DB Schenker has started operating an autonomous forklift at its Eching site near Munich after the completion of a pilot project. From this location, the company said that it supplies the production of a well-known German automobile manufacturer with vehicle parts.
The forklift is from the Austrian supplier AGILOX and it transports empty containers over a distance of around 150 meters without human intervention. This activity was previously carried out with conventional forklifts.
The AGILOX has a height-adjustable fork with which containers can be raised and lowered. It is not necessary for warehouse employees to manually park the containers on the Automated Guided Vehicle. The AGILOX is also able to record a map of the area for navigation within the location within a very short time.
The robots can take on simple tasks in the warehouse so that the employees can concentrate on complex tasks, especially at peak times. With the help of intelligent software, DB Schenker employees can also set up operating areas and security zones, for example, or mark reception and storage areas. Sensors and cameras ensure that AGILOX detects and circumvents obstacles in time.
Xavier Garijo, Executive Vice President Contract Logistics, Schenker AG, said: “We want to support employees by automating logistics processes, especially in times of a shortage of skilled workers in logistics.”
AGILOX is now being tested to see if it can be used in other locations of the logistics provider.
Source: DB Schenker Logistics
