What does idealworks offer?
The idealworks robotics ecosystem enables the automation of a wide range of intralogistics processes thanks to its scalability and flexibility. It offers innovative robotics solutions for automated intralogistics, such as the CE-certified AMR iw.hub and the AI software stack iw.os, which can also be used as an operating system on partner robots. The core of the robotics ecosystem is the intelligent automation platform AnyFleet, which can be used to control different robots (AMRs and AGVs), IoT devices and software integrations (ERP, WMS) centrally.
Thanks to its expertise in simulation, idealworks offers access to high-precision simulation technology and the ability to create digital twins using the ScanBot, which shortens the implementation time of robotic systems and improves needs-based design and planning. idealworks uses such components to empower the logistics of the future and revolutionize intralogistics in various industries in national and international markets.
What possibility is there to experience the idealworks robotics ecosystem in advance?
Prospects have several ways to experience our robotics ecosystem upfront. In order to get an impression of our robotics ecosystem under real-world conditions, we give our interested clients the opportunity to visit us on-site at our showroom and in a BMW Group production plant. Further, demo days can be scheduled at clients’ sites, allowing them to test our solution at their facilities before making a final purchase decision.
What does VDA5050 stand for?
VDA 5050 is a standardized interface that enables unified communication between AGVs/AMRs and fleet management software, regardless of the robot manufacturer. VDA 5050 is the result of a collaboration between the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) and the Materials Handling and Intralogistics Association of the German Engineering Federation (VDMA) in cooperation with the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT).
What are the costs to implement the idealworks’ ecosystem?
We offer several pricing models that are tailored to the individual requirements of our customers, just like our solutions. Feel free to contact us and we will create a suitable offer for you.
What does the CE-certification stand for?
A product may only be sold in the EU if it carries the CE mark. idealworks complies with all relevant standards in accordance with the EC Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC of May 17, 2006, Annex II 1. A, thus ensuring the necessary safety, health and environmental protection. We work closely with external experts to ensure that our products are always up to date with the latest technology and meet all requirements.
What is AnyFleet?
AnyFleet optimizes automated processes in connected industrial facilities and is a key component of our holistic solution. As an intelligent automation platform, it functions as fleet management software and enables the live monitoring of logistic processes. By integrating third-party devices – such as AMRs or AGVs – via the standardized communication interface VDA 5050, AnyFleet becomes an efficient interface between different automation components. AnyFleet’s traffic management system is able to handle complex situations by detecting and preventing collisions.
Is it possible for a user to make adjustments to the map and missions?
During the initial implementation phase or pilot project, our deployment team works on a highly efficient layout and job design to automate the customer’s processes on site. To ensure that the layout can be adapted independently, if necessary, our customers receive training and access to all the necessary information. idealworks also always provides a contact person who can help at every step. It depends on the manufacturer whether third-party robots can be used for customization. AnyFleet’s user interface is extremely user-friendly and intuitive.
Can third-party devices (forklifts, AMRs, IoT-devices etc.) be integrated with AnyFleet?
Our mission is to provide the logistics of the future, with safe operations and optimized material flows. To achieve this, our intelligent automation platform connects with various third-party devices. Thanks to the standardized communication interface VDA 5050, various AMRs and AGVs can be integrated into AnyFleet. In addition, IoT devices such as doors, sensors and traffic lights as well as computer systems such as WMS and ERP can also be integrated into AnyFleet. This ensures that all devices and systems in the logistics chain are seamlessly connected and can work together smoothly.
Does AnyFleet allow for data output and analysis?
AnyFleet’s reporting tool provides a variety of charts and reports, e.g. for the number of completed and canceled orders, the order duration and the device utilization. Data can be retrieved quickly using intuitive filter options.
What can I see on the AnyFleet map?
The AnyFleet map shows a representation of the operating environment of the devices. It records all relevant information, such as pick-up and drop-off locations, parking spaces, charging points, restricted areas, traffic rules and much more. The map also shows all devices in use, including their current positions and planned routes.
How does the communication between WMS/ERP and AnyFleet work?
With AnyFleet, external APIs can be used to send requests from a specific system such as a Warehouse Management System (WMS) or Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP). For example, IT specialists can implement a script to trigger orders and track their status via APIs to automatically record goods movements in the WMS.
What is the difference between an AGV and an AMR?
