Michelin adopts sustainable mobile shuttle robot for continuous operation
Michelin "Cuneo" Plant
In order to optimize the transport and handling system of finished products at its Cuneo plant in Italy, tire giant Michelin was looking for a special solution. Specifically, this is a new material handling system that will replace the cars used to transfer tires from the end of the production center to the logistics center, as well as a forklift with a driver that performs loading and unloading operations, entry and body Leaving the body of the forklift.
Due to the configuration of the factory that could not use conventional handling systems, Michelin asked different suppliers to come up with possible handling solutions. Global system integrator Giordano & C. faced the challenge and worked with Esatroll to provide the vehicle with the right features. Giordano & C. then turned to Rockwell Automation, a company with which to build a long-term solid partnership. In fact, for the management of AGVs, it is essential to integrate the AGV system with the Level 2 communication system that Rockwell Automation ships as standard in Michelin factories. At first glance, one might think of a simple outsourced warehouse logistics, managed with AGVs. In fact, we have peculiarities that are not often found in other similar projects. First, the large distance between the production and logistics hubs required a significant construction effort.
Unlike other AGVs, the mechanical properties of these AGVs make them similar to trucks/Tirs on the road, so they are equipped with axles, wheels, frames, etc. Software represents another differentiating element, and the vehicles are equipped with navigation systems that allow them to cope with any atmospheric factors. In addition, the navigation control system is connected to Rockwell Automation's Level 2 communications, allowing the shuttle to operate based on commands received directly from this central system. All control panels at the loading dock and the entire interface between the factory floor 2 and the fleet are managed through technology provided by Rockwell Automation, enabling the connection between the production and transportation parts of the company. Once production is complete, Level 2 communicates according to the rules established by the customer and integrated in the navigation system by Giordano & C. that there is material to be loaded and unloaded at intervals indicated by the end of the production rod. In another specific bay in the logistics hub. Once the operation is complete, the information is sent to Level 2 so that Michelin is always aware of the number of pallets in stock. There is material to be loaded at a specified interval within the end of the production center and unloaded at another specified interval in the logistics center. Once the operation is complete, the information is sent to Level 2 so that Michelin is always aware of the number of pallets in stock. There is material to be loaded at a specified interval within the end of the production center and unloaded at another specified interval in the logistics center. Once the operation is complete, the information is sent to Level 2 so that Michelin is always aware of the number of pallets in stock.
Thanks to the use of advanced digital technology, Michelin was able to reduce its annual CO2 emissions by 50 tons, in particular by choosing to use shuttles with electric motors, whose batteries are charged during the loading and unloading phases, which makes it possible to achieve the goal of zero emissions. Another important result achieved is that the level of safety at work has also increased from a communication point of view. Rockwell Automation's Silver Technology Partner ProSoft Technology's wireless gateway technology enables a completely simple transfer of safety information between the shuttle and the Level 2 surveillance system via the Cip safety protocol.