Consider driverless transport in support of production

A question that often arises, especially in logistics contexts, is “Man or machine?” Forklift-free production logistics using automated tugger train systems is a clear example of how the one does not exclude the other. On the contrary, synergies between the two components ensure high efficiency while creating value and promoting the employees' health. The use of trolleys which are pushed into frames towed by a tugger truck allows for a fast and flexible supply of entire production lines, just-in-time or just-in-sequence. Perfect interaction between trolley and frame is an essential key to success in this respect. In addition to the efficient, reliable supply and removal of process materials, companies also profit in terms of increased productivity, cost optimisation and production individuality. Also, a cyclically synchronised supply via an unchanging route also ensures safety, smooth in-house traffic and ergonomic working conditions.

The digital revolution – especially in online retailing – is leading to more dynamic production and supply chains across all sectors. Driverless transport systems are an efficient option to meet the needs of flexibility, customisation and process safety: in particular, partly or fully-automated tugger trains, supported by state-of-the-art navigation and control technologies, are taking over the task of supplying production plants and load handling. The benefits are obvious. Flexible, perfectly synchronised production supply, optimised materials stocks, minimised errors and accidents, and the needs-based deployment of personnel are only a few of the advantages.

In 2019, STILL received the IFOY award in the AGV & Intralogistics Robot category for the STILL LiftRunner with automated loading and unloading and for the LTX 50 electric truck.

Qualified, healthy and motivated skilled personnel are one of the most important resources of successful companies even in the age of automation. The example of the automated tugger train system clearly shows that automation is not the same as economising on jobs. Of course automation is an entrepreneurial instrument to counteract challenges such as the shortage of specialist staff, rising wage costs and a high pressure to achieve flexibility, but it is much more than that. It also means making the best possible use of technological and human resources and exploiting synergies. When intelligent machines in production ensure safety and reliable processes and also take on physically heavy, repetitive work, productivity and efficiency increase. At the same time, employees benefit from improved working conditions and health protection as well as more freedom for creative and responsible tasks thanks to automation. For example, a single employee is able to undertake the logistical responsibility for an entire production line instead of merely for a single production step.

For more information, visit www.still.co.uk