MHI’s Mobile Automation Group Shares Innovations—and Dispels Myths
Article from MHI Solutions Magazine
Members of MHI’S Mobile Automation Group (MAG) are eager to share the latest innovations in automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs)—and to dispel some common myths.
“People are looking to move things very quickly, easily, 24/7—and automation is the premier solution to help them do that,” Holly Hale, MAG’s co‑vice chair and marketing manager for MHI member Align Production Systems, said.
AGVs are built to follow a predefined path, while AMRs follow an “in the moment” path, with different sensors enabling them to roam freely through a facility, Hale said.
“Safety is always at the top of mind for any plant or facility because we need to be able to move things in a safe and easy way—and with the technology around sensors, LiDAR and cameras developing on AGVs and AMRs, they really are safe solutions,” she said. “You can rely on that piece of equipment to go where it’s supposed to go, and when it’s supposed to go.”
The industry group has produced a series of online training modules, MAG 101, covering both the basics and advanced topics, Hale said. The modules are intended for anyone looking to learn more about automation, as well as employees of member companies new to the industry.
Additional educational efforts include blogs, articles and podcasting—”we’re just trying to educate the broader audience about automation,” she said…
