By Utilizing Automated Storage, Retrieval Systems (AS/RS) and Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) in warehouse or factory automation, business owners can enhance operational efficiency and save operating cost. In addition, it can also improve productivity of the factory. However, high stability is important for systems. The key concern of AS/RS and AGV systems is high mobility and seamless connection, which indicates that the stability of the wireless devices and networks is a main factor when deploying reliable warehouse or factory systems.
Challenges
There are multiple challenges when deploying wireless devices in factories. First, Large obstacles in warehouses, such as walls and large metal objects might block the WiFi line-of-sight. Thus, wireless devices with multiple antennas should be deployed to maximize WiFi coverage. In addition, some warehouses require extremely low temperature, the devices in the warehouse must be able to resist the temperature. Most importantly, the key factor of AGV is mobility. Thus, the device must be able to roam seamlessly between APs and it also has to be able to withstand the vibration of the AGV. Compact design is required too, since there is only limited space on the vehicle.
Korenix Solution
A corporate in Zhejiang, China has chosen Korenix JetWave products for its warehouse. The biggest challenge of the case is the roaming reliability. When the AGV is moving around in the factory, it passes through networking coverage of different AP. Fast processing time can reduce package loss during the handover. JetWave2212X was designed with unique fast roaming mechanism with just 100ms roaming time. With the seamless data communicating, the JetWave2212X passes data through WIFI to JetWave 3220.
The JetWave 3220 works as wireless AP which provides 2.4GHz and 5GHz band. Users can choose the according radio band that is suitable for the environment. Also, Each JetWave 3220 can backup each other via dual band to achieve wireless redundant for rugged network connection. The data will be transmitted to the control room through Ethernet.
Main Products
- JetWave 3220- Industrial Dual 802.11n 2.4G/5G 2T2R MIMO Wireless AP/Bridge
- JetWave2212X- Industrial 802.11a/b/g/n 2.4G/5G 2T2R MIMO Wireless AP