Fixed path: Manufacturer deploys robotic industrial trucks
By deploying a fleet of robotic industrial trucks, AISIN cut costs, reduced inventory and improved safety.
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Currently, two robotic tow tractors are used to transport product between manufacturing processes. Three others transport inbound freight from the support facility and deliver within the manufacturing area. Four robotic double pallet trucks move product from manufacturing to shipping. Another robotic single pallet truck with towing attachment transports empty racks on carts to the manufacturing line and brings finished product back to the finished goods store.
The robots provide a consistent flow of internal component movement as well as inventory reduction due to more frequent deliveries to the manufacturing lines. Employees can plan and manage the robots more efficiently because they know precisely when the robots will return to their area. This knowledge greatly reduces cycle time in transferring component parts from the manufacturing area to the receiving dock. It also improves the transportation of finished goods from storage to shipping.
“[The robotic trucks] make it easy for the operator out on the shop floor to make changes, and in an environment like ours, that is very important,” says Mark Hamilton, transportation and logistics specialist. “The robots are user-friendly in all aspects, from training, to normal day-to-day operation of the vehicle.”
The company has enjoyed an overall reduction in materials handling cost, with the robots virtually eliminating product damage, facility damage, accidents and injuries. The robots have also enabled the company to move team members into more value-added jobs.
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