Dematic will upgrade warehouse automation for Fonterra, New Zealand’s leading dairy co-operative, with the delivery of new Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs).

Fonterra has operated with AGVs since 2009 to automate time-consuming and highly repetitive tasks within its manufacturing facility.

The new AGVs feature Dematic software that improves usability and will allow Fonterra to better manage operations throughout the key manufacturing facility in Edendale. The AGVs will transport and feed pallets of raw materials into production subsystems as well as handle finished outbound pallets. They will work to prevent bottlenecks to create a streamlined process where products can flow seamlessly, without the need for manual handling. 

“Our AGV systems are tailor-designed to navigate any production and warehouse space with a laser-guidance system, using on-board hazard detection to avoid collisions,” says Tony Raggio, general manager of sales, mobile automation, Dematic. “This high-end navigation allows them to move around a facility optimally and safely.

“Rotating laser scanners mounted on top of the AGVs measure angles and distances to reflectors mounted on the surrounding walls within the facility. The AGVs then calculate a position based on this information, together with speed and steer encoders to operate with a repeatable accuracy of ±5 mm.”

Additionally, the AGVs can drive themselves onto charging floor plates at times of inactivity to be charged using the automated opportunity charging function. 

Dematic argues that the use of automation with AGVs creates a safer workplace and reduces mistakes that can lead to damaged products. AGVs streamline on-the-floor operations to increase the efficiency of the supply chain.