Audi is working in its German fabriken with robotic trolleys that bring goods to warehouse workers. The manufacturer thus hopes for more efficient internal logistics. In addition, warehouse workers will have to travel fewer kilometres.
The trolleys at the factories in the city of Ingolstadt receive their orders via Wi-Fi. Using camera sensors and QR codes on the floor, they move to the rack cabinet containing the relevant goods. This shelving unit is then lifted and transported to a central point in the warehouse at a speed of 3.6 kilometres per hour.The warehouse employee is informed via a monitor which goods are to be taken out of the unit.
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The robotic trolleys can lift up to 600 kilograms and contain eight batteries. These batteries can be charged wirelessly in 2 hours via induction.
The robots are currently still being used in moderation. Currently, they only deliver manuals for the Audi A3. The system should be rolled out further next year, when it will make further strides with the 'warehouse of the future'. Audi expects to eventually need less warehouse space by using robots. Because warehouse workers no longer have to search for products, shelving units can be closer together.
Editorial LogistiekProfs
