AUTOMATION FOR INTRALOGISTICS

Linde offers flexible and scalable automation solutions based on a wide range of trucks and navigational technology that does not require any fixed installation of infrastructure.

Linde’s automation technology can blend seamlessly into existing standard IT systems and the company’s logistics infrastructure. The technology enables direct communication with applications such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) or Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) in the process.

If necessary, the system also coordinates interaction with roller shutters, packing machines, conveyor belts and production machinery for a safe and efficient overall process. There is also the option of adding or connecting applications to the technology.

The range of solutions with automated devices ranges from the supply of production lines or packing stations with simple tugger trains and pallet trucks to storage by pallet stackers through to handling in high shelving and narrow aisle warehouses, including the tracking of load carriers using barcodes or RFID tags.

MAXIMUM FLEXIBILITY WITH GEONAVIGATION
Automation depends entirely on having the right technology for truck navigation. If complex adjustments to the infrastructure are required for this, the budget is often exceeded. Adjustments to new or changed processes should also be carried out as quickly and easily as possible.

Linde’s geonavigation is easy to integrate into existing warehouse or production environments, and navigates using the existing fixed points in the room. To do so, the environment is first recorded in the form of a map, which is then cleaned up for navigation before finally setting the routes. The autonomous trucks use the map to determine their position in the area. For this purpose, they compare the reference map in real time with the structures detected by the navigation laser at the time.

Changes to the spatial structure or new routes can subsequently be adjusted quickly and easily in the system. For additional flexibility, users can switch to manual operation at any time and perform other truck maneuvers. This also enables users to respond to the respective capacity situation.

Linde makes it easy for companies to get started with the help of a “Proof of Concept” (PoC). This involves Linde experts integrating a truck into the material flow for a straightforward application as an example. That enables companies to experience the benefits of automation for their own value creation without great effort.

Companies benefit from Linde’s high standards in terms of safety and reliability, and also from the performance of the MATIC trucks. These are based on proven Linde trucks retrofitted with automation components.

An ingenious safety management system consisting of sensors, 3D cameras, visual and audible warning devices, and emergency stop switches ensures that the autonomous trucks do not damage shelves, product carriers, or goods. Furthermore, the robotic trucks can be operated manually at any time. If someone operates the control unit, automatic operation stops immediately. This means the truck can be quickly moved out of a dangerous area in an emergency, or used for a task outside of its automated work cycle
This improves the reliability and quality of supply while increasing occupational safety in the warehouse. Customers also benefit from Linde’s extensive service network, ensuring high system and truck availability around the clock.

With high- and low-platform pallet trucks, tow tractors, counterbalanced forklifts, and a high-functionality truck for work in narrow aisles, the automated MATIC range covers 80 percent of all handling tasks in production and warehouse logistics.