Besides the standardisation of software, standardising hardware also plays a key role in logistics interoperability. “The charging infrastructure represents a particular challenge, as different robots and driverless transport systems often require different charging systems,” explains Matthieu Ebert, Director Product & Technology at Wiferion – a PULS brand. This results in time-consuming installation processes and higher operating costs.
The charging infrastructure represents a particular challenge, as different robots and driverless transport systems often require different charging systems.
One solution is to introduce wireless, inductive charging systems that can be used flexibly for different sorts of vehicles. This kind of charging technology makes it possible to charge mobile robots regardless of the manufacturer and type of battery. One example is the etaLINK system from Wiferion, which offers efficient energy transfer. The etaLINK system consists of a wallbox, a charging pad and the electronics installed in the vehicle, including a receiver coil and an energy storage device. These components enable rapid, contactless energy transfer. Even short breaks in operation are sufficient for recharging, as the high-current inductive charging process starts fully automatically in less than a second. “Wireless charging makes it possible to standardise the charging infrastructure,” emphasises Ebert. “Besides cutting costs, this also opens the way for efficient scaling of large, heterogeneous fleets,” he adds.
Suitable peripherals for mobile robots
Besides the software and charging infrastructure, suitable peripherals are also vital when it comes to integrating mobile robots efficiently into logistics operations. With the help of appropriate constructions, mobile transport robots can be adapted to carry out a variety of transport tasks. One important aspect is the flexibility of these peripherals. Rather than rigid, welded frames, it is an advantage to use modular systems that can be extended and modified on a customised basis. Our universal Base Carts, for instance, are easily combined with a variety of superstructures. These standardised Base Carts are geared towards the specifications of well-known manufacturers. This ensures, for example, that the robot’s sensor technology is not covered and can operate reliably.
The Base Carts are the perfect fit for europallets and therefore provide a standardised interface for our Top Modules.
“The Base Carts are the perfect fit for europallets and therefore provide a standardised interface for our Top Modules,” explains Hannes Fröhlich, Product Manager Robotics at item. “For maximum flexibility, their design can be customised to suit the requirements of the relevant transport process,” he adds. This aspect is particularly important for heterogeneous fleets. It means transport robots from different manufacturers can be equipped with suitable modules, without the need for major modifications. The use of standardised interfaces and superstructures ultimately helps boost efficiency and facilitate implementation in existing processes. Thanks to the adaptability of the superstructures, companies can quickly respond to changes in production or logistics processes, without having to invest heavily in new hardware.
The bottom line – interoperability offers multiple benefits for the logistics sector
Interoperability enables efficient use of transport resources, as all systems can communicate seamlessly with each other. This significantly reduces the complexity and cost of integrating new technologies, which is especially important in production environments with a large number of different systems.
Another key advantage of interoperability is increased versatility. Companies can adapt and extend their logistics fleets as required, meaning they can respond more easily and flexibly to changes in market requirements and customer needs.
Would you like to be regularly updated on the latest news from the world of mobile robotics? Then we have just what you’re looking for! Simply subscribe to the item blog by completing the box at the top right.
