August 2024 | Schaeffler’s Digital Transformation, Human-Robot collaboration and the Future of Automation

Schaeffler's Digital Transformation

For nearly 80 years, 舍弗勒 has been at the forefront of motion technology, pioneering innovations that keep the industry in constant motion. In 2023, they made digitalization a cornerstone of their strategy, particularly focusing on automating intralogistics to enhance flexibility, sustainability, and efficiency. But with the challenges of isolated IT solutions, how did Schaeffler manage to automate their logistics processes across multiple locations seamlessly?

Schaeffler required more than just site-specific solutions — they were in need of a scalable, cloud-based fleet manager capable of controlling local material flows with precision. In the video below, you will learn how Schaeffler is integrating mobile robotics to relieve workers, increase efficiency, and ensure competitiveness across their global production sites. Read the entire story here.

Featured in this story: Christian Gladow , Andre Heskamp , Dr. Wolfgang Hackenberg , Tim Menapace , Patrick Sommer , Ralf Fuchs

"Digitalization is a key focus of Schaeffler's Roadmap 2025 corporate strategy and the foundation for sustainable business success. Through digital solutions and cyber-physical equipment, we can respond flexibly and agilely to changing conditions in intralogistics, manage production more sustainably, and realize additional efficiency potentials more quickly. Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) play an important role in this: A global team from various functions, divisions, and regions is driving the implementation of AGVs in Schaeffler plants. Within Schaeffler's production, the number of AGVs, as well as autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), will continue to grow significantly in the coming years. This is an important step for us on the path to the factory of the future, which operates efficiently, flexibly, semi-autonomously, and sustainably." - Roberto Henkel SVP Digitalization & Operations IT

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Of Robots and Men: The Future of Human & Robot Collaboration

In industrial settings, the integration of mobile and humanoid robots often meets with skepticism and concern, but it doesn't have to be this way. With thoughtful design, advanced sensors, and early workforce involvement, robots can become trusted collaborators, not job-killers.

Discover how Dr. Jana Jost from the Fraunhofer IML institute shares actionable strategies for fostering positive acceptance of robots in warehouses and production environments. From friendly robot designs to real-time ergonomic sensors, learn how to create a harmonious future where humans and robots work side by side. Read the article here

Inside Intralogistics: A Deep Dive with Movvo.eu's General Manager Jaume Graells Gallego

In the latest episode of the "Intralogistics Insiders" podcast, Xavier Alonso 's sits down with Jaume Graells Gallego , General Manager of Movvo, to explore the complexities and innovations in automating intralogistics. From integrating AGVs in automotive giants like SEAT to the future of mobile robots in industries like airports, Jaume shares insights on navigating the challenges and leveraging technology to optimize material flows.

Whether you're curious about the balance between manual and automated processes, or how to overcome the hurdles of implementing AMRs in demanding environments, check out the second episode of the intralogistics insiders podcast !

Start Your Automation Journey with Forklift Guidance

While many companies look toward full automation, significant efficiency gains can start with your current forklift fleet. An intelligent Forklift Management System helps optimize task assignments and routes, leading to better fleet utilization, lower operational costs, and enhanced transparency. Learn more here

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