Flexible control technology for advanced logistics systems

Advanced warehouse logistics require flexible, efficient systems. PC-based control technology from Beckhoff and EtherCAT offer a powerful solution for maximum efficiency and safety.

Advanced warehouse and distribution logistics face a multitude of challenges, such as increasing complexity, growing customer expectations, and ever-expanding cost pressure.

Further developments in favor of flexible and data-intensive systems that utilize artificial intelligence (AI) – including machine learning for machine optimization and predictive maintenance – require powerful PC-based control technology.

Modern logistics systems must ensure rapid availability with maximum customization and deliver exceptional efficiency and reliability. Powerful PC and EtherCAT-based control technology from Beckhoff forms the basis for the automation in these systems. This open platform allows a wide range of functions – such as robotics, safety, battery management, and navigation – to be managed centrally. EtherCAT features outstanding performance, flexible topology selection, comprehensive diagnostics, and simple configuration. The technology offers a compact, space-saving solution that can be easily integrated into any logistics environment, particularly in the field of mobile robots and automated guided vehicles (AGVs). Using a single controller for multiple applications also significantly reduces maintenance costs.

The TwinCAT 3 automation software integrates all engineering and runtime processes, and features a consistent development environment for executing all control tasks in warehouse and distribution logistics. 

Many intralogistics devices, such as mobile robots, stacker cranes, and crane systems, require higher safety standards to safeguard interaction between humans and devices. Some cases involve combinations of different forms of drive technology. Beckhoff’s integrated safety solution ensures consistent safety: TwinSAFE provides a universal safety concept that integrates safety functions into the standard control platform – from the PLC to the drive technology via I/Os as well as integrated functions in the drive modules.

The seamless integration of navigation technology ensures that AGVs can navigate autonomously and safely through sophisticated environments. Beckhoff systems also offer a high degree of flexibility: They can be easily integrated into existing infrastructures and enable simple scaling of automation solutions.

Control technology from Beckhoff helps companies operate their AGVs and AMRs much more efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively. By integrating technology such as EtherCAT, safety, and robotics on a single platform, companies benefit from excellent system stability and a future-proof solution.

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