Egemin automates Pfizer’s production logistics with AGV

Automatic Guided Vehicles
Photo by egemin

Egemin recently sold an AGV system to Pfizer Freiburg. The system consists of 4 AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles) that will deliver the ingredients for medicine production to 150 workstations, via the best possible route. The correct composition of ingredients is essential for the drugs to be effective and safe, which is why the various stages of production need to be well expertly coordinated and validated. The AGV system will enable Pfizer to speed up its production process and will ensure that just-in-time deliveries happen smoothly.

Pfizer produces around 4.5 million tablets, capsules and pills every year in its Freiburg plant, making it one of the most productive pharmaceutical factories in the world. The Egemin transport system consisting of four automated guided vehicles will contribute to efficient drug production well into the future.

Preliminary simulation
During the first phase of the project, Egemin developed a logistical simulation for Pfizer. This simulation verified the flow of goods and importantly the future capacity of the production facility. One of Pfizer’s requirements was to maintain sufficient flexibility in the production process so that the system could be expanded in the future. The simulation proved that this was possible.

Integrated weighing on vehicles
The four AGVs carry containers of ingredients into containers that are destined for medicine production at the 150 workstations. Container transfer is carried out via an on-board conveyor that mates with fixed conveyors at the workstations. The AGVs are also equipped with an on-board system for weighing the containers. In this way, a whole stage is cut out of the manufacturing process and production is therefore more efficient.

Validated software for the pharmaceutical industry
The vehicles have intelligent control in order to supply the production stations both quickly and accurately. The central management software E’tricc provided by Egemin is responsible for controlling the flow of goods and gives assignments to the AGVs. The assignments follow the most favourable route and are processed according to priority.

“What’s important in this case is the validation of the software with a view to its process-oriented and functional reliability,” said Yaser Gamai, sales manager at Egemin Germany. “Most importantly, the transport system is configured to meet all the necessary hygiene and quality standards of pharmaceutical production, without exception. At the same time, it guarantees the implementation of the tasks necessary for optimum material flow”. For validation and compliance processes, Egemin has its own Life Sciences division. This division has the necessary knowledge and the corresponding quality systems and processes. Compliance with current pharmaceutical guidelines is therefore guaranteed.

For more information, please visit: http://www.egemin.com

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