Lean operations require flexible, reconfigurable solutions to minimize waste and maximize efficiency. Traditional automated solutions, however, such as AGVs, AGCs, and conveyors are typically not flexible enough for today’s lean operations; inefficiencies, waste, and bottlenecks persist. Clearpath Robotics has embraced the challenges associated with traditional materials handling operation to meet market demands. It has engineered a fully autonomous material transport solution for industrial centers called OTTO, a self-driving vehicle designed for large material transport.
Clearpath is proud to make OTTO’s debut at RoboBusiness 2015!
OTTO was designed to fit market needs. In doing so, the Clearpath team took into account three major areas that have either served as a pain point for the industry or are of great concern when evaluating materials movement equipment:
1) Payload capacity: OTTO has a payload capacity of 1500 kg — that’s roughly three elephants! Needless to say, it is designed with industry-rated components and ruggedized to withstand the rigors of the harshest working environments. It can also handle a breadth of payloads, from cement blocks to skids of retail merchandise.
2) Safe to work with people: Dynamic path planning enables effortless and safe navigation while working with your team. OTTO politely communicates its movements through a quiet yet informative LED display. Movements are indicated through a perceptive lighting display made of LEDs express movements such as obstacle avoidance, docking, and turning a corner. OTTO isn’t an AGV that interrupts workflow when a person walks by; rather, it is an intelligent system that collaborates with team members on the warehouse floor.
3) Infrastructure-free navigation: OTTO is intelligent — the system does not require bar-codes, tape, or overhead cables. Therefore, implementation is hassle-free and flexible so as your organization grows, or your workflow changes, the fleet of OTTO’s can grow with you. (Waypoints can easily be updated with a click of a button through the user interface.)
Clearpath has developed state-of-the-art technology, not only in the hardware of this solution, but also in the software. Running an internal autonomy core, the software integrates elements of SLAM to create a robust on-board navigating solution. Clearpath has leveraged its six years of research and development experience to bring this disruptive technology to industry.
Using OTTO, warehousing operators can now see operational cost reductions because they are able to increase throughput or displace labor in certain areas. It also provides a technology that allows operators to shrink the footprint of their facility — OTTO offers flexible automation that has never existed before. It is now an available tool that can adapt and grow with businesses; therefore, removing limitations from traditional, rigid infrastructures.
OTTO can be configured with a conveyor, lift, tugger, or manipulation application. Therefore, use cases include pallet movement inside manufacturing and warehousing facilities, long distance material transport, line-side delivery and fork truck assistance.
