Intelligent warehouse company, Dematic, is rolling out its new end-to-end automation solution at an Australian meat processing facility.
The deployment combines a Dematic Multishuttle Meat Buffer system with an automated pallet storage and retrieval system, which features the first installation of the company’s freezer-rated, high-reach automated guided vehicles (AGVs).
Managed and controlled by Dematic software, the Multishuttle Meat Buffer system can operate in frozen and chilled environments, and allows for the transfer of product cartons between aisles without the use of a traditional conveyor system.
Dematic business development manager, Soeren Schauki, said that Australian meat processing facilities are faced with a range of challenges.
“Cold storage facilities are harsh environments for workers, leading to the risk of worker injuries, difficulties in sourcing labour, and time lost in managing complex occupational health and safety issues,” he said.
“Our new end-to-end automation solution offers the meat processing industry an answer to overcoming these challenges, with equipment that is rated for around-the-clock operation in cold storage environments and presents minimal risk to workers.”
Dematic recently released its third generation AGVs, which are designed and built in Australia, and currently available only in the Asia-Pacific region. The AGV systems limit occupational health and safety risks and increase productivity, by picking and transporting products whilst operating in temperatures down to -25°C.
The self-charging AGVs feature high-precision laser guidance and the associated Dematic software provides full track-and-trace capabilities for every carton of every SKU.
Dematic is Australia’s only manufacturer of freezer rated AGVs, and its fleet was recently updated in line with Australian Standard 5144-4.
Dematic ANZ general manager sales for mobile automation, Tony Raggio, said that meat processing facilities are ideal candidates for full automation, not only to address labour challenges in cold storage and freezer environments, but also to enhance accuracy, traceability, and control of perishable food products.
“As a result, Dematic is experiencing increased demand for comprehensive solutions that incorporate multiple automation technologies,” he said.
“Our new end-to-end automation solution, which combines the Dematic Multishuttle Meat Buffer system with our freezer-rated AGV-based storage and retrieval system, has been developed to meet this demand in the Australian market.”
