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How To Keep Your Automated Trucks Running Smoothly

Posted on by Will Priestman

STILL, the Hamburg-based intralogistics provider, is systematically expanding its service concept and will soon be offering fast and flexible on-site service for automated trucks. In addition to the comprehensive service network and the expertise of STILL service technicians, a new digital service concept and, in particular, the use of standardised components will contribute to this. In addition, the centralised STILL spare parts supply ensures a high level of parts availability in the automation sector. With its smart, digital service concept, STILL is once again setting new standards in the industry.

Demand for automation solutions is booming – and companies are increasingly reliant on efficient solutions due to efficiency pressures, lack of skilled labour and growing global competition. However, even the best automation systems require regular maintenance and service to run smoothly and enable companies to realise the competitive advantages of automated solutions. This is where STILL’s experienced automation experts come in. Thanks to industrialised production and standardised components, STILL will offer a broad portfolio of automated vehicles with short delivery times and a wide range of customer-specific equipment options – and at the same time can further improve the speed and flexibility of service for automation solutions.

“When choosing the right partner, the efficiency of our systems is crucial for many of our customers,” explains Dr Florian Heydenreich, Executive Vice President Sales & Service STILL EMEA. “With this in mind, maximising the availability of our products in customer applications is a high priority, for example through fast and flexible service. Our customers have been acknowledging our excellent service quality for manual trucks for years. Now we can guarantee the same high standard for our first automated solutions.

The new concept is based on the industrialisation of both components and service processes. This enables the handling of automated vehicles to be comparable to that of production vehicles.  Thanks to the standardisation of components and production, almost all spare parts can be ordered within a very short time from STILL’s central spare parts warehouse.

Digital twins and internal quality assurance tool to speed up service for automated vehicles

STILL creates a so-called digital twin for each automated truck in the company’s own cloud. If a component with software needs to be replaced in the event of a malfunction, STILL service technicians can quickly and easily configure new hardware with a backup from the cloud and install it directly on site. Compared to previous processes where hardware had to be ordered, centrally configured and then installed at the customer’s premises, the new STILL service concept significantly increases the availability of the trucks. Another advantage of the digital service concept is the integration of the automated products into the company’s internal quality assurance tool. Here, all service processes are documented and evaluated in a standardised manner. In this way, customer service experiences are incorporated into the continuous product optimisation process.

Reliable and personal: STILL’s comprehensive service network

The digital service concept also has a positive impact on direct customer contact. This is made possible by standardisation, a qualified training concept and a strong, nationwide network of service technicians. In other words, all service personnel will continue to receive comprehensive training on all products sold in their region and will be able to configure, implement, maintain and repair them – including automated trucks. This not only increases STILL’s service speed, but also strengthens customer confidence in the STILL brand. “With our smart service concept and the digital twin for our automated trucks, we are setting a new standard for fast and flexible service,” says Dr Florian Heydenreich, summarising the benefits. “We now need to extend this standard step by step to our entire automation portfolio”.

First impressions were given to visitors at this year’s LogiMAT from 19 to 21 March in Stuttgart. STILL presented the new EXV iGo high lift truck with digital service concept.

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How To Keep Your Automated Trucks Running Smoothly

Posted on by Will Priestman

STILL, the Hamburg-based intralogistics provider, is systematically expanding its service concept and will soon be offering fast and flexible on-site service for automated trucks. In addition to the comprehensive service network and the expertise of STILL service technicians, a new digital service concept and, in particular, the use of standardised components will contribute to this. In addition, the centralised STILL spare parts supply ensures a high level of parts availability in the automation sector. With its smart, digital service concept, STILL is once again setting new standards in the industry.

Demand for automation solutions is booming – and companies are increasingly reliant on efficient solutions due to efficiency pressures, lack of skilled labour and growing global competition. However, even the best automation systems require regular maintenance and service to run smoothly and enable companies to realise the competitive advantages of automated solutions. This is where STILL’s experienced automation experts come in. Thanks to industrialised production and standardised components, STILL will offer a broad portfolio of automated vehicles with short delivery times and a wide range of customer-specific equipment options – and at the same time can further improve the speed and flexibility of service for automation solutions.