The main difference between an AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) and an AMR (Autonomous Mobile Robot) is that the AMR uses free navigation, whereas the AGV uses fixed localization elements such as QR codes, magnetic strips or rails.
As an AMR, the iw.hub calculates its position using sensor data and environmental information. It only uses the information from its built-in sensors and drives autonomously. Since no changes to the infrastructure are required for implementation, the iw.hub can already carry out its first orders within the first two to three days.
What are the key features of the iw.hub?
The CE-certified AMR, iw.hub, is a key component of idealworks’ robotics ecosystem. Thanks to the SLAM technology, the iw.hub navigates autonomously in mixed traffic and highly complex environments. Its integrated software allows the iw.hub to detect and safely avoid obstacles.
The AMR covers a wide range of individual customer needs, allowing it to serve a variety of use cases and respond flexibly to different requirements. With a speed of 8 km/h (5 mph), the iw.hub can autonomously pick up, transport and deliver payloads of up to 1,000 kg (2,200 lbs).
The high degree of system accessibility (>98.5%) and the large-size battery enable round-the-clock operation and thus three-shift operation, even in critical areas such as belt supply in the automotive industry.
What does SLAM mean?
SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) is a technology used for the deployment of autonomous vehicles, for example an AMR in a dynamic environment.
The position and orientation of the robot is determined using wheel rotations and angles (odometry), and current sensor data is compared with the navigation map. This allows an AMR with SLAM to navigate autonomously without any additional effort.
Why is there an additional camera for the detection of load carriers?
The additional camera enables a high degree of flexibility, as it can also detect load carriers that are not optimally positioned. This means that the iw.hub can align itself accordingly and also pick them up with ease.
The interaction between the laser scanner and the camera enables a more precise and faster detection and pick-up process for maximum process efficiency.
How many iw.hubs are currently in productive use?
Currently, more than 1000 iw.hubs are in use at several BMW production sites and at customers such as Zalando, Dräxlmeier, Purem by Eberspächer and Geis.
How can it be insured that the iw.hub does not block escape routes or fire doors?
In case of fire, the incident must be reported to AnyFleet. This occurs by activating the emergency mode in AnyFleet or via the emergency protocol API. The system immediately activates the emergency protocol: All robots are sent to predefined parking lots and designated emergency points or stopped (depending on the type of emergency protocol selected). This ensures that the devices do not block paths and doorways.
What is the pallet dock solution?
Our Pallet Dock solution ensures pallets are transported efficiently. It consists of two components: the Pallet Dock Extension and the Pallet Dock.
The Pallet Extension makes the iw.hub compatible with pallets such as EPAL, IPAL and pallet cages. This allows the iw.hub to connect to roller conveyors or stationary pallet docks. As roller conveyors vary in height, the Pallet Extension is also available in different heights. At the stationary pallet dock, the iw.hub can pick up or drop off pallets with the Pallet Dock Extension.
What makes partnering with idealworks unique?
After successfully onboarding a new partner solution, the partner becomes part of the idealworks’ robotics ecosystem. This means that the partner will be included in our service portfolio and made available to all our customers. Our modular approach enables our customers to activate a solution on demand, ensuring the shortest possible implementation times.
What are the steps in the partnership development process?
We want to provide our customers with the most flexible robotics ecosystem. To do this, we pay attention to their needs and at the same time look for innovative technologies that effectively integrate with the AnyFleet system.
To ensure a win-win situation for all parties involved, all relevant business and technical aspects are evaluated when establishing a partnership.
Ideally, specific customer requirements are already considered to create an industry-wide solution via a standardized AnyFleet onboarding process.
What mobile robot solutions can be integrated into AnyFleet?
Our fleet management system AnyFleet connects mobile robot systems from a wide range of manufacturers. If the robot can be integrated via the VDA 5050 standard, the full functionality for AMRs is generally retained. In the case of AGVs, the functionality may be restricted. Either way, we work together to utilize the full potential of the mobile partner robot and ensure full controllability through AnyFleet.
Similar to the iw.hub, AnyFleet complements the partner’s mobile robotics solution with state-of-the-art traffic management and fleet optimization solutions and creates a unified user interface.
What industry standards are used?
AnyFleet is based on the fundamental principle of standardization so that all interfaces to other components are unified. For example, the VDA 5050 protocol is used for the integration of mobile robots.
