Robotics

Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) or mobile robots support employees in manual processes in a large variety of areas. With increasing digitization, FTF solutions are becoming more and more widespread. However, the automation of logistics processes today still requires a wide array of specific competencies. From integration into existing logistics processes to the mapping of operation-specific processes, the Robotics and Cognitive Systems department offers expertise and solutions from one/first source. From the top level of order management and coordination of FTF, to the planning of safe driving maneuvers, to the lowest level of environmental awareness and localization.

 

Our innovative fleet management system (FMS) solutions provide scalable and dynamic coordination of heterogeneous FTF fleets. Efficient assignment of jobs to individual robots takes place as well as cooperative path planning/routing of the robot fleet, configurable according to optimality criteria. Standardized interfaces such as VDA 5050 are supported for uniform control of a heterogeneous robot fleet.  

 

On the level of local robot control, we develop procedures for safe maneuvering in dynamic environments. We take unforeseen static obstacles and other FTFs into account and ensure safe cooperation with humans. 

 

The basis for path planning is a map of the environment, which we record using state-of-the-art optical sensors such as laser scanners or 2D/3D cameras. On the basis of that map and state-of-the-art SLAM algorithms, localization in dynamic environments can be performed while simultaneously updating the map of the environment.

 

On the basis of recorded maps, we offer procedures for automated modeling of the environment's representation and take robot-specific properties into account. Based on the model, the FMS can perform optimal planning. Compared to conventional methods, automated model building leads to a significant reduction in commissioning time, which can contribute to a considerable reduction in costs.