“When choosing the right partner, the efficiency of our systems is crucial for many of our customers,” explains Dr Florian Heydenreich, Executive Vice President Sales & Service STILL EMEA. “With this in mind, maximising the availability of our products in customer applications is a high priority, for example through fast and flexible service. Our customers have been acknowledging our excellent service quality for manual trucks for years. Now we can guarantee the same high standard for our first automated solutions.

The new concept is based on the industrialisation of both components and service processes. This enables the handling of automated vehicles to be comparable to that of production vehicles.  Thanks to the standardisation of components and production, almost all spare parts can be ordered within a very short time from STILL’s central spare parts warehouse.

Digital twins and internal quality assurance tool to speed up service for automated vehicles

STILL creates a so-called digital twin for each automated truck in the company’s own cloud. If a component with software needs to be replaced in the event of a malfunction, STILL service technicians can quickly and easily configure new hardware with a backup from the cloud and install it directly on site. Compared to previous processes where hardware had to be ordered, centrally configured and then installed at the customer’s premises, the new STILL service concept significantly increases the availability of the trucks. Another advantage of the digital service concept is the integration of the automated products into the company’s internal quality assurance tool. Here, all service processes are documented and evaluated in a standardised manner. In this way, customer service experiences are incorporated into the continuous product optimisation process.

Reliable and personal: STILL’s comprehensive service network

The digital service concept also has a positive impact on direct customer contact. This is made possible by standardisation, a qualified training concept and a strong, nationwide network of service technicians. In other words, all service personnel will continue to receive comprehensive training on all products sold in their region and will be able to configure, implement, maintain and repair them – including automated trucks. This not only increases STILL’s service speed, but also strengthens customer confidence in the STILL brand. “With our smart service concept and the digital twin for our automated trucks, we are setting a new standard for fast and flexible service,” says Dr Florian Heydenreich, summarising the benefits. “We now need to extend this standard step by step to our entire automation portfolio”.

First impressions were given to visitors at this year’s LogiMAT from 19 to 21 March in Stuttgart. STILL presented the new EXV iGo high lift truck with digital service concept.

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IAG Cargo restarts services to Abu Dhabi

Posted on by Will Priestman

IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), is announcing the start of its summer schedule which will see an increase in services between its core hubs in London, Madrid, Barcelona and Dublin to key destinations across the world.

  • Restarted services between London and Abu Dhabi for the first time in four years
  • Increased services to the Middle East and Latin America as part of the new summer schedule

As part of the new schedule, services between London Heathrow (LHR) and Abu Dhabi (AUH) will return on the 20th April following a four-year hiatus. This route will benefit from the use of a Boeing 787-9 widebody aircraft and forms part of a 19% increase in weekly rotations to Africa and the Middle East.

Key transatlantic routes will also see a boost in capacity, with a 9% increase in services to Latin America and the Caribbean. This includes an additional three services per week to Buenos Aires (EZE) and up to four services per week to Sao Paulo (GRU) out of Madrid. Furthermore, there will be a doubling of weekly services between London Heathrow and San Diego (SAN), and an extra seven flights per week to Chicago (ORD). IAG Cargo has also launched a new service between Barcelona and Miami (MIA).

Camilo Garcia Cervera, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer at IAG Cargo, said: “The new summer schedule will offer enhanced capacity and greater flexibility for our customers. We are particularly pleased to expand our offering in Africa and the Middle East, including the resumption of operations in Abu Dhabi after a four-year absence from our schedule. Abu Dhabi International Airport is emerging as an increasingly important regional logistics hub with state-of-the-art facilities and we are excited to contribute towards its further growth.”

Out of London, IAG Cargo offers capacity to six continents with over 600 weekly wide-body services. Additionally, Dublin serves as a gateway to North America, boasting over 80 weekly wide-body rotations. The business now offers over 240 weekly wide-body services connecting Madrid and Barcelona with destinations across North America, Latin America and the Caribbean.

