ReBeL Move: Autonomous logistics vehicle from igus

That automating intralogistics processes doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated is demonstrated by igus with the new ReBeL Move, which the Cologne-based motion plastics specialist is presenting at Motek 2024. The mobile robot moves autonomously through factory halls, transporting products from point A to point B, and can also be combined with the ReBeL cobot made of high-performance plastic. It can be put into operation in just one hour with basic IT skills and is available, including the ReBeL cobot, for 34,808 euros.

Driverless transport systems (AGVs) simplify everyday operations in industrial companies: employees at machines no longer need to walk to the warehouse to fetch tools and materials; instead, they can rely on autonomous vehicles. Such automation increases productivity and reduces costs, especially in times of cost pressure and labor shortages, which is becoming increasingly recognized by small and medium-sized businesses with low levels of automation. “However, there are often hesitations due to a lack of experience and fears of making a bad investment,” says Alexander Mühlens, authorized officer and head of the Low-Cost Automation division at igus. “To offer these businesses an easy and low-risk entry into automating intralogistics processes, we’ve developed a cost-effective, intuitive AGV with an integrated cobot for handling objects: the ReBeL Move.”

Investment pays off within 12 months

The autonomous transport vehicle can carry small load carriers (KLT) measuring 60×40 centimeters and 30×40 centimeters with a payload of up to 35 kilograms. It drives at speeds of up to 1.5 m/s, with a battery life of over eight hours and a charging time of under two hours. It can optionally be equipped with the ReBeL, a cobot that igus produces almost entirely from durable and cost-effective high-performance plastic. The articulated arm robot, with a full-featured price of just 4,970 euros, is five times cheaper than comparable metal models. It weighs 8.2 kilograms, has a payload of 2 kilograms, and a reach of 664 millimeters. “With a price of only 34,808 euros, the ReBeL Move costs only a fraction of conventional AGVs, meaning the investment pays for itself within 12 months,” says Alexander Mühlens.

ReBeL Move can be put into operation within an hour

The new AGV system is not only more affordable than comparable solutions but also particularly easy to set up—just as quickly as a robotic lawnmower. In less digitized companies, the AGV operates as a standalone system that only requires a Wi-Fi connection. For configuration, the operator guides the vehicle using a handheld controller along its future work areas. The ReBeL Move is equipped with a 360-degree camera and uses slam technology to automatically create a digital map during its initial tour. After this mapping tour, the operator can use a tablet to define working, waiting, and charging stations, as well as no-go areas such as spaces around stairs and elevators or zones where the robot should move at reduced speeds to avoid disturbing employees. In reality, the mobile robot recognizes the target locations using a camera and reflectors at each station, without the need for complicated floor markings or tracks.

Tasks that the ReBeL Move will perform in intralogistics, such as having the ReBeL cobot pick products from a container at station A and transport them to station B, can also be easily defined via the tablet. The solution also includes software that enables intelligent fleet management, allowing multiple AGVs to work efficiently together. “The entire setup is so easy that users can program simple jobs in just 15 minutes,” says Mühlens. Integration into existing IT systems, such as synchronized interactions between robots and automatic gates, is no problem either, thanks to interfaces like IoT, VDA 5050, REST, SAP, and ERP. Mühlens adds: “Since setup is so quick, we can simulate small automation solutions on-site for interested customers, helping them overcome any hesitation with the technology. In addition to a purchase model, we also offer a rental option.”

For more information, please visit: https://www.igus.com