Automate 2024: AFORMIC to showcase low profile AMRs

Autonomous intralogistics solutions provider AFORMIC recently announced it will showcase its autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) for flexible manufacturing and warehousing at Automate 2024 in booth 1019. The trade show is being held May 6-9 at the McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago, Illinois. Attendance is free.

A3 said this year’s show is the biggest yet, featuring more than 365,000 square feet of exhibit space, over 800 exhibitors, and an expected 30,000 registrants, with learning and networking opportunities. Attendees will be able to see the latest in robotics, machine vision, artificial intelligence (AI), and motion control.

AFORMIC said its smart robotics solution is a choice for real-time intralogistics management, providing automation in material handling to reduce operational expenses and increase efficiency in manufacturing and warehouse processes. The solution includes an AI-powered integrated software management system called Qursor, as well as customized AFORMIC F-series AMRs. The company will showcase its solution, including their latest NextGen AMR models, at Booth 1019 during Automate 2024.

“AFORMIC offers end-to-end solutions that include robotics, innovative technology, and software from a single source,” said Tim Meyer, vice president of AFORMIC. ‘Understanding the potential of Industry 4.0, we have designed a solution that not only automates the flow of materials within the company, but also allows for changing the logic of the production process itself.”

Simulation used to test and optimize AMR deployments

During Automate 2024, the AFORMIC will showcase its latest models of AMRs from its F series, including the F12, a safe, low-profile AMR designed for automating transportation operations within manufacturing plants. With a maximum payload of 800 kg, or 1,760 pounds, and a speed of 1.5 meters per second, or 3.4 miles per hour, AFORMIC said the robot offers ergonomic and efficient handling of complex logistics processes.

AFORMIC’s robots are implemented using process simulation to test and optimize their behavior in virtual environments. AFORMIC’s AMRs can move materials and products around a factory floor, adapting to changing production needs and minimizing human intervention.

“Customization applies to both the software system and the mobile robots from the AFORMIC AMRs family, as well as other devices and equipment that are part of the vehicle’s setup,” added Meyer. “We can indeed integrate our solution with the entire factory and warehouse environment, including MES/WMS systems, the traffic control system, access management to special zones, and many other processes.”

Thanks to artificial intelligence and machine learning methods, AFORMIC AMR vehicles can be autonomously managed, without operator supervision, by the Qursor fleet management system. This software solution ensures smooth communication with any production and warehouse management systems (WMS), as well as real-time process monitoring.

Want to learn more about fleet management? This article was featured in the June 2024 Robotics 24/7 Special Focus Issue titled "Orchestrating mobile robot fleets for success."