Korean artificial intelligence and digital transformation provider SK AX has completed the “logistics automation construction” process at a US auto parts production plant, with the deployment of unmanned forklifts (AFR) and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs).

SK AX says it was tasked with helping to stabilise the logistics flow for the company, the process of which had become complicated because of the diversification of completed car orders and the increase in logistics between processes.

“SK AX implemented a 'self-moving logistics system' throughout the factory by putting in unmanned transport vehicles (AMR) and unmanned forklifts so that all logistics processes from semi-finished product transportation to finished product shipment can be carried out automatically without human intervention,” the company states.

SLAM (simultaneous localisation and mapping) technology is applied to the robots, allowing it to identify its location and the most optimal route to move - even when no GPS signal is available.

“It works without any problems even if the location of the movable shelf or cargo changes by using a fixed structure such as a wall to organise a map inside the factory,” the company continues. 

“Through this, an autonomous collaboration environment was prepared where multiple robots share location information with each other and perform work at the same time without collision.”

An AMR control system and AI-based logistics information system were integrated into the factory’s logistics flow, offering real-time data which is fed to the machines.

The South Korean business believes AX logistics automation is set to extend far beyond improving productivity in the future and will, instead, “fundamentally change the cost structure and supply chain management method throughout factory operation”.

“As the logistics flow is completely connected to the digital basis, the location of the parts, the route of movement, and the time of shipment are shared in real time not only within the factory, but also to the headquarters and the customer,” a company statement reads.

“As a result, it is expected that it will have a direct effect on reducing carbon emissions and ensuring sustainability by reducing unnecessary inventory and increasing the accuracy of delivery forecasting, and adjusting energy usage based on demand.”