With the release of its Fleetware management software, Sorion enables seamless integration of robots into the manufacturing environment.
Until recently, robots have mainly been used in a fixed manner, with each robot performing a simple, repetitive task. While this approach is suitable for many logistics and production applications, it cannot be applied in just-in-time manufacturing environments, where product variability and sequencing demand a dynamic route/mission assignment.
For example, in a production environment AMRs can be used to move sub-assemblies and components between manufacturing cells. This requires a flexible management system for mission assignment, with real time adaptation to changing demands: on-route mission reassignment/cancellation. Sorion’s Fleetware suite was designed to overcome this challenge.
The system interfaces to customer factory systems to receive build information and manages the assignment of missions by logistic priority.
By continuously monitoring and coordinating a fleet of up to 100 AMRs, Fleetware helps robots work together as a team to solve complex tasks. It controls the movements of robots for an optimised workflow while allowing for charging and monitoring the state of the system.
This automated workflow minimises errors on the production line and frees up a significant amount of time for the employees to focus on more meaningful tasks.
Using the Fleetware simulation tool, the environment can be tested and validated prior to the installation of physical equipment and robots, saving time and resources. Furthermore, the impact of changes to layout and capacity can be tested without disturbing the actual system.
The software is under continuous development. Through close collaboration with robot manufacturers and its customers, Sorion are constantly improving the solution to meet the evolving needs of the industry.
Sorion www.sorion.co.uk