Other Recent Schedule Changes Include:

  • Barcelona – San Francisco – restarted on 31st March
  • Madrid – San Francisco – restarted on 2nd April
  • Madrid – Washington – Restarted 2nd April
  • Increased capacity from London to Cincinnati, Chicago, Haneda, San Diego and Vancouver
  • Increased capacity from Madrid to Buenos Aires, Boston, Dallas, Los Angeles, Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo.

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WMS Partners with Supply Chain Advisor

Posted on by David Priestman

US and UK-based Synergy Logistics has partnered with leading industry solutions adviser, Supply Chain BEST, to expand their warehouse management system (WMS) implementation capabilities.

Working together as preferred channel partners, rapidly expanding Synergy will leverage access to Florida-based Supply Chain BEST’s end-to-end system implementation and project management expertise. This partnership is the latest in a fast-growing ecosystem of partners, vendors, and integrations for SnapFulfil, and builds upon Supply Chain BEST resources in the US, Canada, UK, and Hong Kong.

Supply Chain BEST President, Joe Huss, said: “I am delighted to be partnering with Synergy and am excited by the prospect of working together as we share a mission to deliver the very best in customer supply chain solutions.

“Having worked with various WMS solutions over the years, SnapFulfil stands out in terms of its technologically advanced rules engine, flexibility, and configurability. The build process is configured as part of the solution, so there is minimal additional development and coding for each deployment, which historically adds to complexity and cost.

“SnapFulfil is so customizable we can also instruct our customers to self configure the WMS and help them understand how the system can get them to the next operational level, which is a real point of difference for those needing to flex and adapt to ever changing market demands.”
At 40+ companies strong, Synergy’s partnership network covers a broad spectrum of integration categories, such as ERP, iPaaS, Marketplace, Robotics, Shipping, and other channel partners.

Synergy Logistics Chief Commercial Officer, Brian Kirst, added: “It’s a mutually beneficial partnership, with the Supply Chain BEST team a great fit to match our domain expertise. They share the same comprehensive yet flexible approach to implementation, as well as an ethos that integrated software solutions should be about rapid time-to-value and strong return on investment.

“As business opportunities increase for both companies, we can scale and grow together and secure and develop more of the right kind of business.”

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Turkish Company Stands Out at LogiMAT

Posted on by David Priestman

Lodamaster, a global system integrator, made a resounding impact at the LogiMAT fair held in Stuttgart from March 19th to 22nd. Throughout the event, the company hosted both existing and prospective clients at its booth, solidifying its position as a trusted partner in the logistics industry.

Lodamaster emphasized distinction as producers of telescopic conveyors and tilt tray sorter. Throughout the fair, Lodamaster not only showcased its own products but also presented solutions sourced from its trusted network of suppliers. This comprehensive display highlighted Lodamaster’s dedication to providing clients with a diverse range of options tailored to their specific needs and preferences. The most attractive section of the booth was where the mini AGVs were featured, drawing attention.

Emre Erdem, CEO of Lodamaster, expressed his satisfaction with the company’s presence at the fair, stating, “We are delighted to have had the opportunity to engage with both existing and potential clients at LogiMAT. Our ability to offer a wide range of solutions, coupled with our commitment to exemplary service, sets us apart in the industry.”

As the LogiMAT fair drew to a close, Lodamaster believes it emerged as a frontrunner in the industry, thanks to its unwavering commitment to innovation, customer service, and global collaboration. With a steadfast focus on driving excellence in logistics technology, the company remains poised to help shape the future of the industry and empower businesses worldwide.

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Turkish Logistics Firm Fevzi Gandur Opens Istanbul Airport Warehouse

 

Reusing Pallets Essential to Sustainability Goals

Posted on by David Priestman

The Chairman of the UK National Association of Pallet Distributors (NAPD) has called for supply chain businesses to ensure they have a ‘reuse first’ policy in place for pallets.

