How to optimize intra logistics to streamline and speed industry 4.0
Intra logistics defined Intra logistics is deployed using cyber-physical systems designed to optimize internal distribution and production processes. To be fully effective, an intra logistics system must also be integrated with the larger supply chain through the Internet and local operational processes. In warehouses, the system includes knowing where all the material is in the facility, what is needed to fulfill outstanding orders, what may be missing to complete orders, and where incoming material is in the broader supply chain. In factories, intra logistics includes knowing what material is needed
AMRs and AGVs look similar but operate differently. While traditional AGVs are preprogrammed to perform limited functions for the lowest costs, new models of AGVs are available with sensors like AMRs, blurring the distinction between the two. As a result of safety concerns, traditional AGVs operate in areas separate from people, but newer models include sensors for collision avoidance and can ensure higher levels of safety. This article begins with a review of intra logistics and how it can be used to speed up supply chains. It then compares the operation and uses of AGVs and AMRs and briefly considers the differences between the two in terms of navigation and obstacle avoidance capabilities, flexibility, safety, deployment challenges, maintenance, and cost of ownership. At the same time, it looks at the blurring distinction between AMRs and AVGs and closes with a look at how the use of digital twins may enhance future intra logistics operations. The second article in this series will dive deeper into the wide range of sensor technologies AMRs and AGVs need. DigiKey offers a full range of automation products for intra logistics in both cases.
Intra logistics (internal logistics) uses autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) to efficiently move materials around Industry 4.0 warehouses and production facilities. In this article, the issues related to how AMRs and AGVs are used on a system level for implementing intra logistics and quickly and safely moving materials as needed are discussed. Part 2 of this series focuses on use cases and how AMRs and AGVs employ sensors to identify and track items, how ML and AI support material identification, movement and delivery of materials throughout warehouse and production facilities. Moving materials rapidly from the receiving dock to the shipping dock in a warehouse or from location to location in a manufacturing facility — called intra logistics (for internal logistics) — is a critical aspect of streamlining and speeding up supply chain operations in Industry 4.0. There’s more to intra logistics than raw speed; it must be done efficiently, accurately, and with reduced waste for maximum benefits. Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) can be critical to improved intra logistics.
supply chains – part one of two
By Jeff Shepard Contributed By DigiKey's North American Editors
for specific manufacturing processes and supporting
maximum scheduling efficiency by coordinating information about what’s currently in the facility and when additional materials will arrive, combined with machine and operator availability. When fully integrated, information about material availability, people, their skills and locations, plus machinery and its availability, reduces costs by minimizing inventory, increasing flexibility for mass customization, and improving quality (Figure 1). Intra logistics impacts process engineering, systems design, project management, material
Figure 1: Intra logistics can integrate information about material, people, and machines to optimize Industry 4.0 operations. (Image source: Getty Images)
requirements planning, and numerous other functions.
we get technical
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