Intralogistics 4.0: From AMR to software – These technologies make warehouses truly smart – and interoperable – Image: Xpert.Digital
Which technologies support interoperability in intralogistics?
Technologies to support interoperability in intralogistics
Interoperability in intralogistics plays a crucial role in the efficiency and flexibility of logistics processes. By networking different systems and components, companies can optimize their material flows, minimize sources of error, and respond to dynamic requirements. A variety of modern technologies enable this seamless collaboration and contribute to the automation and digitalization of intralogistics. This article presents and comprehensively analyzes the most important technological approaches.
Software solutions to improve interoperability
Fleet management systems
Modern fleet management systems are essential for coordinating heterogeneous fleets of robots and transport vehicles. Systems like AnyFleet and similar solutions offer extensive functionality:
- Intelligent material flow control: optimization of transport routes, avoidance of bottlenecks and minimization of empty runs.
- Real-time visualization: Location monitoring and condition control of vehicles for rapid response to malfunctions.
- Dynamic route planning: Adaptation to changing process conditions in real time.
- Integration of different manufacturers: Enables the management of AMRs (Autonomous Mobile Robots) and AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles) in a central system.
Another advantage of these systems is the networking with higher-level ERP and WMS systems for the complete digitization of transport processes.
Standardized interfaces and communication protocols
Interoperability between different systems requires uniform communication standards. The following technologies and guidelines have become established:
- VDA 5050: A standard for controlling heterogeneous robot fleets in the German automotive industry.
- Mass Robotics Interoperability Standard: A US standard for coordinating AMRs.
- REST API and MQTT: Web-based interfaces that enable seamless data exchange between systems and machines.
- OPC UA: A cross-manufacturer protocol for industrial automation that ensures platform-independent communication between machines, sensors and IT systems.
These standards facilitate the integration of new technologies and increase the flexibility of logistics processes.
Warehouse management systems (WMS)
Modern warehouse management systems (WMS) are essential for controlling and monitoring complex warehouse processes. Systems like SAP Extended Warehouse Management (SAP EWM) offer:
- Detailed process mapping: Complete documentation of all warehouse movements.
- Serial number tracking: Precise tracking of individual products for quality control and traceability.
- Visualization tools: Optimization of warehouse structure through graphical representations.
- Automatic inventory correction: Integration of AI-supported error detection.
By combining WMS with AI and IoT technologies, inventory levels can be analyzed in real time and adjusted automatically.
Hardware solutions to increase interoperability
Standardized charging infrastructure and energy supply
A standardized power supply is a prerequisite for the smooth operation of AMRs and AGVs. Modern approaches include:
- Inductive charging: Wireless charging points such as etaLINK from PULS GmbH enable a flexible energy supply.
- Automated battery swapping systems: Reduction of downtime through rapid energy supply.
- Uniform charging standards: Facilitate the integration of different vehicle types into a common system.
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Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR)
AMRs are revolutionizing intralogistics through their adaptability and independence from rigid pathways. Advantages include:
- Dynamic route adjustment: Flexible navigation without predefined paths.
- Collaboration with human workers: Safe operation in mixed work environments.
- Compatibility with other automation systems: Enables holistic optimization of intralogistics.
AI-powered sensors enable AMRs to detect obstacles and adjust their routes in real time to ensure maximum efficiency.
Integrative approaches to interoperability
Holistic interoperability platforms
Companies like Wiferion, Continental, and Synaos rely on overarching platforms that combine various technologies. Key functions of these platforms include:
- Centralized management of mixed fleets: Control of AMRs, AGVs and other autonomous systems via a single interface.
- Automated process analysis: AI-supported optimization of transport routes and resource utilization.
- Compatibility with existing IT infrastructure: Integration into existing ERP and WMS systems.
Such platforms help to avoid isolated solutions and enable end-to-end digitalization of intralogistics.
Artificial intelligence (AI) for optimizing interoperability
AI-based systems can further improve interoperability by enabling real-time data analysis. Examples of AI applications in intralogistics include:
- Automatic identification of stock shortages: AI detects changes in demand early and adjusts ordering processes.
- Out-of-stock detection: Through sensor data analysis, out-of-stock items and damage can be automatically detected.
- Predictive Maintenance: Forecasting maintenance needs to avoid downtime.
These technologies contribute to sustainably increasing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of intralogistics.
## Future of interoperable intralogistics
The increasing automation and digitalization of intralogistics demands high-performance, interoperable systems. The combination of standardized interfaces, modern software solutions, autonomous robots, and AI-supported analysis leads to highly flexible, efficient, and resilient material flow management. Companies investing in these technologies will benefit in the long term from optimized logistics processes, lower operating costs, and increased competitiveness.
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