Optimist - Optimization of internal transports
The project has investigated the potential to automate package handling at the channel dryers at Setra Kastet sawmill. The potential costs and savings of introducing autonomous vehicles for handling timber, timber packages and litter piles have been calculated.
The results from the simulation of the straw package handling show that the capacity of three of the channels can be increased by up to 50% if the changeover is automated, and uniform products of the same size and final moisture content are run in those channels. This requires a re-planning of the whole production chain to keep the dryers filled in the desired way. Automation can also help to improve the working environment, reduce energy consumption and improve product quality.
The results of the study on autonomous vehicles (AGVs) show that this investment is currently considered too costly. The AGV can move at half the speed of a truck in a typical sawmill area. The flexibility of the truck for different uses also speaks to the disadvantage of the AGV. The report shows different calculation models and cost pictures for different applications. Sketches of the design of autonomous shuttles are also shown.
Area: Materials & Processes
Budget: SEK 780,000
January 2020 - June 2021
Project leader: Anders Lycken, RISE
Funding: This project was funded by TCN.
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