As new legislation will be introduced in the UK and EU in 2024, environmental reporting will be mandatory for large businesses and is expected for SMEs by 2026. NAPD Chairman Paul Tait said the many companies that supply products such as food, drink, and pharmaceuticals can make the transition more straightforward by reusing their pallets, which will cut the carbon impact of their supply chains.

“Reuse is a central part of a circular economy and enables businesses to make sizeable savings in their emissions and move closer towards their increasing sustainability obligations,” said Tait. “Wooden pallets are a naturally sustainable product and companies that reuse them in their supply chains extend the environmental benefits further.”

Used pallets are exempt from packaging waste regulations, so businesses using them also cut down administration and cost.

Reusing Pallets

Saleh Hijazi, press officer for NAPD, said: “With regulations including the Sustainability Disclosure Standards (SDS) and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in the UK, and CSRD in Europe, coming into force in the months ahead, it’s imperative that everyone involved in goods supply chains works together to mitigate environmental impact and make businesses greener. Sustainability-focused strategies for supply chains are no longer a ‘nice-to-have’; they are essential to meeting legislative obligations and the demands of our customers.”

NAPD is the UK association for companies that repair pallets for reuse to a high standard. Its members are bound by a code of conduct and provide additional supply chain services to customers.

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Scalable Mobile Robot Conveyancing Tech

Posted on by David Priestman

LexxPluss is investing heavily in the US to provide its autonomous mobile robots (AMR) technology. The Japanese automation solutions provider has recently announced a new US demo space to showcase the capabilities of its flexible robotic fleet solutions and the flagship 30×30 ft facility is located in the Indiana IoT Lab, in Fishers, Indiana.

In addition to the demo space, LexxPluss has established a US subsidiary, opened a new US sales office in Indiana, and is expanding its team. Recent US hires include Business Development Manager Morgan Chang, and Project Manager Sandeep Chilukuri.

With its Lexx500 autonomous mobile robot and LexxFleet, the fleet management system, LexxPluss aims to solve problems by creating sustainability through the use of automation and other technologies. This includes adding value to intralogistics operations by reducing workload and improving the safety of workers at manufacturing, automotive, and logistics sites.

With a range of sensors, a multi sensor guidance system, easy to use interfaces, and open architecture, the Lexx500 AMRs are designed to be highly scalable and interoperable; from a single robot to a fleet of units working together safely and flexibly alongside existing automated systems and human workers. The low upfront cost and ability to transport irregular cargo and large payloads of up to 500 kg is ideally suited to manufacturing and logistics businesses.

Combining dynamism with experience to create sustainable materials handling

LexxPluss was created in 2020 by Founder and CEO Masaya Aso and a team of autonomous technology experts with decades of experience in the robotics and autonomous driving industry in companies such as Bosch, Amazon, and Honda. Its technology has been successfully deployed in Japan and the company was recently chosen by both EY for its Innovative Startup 2024 Award in Japan and by Forbes as one of 100 Japanese startups to watch in 2024.

Having secured Series A funding worth $10.7 million in 2023 for expansion in the US, LexxPluss is now leveraging its expertise and relationships in Japan. The company sees significant potential in the US, with market intelligence agency Interact Analysis forecasting the US mobile robots market will grow at a CAGR of 37% between 2023 and 2027, expanding from $1.1bn to $3.8bn.

Seamless integration, larger payloads and multi-sensor safety

A trio of products will be officially launched by LexxPluss at Automate 2024 in Chicago this May: the Lexx500 AMR, LexxFleet fleet management solution, and LexxTug towing interface. Each of the products being launched in the US has been renamed as part of LexxPluss’ commitment to achieving success in international markets (with the products previously called Hybrid-AMR, Konnectt and WaniGripper).

LexxPluss has equipped its mobile conveyancing robots with superior multi-sensor safety that combines LiDAR sensors, ultrasonic sensors and depth cameras to ensure they can operate safely and collaboratively with a human workforce. The company is also committed to open architecture, making its mobile robots easy to integrate with other systems and simple to maintain on-site.

