Siemens-led partnership launches AGVs
SIEMENS HAS partnered with with Parmley Graham and AR Controls to produce AGVs to meet growing demand across industries.
At the heart of the product is the Siemens AGV kit, which includes SIMOVE, a standardised system platform for AGV applications, and the SIMATIC MICRO-DRIVE, a servo drive system that covers a wide range of applications in the protective extra-low voltage range (24-48 V DC). Servo drives are used extensively when building AGVs. These compatible controllers from the SIMATIC portfolios optimally complement the motion control functionalities of this future-proof solution.
The design, build and manufacture of the AGVs are a result of collaboration with Gateshead-based industrial automation firm Parmley Graham, and Sunderland-based integration and robotics company AR Controls. Parmley Graham is working collaboratively to support the project through the provision of hardware specifications, organising of kit-formed bills of material, and sourcing of other third-party products for the AGVs. AR Controls takes care of design and build.
Siemens Digital Industries managing director Brian Holliday, says: “The UK supply chain market is growing exponentially, and most manufacturers are now investing in technologies to boost their own logistics. AGVs are a crucial part of this investment.”
Siemens says the pandemic put many industries into disarray, especially the logistics industry that struggled to get essentials to consumers during lockdowns and border closings. Manufacturers across industries had to rethink and look towards efficient processes in warehousing, moving goods internally within the factory, and deal with labour shortages from both the pandemic and Brexit.
AGVs bring a wealth of benefits including improved warehousing efficiency and streamlined logistics management, lower labour costs, faster delivery, and reduced risk of workplace injury. They can also be integrated to achieve digitalisation and Smart Factory goals.
The partnership builds on its success providing hundreds of AGV kits to a major auto manufacturer, which has a production plant in the North.
For more information, visit www.siemens.com
