Automated warehousing solution a highlight of CeMAT 2018

Launched and shown for the first time in Australia at the CeMAT exhibition show, Swisslog’s CarryStar system combines automatic guided vehicles (AGVs), KUKA robots and the latest Swisslog SynQ software with the aim of optimising efficiency, flexibility, reliability and sustainability in warehousing operations.

Swisslog shared its CeMAT exhibition stand with its parent company and global robotics leader KUKA at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre in July. KUKA robots form a key component of the CarryStar solution, as they automate the picking process.

The fully automated process starts with a pallet infeed station from which KUKA automated vehicles receive the pallets and transport them to buffer positions or to the picking area around a KUKA robot. The Star Robot module is designed to pick layers, stacks or individual crates to create rainbow or base pallets to fulfil the orders. Once an order pallet is complete, the KUKA automated vehicles transport them to the pallet wrapper, where they are wrapped and labelled before they reach the dispatching area.

“Providing precise sequencing and high order accuracy, the system creates a reduction in warehouse labour costs and increases picking efficiency,” said Swisslog Senior Consultant Paul Stringleman. “CarryStar is an Industry 4.0 enabled, modular and scalable solution to improve intralogistic efficiencies in existing and new warehouses.

“CarryStar drew a lot of attention at CeMAT this year. Seeing AGVs and robots in action is always impressive, but people took the time to enquire about how this solution can be custom-tailored to suit their application,” he said.

“CarryStar is totally modular and scalable, which allows for growth in line with business growth. In addition to needing only minimal fixed infrastructure, it does not require any conveyors, which adds flexibility when updating or expanding operations. CarryStar is adaptable to small, mid-size and large layer and stack picking operations.”

Swisslog and KUKA’s technologies and automation solutions are designed to improve efficiency and return on investment for industries such as e-commerce, retail, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, logistics and fast-moving consumer goods.

“CeMAT was an excellent opportunity to engage with companies looking to the future and seeking to be at the forefront of revolutionary automated logistics and materials handling technologies,” said Stringleman.

Image: The Swisslog and KUKA teams at their CeMAT 2018 stand. Behind them is a demonstration of the CarryStar solution, launched at the show.