Announcing the opening of the US demo space, LexxPluss COO, Rizo Itakura, says, “There is huge potential for greater automation in the US. Our products remove barriers to scaling up and integrating automation with existing systems. Customers can start with a single unit, using existing carts and production machinery to generate greater efficiencies and improve the working environment. Interested companies and potential partners are welcome to visit our demo space in Indiana, to learn first-hand how our solutions can help to create sustainable intralogistics operations.”

Morgan Chang, LexxPluss US Business Development Manager, adds, “We are excited to launch our new demo space and see this as part of our commitment to open mechanical design and transparent technical information sharing. This is something that sets LexxPluss apart, offering the highest levels of interoperability with existing systems and operations, alongside our determination to offer high levels of safety, reliability and scalability. I look forward to meeting potential new partners and customers at the LexxPluss stand at Automate 2024 (Booth #3076), where we will be showcasing our technology and officially launching a range of exciting products.”

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Innovations Offering Explosion Protection

Posted on by David Priestman

Linde Material Handling will be presenting innovations from its explosion protection range at ACHEMA. The three electric pallet truck models of the Linde T16 EX to T20 EX series feature compact dimensions and are designed for transporting loads in the tightest of spaces. Another new product on offer for explosion-protected counterbalanced trucks is the artificial intelligence (AI)-based “Reverse Assist Camera” system. It identifies people to the rear of the truck and alerts drivers of potential collisions, providing targeted and gradual warnings.

“Each new explosion-protected truck model from Linde MH is developed from the outset together with the pilot series for the standard version. This allows customers in the chemical, pharmaceutical, cosmetics and food industries to benefit from the technical refinements at an early stage,” explains Elke Karnarski, Product Manager EX-Proof Trucks & Safety Solutions at Linde Material Handling.

Explosion protected equipment

The introduction of the Linde T16 EX to T20 EX series marks the debut of new compact pedestrian pallet trucks on the market. Featuring a robust chassis and reinforced forks, they are designed for loads of up to two tons. The models are available in the 2G/2D and 3G/3D equipment categories for ATEX zones 1/21 and 2/22. The narrow design, tight turning radius and intuitive steering and controls make the trucks quick and easy to maneuver in confined spaces. Explosion protection measures include ignition protection against electrical and mechanical sparks, continuous temperature monitoring of relevant components and precautions to prevent electrostatic charging.

The low-mounted tiller ensures ample safety distance from the operator, while the active foot protection guard and the deep-drawn chassis provide additional protection against injury. Information on important vehicle parameters – such as the battery charge status and the next required service check – is available via the centrally positioned multifunctional display. The Linde EX-Monitoring app displays safety-related readings and provides operators and fleet managers with specific instructions if necessary. At the same time, the application enables preventive, bundled maintenance measures, thus ensuring high operational availability of the vehicles.

AI-based person detection for intelligent accident prevention

With the Linde Reverse Assist Camera, an innovative assistance system is now becoming suitable for use in truck categories 2G/2D (ATEX zone 1/21) and 3G/3D (ATEX zone 2/22). The camera, which was developed using artificial intelligence, has “learned” to distinguish between people and objects. If a person is detected, it emits visual and acoustic warnings, depending on the distance. In addition, an automatic reduction in driving speed can be activated to further minimize the risk of accidents. The display and camera are housed in pressure-resistant enclosures to allow for use in ATEX zone 1/21.

“The demand for safety assistance systems that can be used with explosion-protected industrial trucks has increased noticeably in recent years,” says Product Manager Elke Karnarski. “This is not least due to the fact that in many cases they are part of a mixed fleet with standard trucks. Existing assistance systems should accordingly be installed across all vehicles in order to achieve a uniformly high level of safety,” she explains.

The Linde Safety Guard is certified for ATEX zone 2/22. Equipped with so-called “Truck Units”, the vehicles communicate via signals in the UWB area through racks and can locate each other. If the distance falls below a defined level, the system reduces the driving speed. This technology can also be used to regulate speed zones for entire halls or specific sections using so-called “zone markers”. In addition, the Linde Safety Guard acts as a “gatekeeper”, allowing only EX-protected vehicles to enter the ATEX zones.

