Dematic has announced plans to upgrade warehouse automation for Fonterra, New Zealand’s leading dairy co-operative, –– at their key manufacturing facility in Edendale, with the delivery of new Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs).
The new AGVs feature Dematic software that improves useability and will allow Fonterra to better manage operations throughout the facility.
The new AGVs will transport and feed pallets of raw materials into production subsystems as well as handle finished outbound pallets. Fonterra has operated with AGVs since 2009 to automate time-consuming and highly repetitive tasks within its manufacturing facility.
The new AGVs will work to prevent bottlenecks to create a streamlined process where products can flow seamlessly, without the need for manual handling.
The Dematic AGVs work as a driverless fully automated forklift – each with a load capacity of 3,500 kilograms and a lift height of 4.0 metres – controlled by Dematic software that uploads data to the AGVs before they set off on daily tasks.
Dematic AGVs operate with a high level of autonomy and provide 24/7 service to increase output and deliver a quick return on investment. Individual AGVs are exchangeable with each other to ensure redundancy in system operation. Dematic AGVs eliminate human errors that can cause costly damages and mistakes in picking and loading.
Within Fonterra’s Edendale manufacturing facility, the AGV systems will work to manage three core activities: transferring and dispensing replenished consumables, stacking and de-stacking empty and pre-filled product pallets, and stacking and transferring finished goods to storage areas and conveyors prior to shipping.
“Our AGV systems are tailor-designed to navigate any production and warehouse space with a laser-guidance system, using on-board hazard detection to avoid collisions. This high-end navigation allows them to move around a facility optimally and safely,” said Tony Raggio, General Manager of Sales, Mobile Automation, Dematic. “Rotating laser scanners mounted on top of the AGVs measure angles and distances to reflectors mounted on the surrounding walls within the facility. The AGVs then calculate a position based on this information, together with speed and steer encoders to operate with a repeatable accuracy of ±5 mm.”
Additionally, the AGVs can drive themselves onto charging floor plates at times of inactivity to be charged using the automated opportunity charging function.
The use of automation with AGVs creates a safer workplace and reduces mistakes that can lead to damaged products. AGVs streamline on-the-floor operations to increase the efficiency of the supply chain.
Dematic is the leading supplier of AGVs in Australia and New Zealand, having supplied over 700 AGVs in upwards of 120 projects across the region. Dematic AGVs are designed, engineered, programmed, and manufactured in Sydney, Australia, using world leading component systems.
Further information: Dematic Pty Limited, 24 Narabang Way, Belrose NSW 2085, Australia. Tel: +61 2 9486 5555. Fax: +61 2 9486 5511. dematic.com.au
