Utilizing onboard technology, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) seamlessly navigate through their surroundings, recognizing and evading any hurdles, individuals, and machinery they encounter. Sunview Patio Doors Ltd., boasting four decades of industry experience and now part of Novatech Group since 2021, has addressed a major industry challenge: delivering swift, superior services along with customizable product options. Its embrace of digital advancements has empowered the company to fulfill consumer demands and secure a competitive edge in the global market.
The cornerstone of Sunview’s achievement is its operational efficiency, demonstrated by its production of 70,000-80,000 units each year. Nevertheless, the sector has witnessed considerable shifts over time. The once uniform specifications for windows and patio doors have evolved, giving rise to a plethora of customization options for consumers, presenting a challenge for Sunview’s manufacturing setup.
To cater to the growing need for customized products and quicker delivery, Sunview realized the importance of enhancing its manufacturing flexibility and efficiency. Adopting a lean production approach was critical for ensuring materials were timely and accurately allocated throughout the production process.
While striving for increased production efficiency and flexibility, Sunview placed a high priority on safety, seeking a solution that surpassed the traditional use of pump trucks and forklifts, which posed significant safety risks.
Kurt Oberparleiter, Vice President of Operations at Sunview, emphasized the danger of complacency with repetitive tasks, noting the significant safety hazard presented by the forklifts operating closely around personnel.
In their quest for a safer, more efficient solution to keep up with consumer demands, Sunview explored various options, including automated guided vehicles (AGVs). However, they encountered limitations with AGVs, such as dependency on fixed paths and inability to interact safely with humans, leading to operational disruptions.
OTTO Motors’ autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), however, offered the needed adaptability, dependability, and safety. These robots navigate using laser-based perception and AI, allowing for infrastructure-free movement and real-time environmental adaptation. Sunview opted for the OTTO 1500 model from OTTO Motors, notable for its significant payload capacity.
In practice, the OTTO 1500 robot efficiently transports finished goods from production to the warehouse and returns with empty pallets, facilitating a smooth operational flow.
The introduction of AMRs into Sunview’s operations not only streamlined their processes but also significantly enhanced their production line’s efficiency. The positive feedback from clients and prospects who witnessed OTTO 1500 in action underscored Sunview’s innovative approach, aiding in business development.
After a year of implementation, the AMR successfully completed over 7,000 missions, covering 930,000 feet and transporting 2.7 million pounds of products, all without any safety incidents, achieving a return on investment within 16 months
