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Pallet Shuttle integration with fork-equipped AGVs and AMRs
Total control via Easy WMS of Pallet Shuttle systems operated by a fork-equipped AGV or AMR
Total automation of Pallet Shuttle operations
A new Easy WMS capability enables the integration of Interlake Mecalux’s Pallet Shuttle system with fork-equipped automated guided vehicles (AGVs) or autonomous mobile robots (AMRs). Through this application, Easy WMS comprehensively manages all warehouse operations, including the control of AGVs and AMRs — regardless of manufacturer. The result is perfect synchronization between the Pallet Shuttle and autonomous handling equipment, delivering a fully automated storage solution.
The new functionality offers several advantages:
- Seamless integration. Mecalux has developed a communication protocol that ensures Easy WMS can connect with any compatible AGV or AMR. This simplifies integration with equipment from multiple suppliers, allowing users to choose the devices that best suit their needs.
- Fast implementation. Integration projects with AGVs and AMRs are streamlined, drastically reducing commissioning times. This efficiency minimizes risk and lowers implementation costs.
- Maximum automation. Replacing traditional operator-driven forklifts with AGVs or AMRs enables fully automated Pallet Shuttle system operations — from pallet loading and unloading to relocating shuttles within the racking.
- Guaranteed scalability. New AGVs can be added, including devices from different providers. This flexibility ensures adaptation to meet growing operational demands and to configure fleets accordingly.
AGV/AMR functionalities supported by Easy WMS in the Pallet Shuttle system
Through this integration, Easy WMS coordinates tasks and optimizes work sequences for fork-equipped AGVs or AMRs. These machines handle all Pallet Shuttle system operations:
- Pallet shuttle movements from one storage location to another.
- Pallet shuttle transport from storage locations to battery charging stations.
- Pallet shuttle transfers from battery charging stations to storage locations.
- Pallet shuttle movements from an AGV or AMR to storage locations or battery charging stations.
- Pallet transport from input positions to storage locations via a pallet shuttle.
- Pallet transfers from storage locations (aided by the shuttle) to output positions.
Use cases
Main use cases for integrating the Pallet Shuttle system with fork-equipped AGVs and AMRs.
| Use case | Description | Hardware requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Pallet shuttle retrieval and placement with an AGV | Once a pallet shuttle is assigned to perform a task, an AGV is dispatched to remove it from its current channel and deposit it in the target channel. | PC |
| Pallet shuttle battery management | When a pallet shuttle has a low battery, an AGV task is automatically created to transport the unit to a charging station. Similarly, when charging is complete, a task is created for the AGV to retrieve the shuttle from the charging station. | PC |
| Management of AGV/Pallet Shuttle handling errors | Errors can occur while an AGV is loading or unloading a pallet shuttle. These may result from issues with the location (e.g., loading/unloading failures) or from pallet shuttle error indicators being triggered. | PC |
| AGV/Pallet Shuttle task cancellation | Canceling of AGV jobs that involve moving a pallet shuttle. | PC |