Global warehouse automation specialist Swisslog recently worked with KUKA to strengthen its AGV-based CarryPick system — namely by bringing mobile goods-to-person systems in-house.

CarryPick is an automated storage and order fulfillment system. It works as a flexible and scalable asset for supporting multi-channel fulfillment operations.

The CarryPick system’s new KMP600 AGV was developed in an arrangement that combined the manufacturers’ research and development power. So now the new CarryPick has higher performance and reliability than in the past … mostly thanks to a tightly integrated system that includes vehicle and system software.

Better mechatronics also make the vehicle quieter than past iterations —with longer battery life to boot.

“The new system comes with comprehensive service from our global support network. Plus its stability leads to better results by reducing downtime and improving WiFi capabilities,” added Dr. Christian Baur, COO Swisslog Gruppe & CEO Swisslog Logistics Automation.

This new approach will offer Swisslog and KUKA customers the ability to interact with a single supplier, lower risk and support from a global service network. “We are now able to perfectly integrate all components, adapt them quickly to new market challenges and test them in diverse scenarios,” added Baur. “This will yield advantages that will make the new CarryPick system more easily aligned to customer needs.”

With all CarryPick system technologies (from AGV through software and support) in-house, Swisslog aims to offer whole solutions to meet exact customer requirements. Dedicated engineering teams will collaborate closely with the customers to provide assistance from a single source.

Case in point: With a CarryPick module within Swisslog’s new SynQ software platform, end users will no longer need to run several different software systems … and that will reduce the risk of errors and downtime. The SynQ software offers operational processes specific to Swisslog solutions and customer industry segments, which means that users are able to choose the precise functionality they need. This modular design improves cost effectiveness. SynQ customers will also have access to virtual and augmented reality functionality that will give them the opportunity to see how the CarryPick system will operate prior to implementation — and serve as a training tool for new hires or pickers in a warehouse.