End-to-end automation with new Linde trucks

Renewed internal transport range - ideal for automating warehouse processes.

Intralogistics specialist Linde Material Handling (MH) has expanded its range of automated material handling. This completes their updated product portfolio. A notable addition to the range is the automated Linde K-MATIC k VNA truck. "If customers exclusively store and retrieve full pallets in high racking, they no longer need to purchase a manually operated truck with this automated narrow aisle truck," explained Pascal Kuster, Sales Trainer Automated Guided Vehicles at Linde MH. Other trucks that will be introduced to the market are the Linde R-MATIC k reach truck and the Linde L-MATIC AC k stacker with counterweight and cantilever forks. These series production models are designed to maximize the benefits of automation projects with Linde MH. This reduces planning and implementation times while ensuring greater efficiency and lower costs.

"With the new models, the already launched automated Linde L-MATIC HD k-stacker and the fully automated compact Linde L-MATIC Core variant, we can automate customers' material flow processes more easily and cost-effectively while making them more service-oriented and flexible for expansion," said Pascal Kuster. The "toolbox" used by Linde MH's automation planners to develop these concepts includes high-quality, energy-efficient and easy-to-program AGVs and AMRs. "Our new trucks play a key role in our automation solutions. However, proper project planning and preparation are just as crucial to success," Kuster emphasizes. "After all, our customers invest in a solution, not just a product." The standardization of processes is an essential prerequisite for any automation project. In this regard, it is important to note that processes with manual trucks cannot always be replaced one-to-one with an AGV variant of this truck. For example: if a reach truck driver was previously also responsible for transporting goods from the receiving area to the high-bay racks, it may be more efficient in the automated system to use an automated stacker for this sub-process in order to increase throughput and optimize pallet handling costs per hour.

Linde K-MATIC k: A new generation of trucks for efficient automation

The larger the product portfolio, the more opportunities arise for developing automation solutions tailored precisely to customers' specific needs. Linde MH profiles itself in this regard by offering the most comprehensive range of trucks in the industry. The Linde K-MATIC k belongs to the top of warehouse technology. With a payload of 1.5 tons and a maximum lift height of 14.5 meters, this narrow-aisle truck (VNA) is designed to maximize warehouse capacity. "Since the truck is mainly used in aisles between racks, an automated truck is a wise choice," explains Sales Trainer Pascal Kuster. "This allows employees to concentrate on higher value-added activities."

The Linde R-MATIC k reach truck is ideal for automated replenishment in warehouse areas with wide aisles. Three models are available, with load capacities of up to 2.3 tons. To optimally adapt the trucks to individual needs, they can be equipped with a wide choice of modular mast variants, with a maximum lift height of up to 10 meters. Automated shuttle and storage solutions complete the comprehensive product range.

Innovative technology increases productivity

Both VNA trucks and reach trucks use the latest reflector technology for navigation. They are equipped with a sensor-controlled pallet positioning system with "intelligent" forks to accurately store and retrieve suitable load carriers such as europallets, mesh containers and CHEP pallets. The system not only detects whether a racking location is empty, but also identifies any obstacles. If pallets are misaligned, the forks automatically adjust. In addition, the system ensures that goods are accurately placed in the rack before the forks are pulled out of the load carrier. The trucks are powered by lead-acid batteries or the latest generation of lithium-ion batteries for maximum energy efficiency. Both battery types can be combined with all available manual or automatic charging options. A clear, colored touch screen simplifies communication between man and machine and makes entering control commands easier. Numerous standard functions, such as 360° scanners, emergency stop switches, lights and acoustic signals, ensure maximum operating safety. These functions can be supplemented by optional features, including 2D curtain lasers and other lighting solutions such as BlueSpot and red warning lines on the ground next to the truck.

Integrated software platform MATIC:move

All new trucks have been developed and designed in-house by Linde to map key intralogistics processes from start to finish. VNA trucks and reach trucks are digitally connected to stackers. Automated trucks are controlled via the unified user interface of the Linde software platform MATIC:move (or MATIC:move+), which enables real-time monitoring, display of open orders, predictive maintenance and standardized interfacing with WMS and ERP systems. In addition, the Linde Warehouse Manager facilitates the linking of automated and manual trucks and their integration into operational safety assistance systems such as the Linde Safety Guard. "However, cooperation with our customers is an important factor for success," emphasizes Pascal Kuster, automation expert at Linde MH. "We offer decision makers comprehensive support throughout the entire process, from the concept phase to implementation. We help standardize processes, define key performance indicators and simulate material flows using our digital twin. This approach provides a solid foundation for successful project completion and a quick return on investment. And after commissioning, experienced service technicians ensure that customers can count on fast response times for maintenance and repairs."