Customized solutions for special application scenarios

Customized solutions developed for individual applications are not uncommon for explosion-protected industrial trucks. One example is the “drum cradle”. This specially designed pallet stacker with additional attachments on display at the Linde booth can transport 300-liter drums as well as pick up open drums, tip them and empty the liquid inside. The integrated scales are accurate to 500 grams. Operation of the drum clamping functions is carried out either via a control lever or remotely for optimal visibility during the tipping process.

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Nintendo Europe Opts for WMS

Posted on by David Priestman

Soon, EPG’s LFS warehouse management system will control the material flow for Nintendo Europe. The European headquarters of the Japanese parent company, which produces video games and video game consoles, has been relying on EPG’s solutions since September 2023. Alongside LFS, the TIMESQUARE supply chain control tower will also launch, providing a dashboard for operations.

After initial contact in April 2023, project work began in September 2023. Nintendo of Europe’s decision to implement EPG‘s solutions was made quickly, encouraged by the aptitude of an intercontinental company with years of expertise and a comprehensive Supply Chain Execution Suite. To achieve greater flexibility in the management of its warehouse locations, Nintendo of Europe chose to introduce the LFS warehouse management system.

Game Boy, DS, Wii WMS

The initial focus is on connecting the ERP system and Nintendo’s B2C middleware for an April 2024 roll out in Spain and a June 2024 roll out in the UK. Nintendo of Europe does not manage its warehouse locations independently, but instead relies on logistics service providers. These will also work with LFS and TIMESQUARE in the future. The TIMESQUARE supply chain control tower ensures reliable monitoring and reporting of the logistics service providers in addition to all warehouse movements and defined management KPIs.

To ensure efficient implementation, the execution of this project is agile. The goal is to standardize the day-to-day functionality for Nintendo of Europe. As the project progresses, it will expand to manage the B2B business via LFS in addition to the B2C business.

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Enhanced Transport Solutions for UK-China Trade

Posted on by David Priestman

Recognising the growing demand for seamless import and export services between the UK/Ireland and China, cargo-partner stands as a reliable partner, offering a diverse range of logistics solutions tailored to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes.

With 20 offices in China, Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan and well-established operational teams in Dublin, Manchester, London, Bradford, and Basildon, cargo-partner is ideally positioned to provide seamless import and export solutions between the UK, Ireland, and China.

Today, thousands of companies across the UK and Ireland are capitalising on the opportunities presented by the Chinese market, with this number expected to rise significantly in the coming years.
Leveraging its robust infrastructure, extensive network and growing operations within the UK and Ireland, cargo-partner can ensure the efficient movement of goods from origin to destination via a range of shipping options.

Popular solutions between the regions include sea cargo services such as LCL, FCL and special project transport, as well as cargo-partner’s varied air freight services, which can provide more flexibility and shorter transit times for customers. Furthermore, in light of the current market and transport challenges, the cargo-partner team are continuing to successfully develop and enhance air consol services from Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) and Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) directly to the UK.

UK China Trade

Fergal Keenan, Managing Director Ireland & UK, said: “At cargo-partner, we are committed to empowering businesses with reliable and efficient logistics solutions to navigate the complexities of international trade. With our comprehensive range of services and strategic presence in key locations, we are well-equipped to support businesses in harnessing the opportunities presented by the vibrant Chinese market.

“With over 100 employees based across the UK and Ireland, we have the knowledge and skills to guide local businesses. Whether it’s a small consignment or a large-scale shipment, cargo-partner offers personalised solutions tailored to meet the unique requirements of each customer.”

cargo-partner is also excited to announce that Manager Business Development Georgia Gibson will take on the role of Trade Lane Manager UK – Asia, helping to enhance services between the UK and Asia and ensuring businesses across the UK and Asia have a direct contact.

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Freight Solutions across the Irish Sea

 

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