Application of robotic forklifts in intelligent warehouses: feasibility analysis

• Grant number: 11/00052-5
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: April 01, 2011
• End date: October 31, 2012
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Production Engineering - Economic Engineering
• Principal Investigator: Marcelo Becker
• Grantee: Nádia Junqueira Martarelli Fróes
• Host Institution: Escola de Engenharia de São Carlos (EESC). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Carlos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The competitiveness and market volatility are key factors that lead companies to seek for improving productivity and efficiency while at the same time, reducing costs. In this scenario the logistics highlights among other business strategies for maximizing the performance of cargo movement systems aiming to decrease costs and increase the quality of service. Thus, automation of logistics systems is becoming an essential alternative to achieve these goals. This project is focused on the feasibility study of the use of AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles) in intelligent warehouse systems. In order to evaluate the feasibility of AGV implementation, case studies will be carried out in mid-sized companies in the State of São Paulo. Based on the data of these companies one will be able to verify the impact, costs and benefits that this automated system can produce in storage and distribution of goods.