ASSA ABLOY is the world's leading manufacturer of locking and security systems. A transport robot was already in use, but it was only suitable for small parts and light loads. Larger quantities of material were collected and brought into production on trolleys according to the push principle, i.e. regardless of actual demand. In order to optimise intralogistics, the goal was clear: reduce walking distances, automate material supply and control it according to demand using a pull principle.
Space was limited in the production area. In addition, the dynamic environment repeatedly led to discrepancies between the stored maps and the actual surroundings, which made it difficult for the robots to orient themselves. Furthermore, it had to be possible to transport goods across several floors. However, the existing lift was outdated and could not be controlled directly by the MiR fleet manager.
Phoenix Mecano chosed two MiR250 robots with a flexible top module from Nord Modules. Thanks to its integrated lifting mechanism, the autonomous robot can be used universally. It transports not only loose small load carriers, but also pallet-sized trolleys and a wide variety of containers. They transport the prepared material from logistics directly to the respective assembly line and return finished products to the goods issue area.
The switch to the pull principle in accordance with LEAN principles increases operational efficiency through automation and reduces dependence on manual transport. Material flows are now controlled according to demand, resulting in greater accuracy and reliability in material handling. At the same time, intralogistics processes are streamlined, resources are optimally utilised and productivity increases. For employees, this means fewer trips and more time for their core tasks.
A particular challenge was cross-floor supply. By integrating an additional control system, the existing lift was successfully integrated into the MiR fleet management system. This means that transport between floors is now possible without interfering with the existing infrastructure. The orientation problems of the autonomous mobile robots were solved by counting the number of wheel revolutions, so that they know their exact position at all times. In addition, three employees were trained in external MiR courses, enabling the company to build up internal expertise and further develop the application independently. This is supported by MiR's comprehensive documentation and support portal, as well as direct support from Phoenix Mecano.
Today, the mobile robots handle automated transport from logistics to assembly to goods dispatch. At the same time, the high flexibility of the MiR platform enables ASSA ABLOY to continuously expand the solution and integrate further material flows into the automation system in order to implement further visions for the future.
A particular challenge was cross-floor supply. By integrating an additional control system, the existing lift was successfully integrated into the MiR fleet management system. This means that transport between floors is now possible without interfering with the existing infrastructure. The orientation problems of the autonomous mobile robots were solved by counting the number of wheel revolutions, so that they know their exact position at all times. In addition, three employees were trained in external MiR courses, enabling the company to build up internal expertise and further develop the application independently. This is supported by MiR's comprehensive documentation and support portal, as well as direct support from Phoenix Mecano.
Today, the mobile robots handle automated transport from logistics to assembly to goods dispatch. At the same time, the high flexibility of the MiR platform enables ASSA ABLOY to continuously expand the solution and integrate further material flows into the automation system in order to implement further visions for the future.
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