Published on: February 15, 2025 / update from: February 15, 2025 - Author: Konrad Wolfenstein
Intralogistics 4.0: From Amr to software - these technologies make warehouses really 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 logistical processes. Due to the networking of different systems and components, companies can optimize their material flows, minimize error sources and react to dynamic requirements. A variety of modern technologies enables seamless cooperation and contributes to the automation and digitization of intralogistics. In this article, the most important technological approaches are presented and comprehensively analyzed.
Software solutions to improve interoperability
Fleet management systems
Modern fleet management systems are essential for the coordination of heterogeneous robot fleets and means of transport. Systems such as AnyFleet and comparable solutions offer extensive functions:
- Intelligent material flow control: optimization of transport routes, avoidance of bottlenecks and minimizing empty rides.
- Real-time visualization: location monitoring and state control of the vehicles for a quick reaction to disorders.
- Dynamic route planning: adaptation itself changing process conditions in real time.
- Integration of different manufacturers: enables the administration of AMRS (Autonomous Mobile Robots) and AGVS (automated guided vehicles) in a central system.
Another advantage of these systems is networking with overarching ERP and WMS systems for the complete digitization of the transport processes.
Standardized interfaces and communication protocols
The interoperability of different systems requires uniform communication standards. The following technologies and guidelines have established themselves:
- VDA 5050: A standard for the control of heterogeneous robot fleets in the German automotive industry.
- Massrobotics Interoperability Standard: an American standard for the coordination of 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, which 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 WMS are essential for the control and monitoring of complex warehouse processes. Provide systems such as SAP Extended Warehouse Management (SAP EWM):
- Detailed process illustration: complete documentation of all warehouse movements.
- Serial number tracking: precise tracking of individual products for quality control and traceability.
- Visualization tools: optimization of the warehouse structure through graphic representations.
- Automatic inventory correction: integration of AI-based error detection.
The combination of WMS with AI and IoT technologies can be analyzed in real time and automated.
Hardware solutions to increase interoperability
Uniform charging infrastructures and energy supply
A standardized energy supply is a prerequisite for the smooth operation of AMRS and AGVs. Include modern approaches:
- Inductive charging: wireless charging points such as Etalink from Puls GmbH enable flexible energy supply.
- Automated battery change systems: Reduction of standing times through fast energy supply.
- Uniform charging standards: makes it easier to integrate different vehicle types into a common system.
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Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR)
AMRS revolutionize intralogistics through its adaptability and independence of rigid roads. Advantages advantages:
- Dynamic route adjustment: flexible navigation without predefined paths.
- Cooperation with human workers: safe acting in mixed work environments.
- Combination with other automation systems: enables holistic optimization of intralogistics.
Through AI-supported sensors, AMRS can recognize obstacles and adapt their travel routes in real time to ensure maximum efficiency.
Integrative approaches to interoperability
Holistic interoperability platforms
Companies such as Wiferion, Continental and Synaos rely on overarching platforms that combine various technologies. Core functions of these platforms are:
- Central administration of mixed fleets: control of AMRS, AGVs and other autonomous systems via a uniform interface.
- Automated process analysis: AI-based optimization of transport routes and resource use.
- Compatibility with existing IT infrastructure: integration into existing ERP and WMS systems.
Such platforms help to avoid island solutions and to enable continuous digitization of intralogistics.
Artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize interoperability
AI-based systems can further improve interoperability by enabling real-time data analyzes. Examples of the use of AI in intralogistics:
- Automatic identification of storage bottlenecks: AI recognizes changes in demand at an early stage and adapts order processes.
- Incorrect inventory: Sensor data analysis can automatically detect incorrect stocks and damage.
- Predictive maintenance: Prediction of maintenance needs to avoid downtime.
These technologies contribute to sustainable the efficiency and economy of intralogistics.
## future of interoperable intralogistics
The increasing automation and digitization in intralogistics requires powerful interoperable systems. The combination of standardized interfaces, modern software solutions, autonomous robots and AI-based analysis leads to a highly flexible, efficient and resilient material flow management. Companies that invest in these technologies will benefit in the long term from optimized logistics processes, lower operating costs and increased competitiveness.
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