Mobile Cobot Revolution: Edge Edition working seamlessly with iCart AGV
UK company ADM Automation has mounted Kassow Robots’ first Edge Edition cobot to its iCart AGV. The mobile unit picks boxes with parts from the warehouse and brings them to operators for assembly. The proof-of-concept application was set up in a factory in Durham, UK.
Larger AGVs and traditional forklift trucks are used in factories for heavy loads and complex tasks, due to safety and space limitations. While a factory shop may appear to be a simple operation, it is in fact the result of highly advanced planning. In pursuit of enhanced productivity, the manufacturer is exploring ways to reduce reliance on forklifts and instead invest in automation solutions that can work in tandem with employees. They have been working on this project with ADM Automation, the UK-based manufacturer of iCart AGVs. iCart offers a range of autonomous carts capable of towing payloads of up to 2 tonnes. iCarts are already being successfully used in the facility.
The iCart’s Mk2 AGV was equipped with KR1205 Edge Edition cobot from Kassow Robots, providing customer a first test of this highly flexible collaborative mobile solution.
One of the challenges with putting a robot on a AGV is the compactness. Kassow Robots with integrated controller and the 7th axis brings us the flexibility that we need for a range of different applications. This is a major step forward in robotics. Putting a cobot on wheels is a dream come true, says Chris Smith, Managing Director of ADM Automation.
In the model application, the iCart with a KR1205 mounted on picks up components from the warehouse and delivers them to the final assembly. Currently, employees must walk a few hundred meters to the warehouse locations over multiple times during their shift, which is not convenient or adding value. The iCart navigates to the designated picking location, positions a custom-made gripper underneath the box, lifts it, and transports it across the factory to the workbench. The KR1205 Edge Edition is powered by iCart’s onboard battery. One of the key advantages is the low power consumption, which easily exceeds 6-7 hours under full utilization.
The customer is continually seeking ways to enhance the productivity of its manufacturing facility. Solutions such as those provided by iCart enable greater efficiency while also reducing potential safety hazards for employees due to high traffic on the shop floor. The customer and ADM Automation are continuously working together to integrate additional
mobile solutions that address intralogistics challenges. The pilot integration of Kassow Robots Edge Edition on the iCart AGV proves a solid foundation for future projects.