Swisslog Holding AG, a provider of warehouse automation and software, has expanded its product offerings with the new IntraMove series of autonomous mobile robots, or AMRs. These systems are designed to move payloads up to 3,000 kg (6,613.8 lb.).
The new robots use artificial intelligence and can adapt to changing environments and varying transportation needs, said the Buchs, Switzerland-based company.
“Our customers are increasingly looking for horizontal transport solutions capable of handling heavier loads and adapting to dynamic and frequently changing conditions,” stated Thomas Balzarek, AMR solution manager at Swisslog Americas.
“Our new AMRs are ideal for point-to-point pallet transport in sectors such as food and beverage, fashion and general merchandise, as well as inter-industrial applications,” he added. “The advantages they offer are quick deployment and flexible operation, ease of changing routes and delivery points, and adaptability to support business growth.”
IntraMove connects to multiple systems, uses SLAM
The IntraMove series connects to AI-based fleet management software via the VDA 5050 standard communication interface. This software maps scenarios, plans routes, and assigns transport orders to the robots. It can be linked to a warehouse control system (WCS) or a warehouse management system (WMS), such as Swisslog’s SynQ software, to manage transport orders.
The fleet management software can also communicate with external equipment like doors and elevators using protocols such as MQTT, ModBus, or OPC UA.
Swisslog added that its new robots use simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) navigation with two laser scanners. AI algorithms calculate efficient paths to destinations while avoiding obstacles and traffic, without the need for cables, strips, or tapes.
The AMRs have a lifting device that raises goods in smooth movements, said the company. It claimed that the solution is scalable, allowing businesses to adjust the number of mobile robots as they grow without needing to modify their warehouses.
Swisslog offers AMR options
Various top modules, including platforms and conveyors, provide efficient product handling and transport flexibility, according to Swisslog.
The IntraMove AMRs are available in different payload versions. The compact model, IntraMove AMR 600, can handle a payload of 600 kg (1,322.7 lb.). The IntraMove AMR 1500 is for 1,500 kg (3,306.9 lb.), and the heavy-duty IntraMove AMR 3000 is for payloads of 3,000 kg (6,613.8 lb.).
Swisslog said the AMRs can be integrated into larger solutions for horizontal pallet or box transport, or they can function standalone for order preparation. They are designed to offer flexibility based on transport needs.
The company noted that it has been integrating logistics systems including automated guided vehicles (AGVs) for over 50 years. The new AMRs join Swisslog’s CarryPick order-picking system.