Linde MH: Easy Entry into Automation

With Linde Material Handling’s (MH) software solution MATIC:move, companies can now automate their intralogistics more quickly and cost-effectively, as it significantly simplifies the implementation and control of automated guided vehicles (AGVs). The software will also be used in the fully automated high-lift truck, the Linde L-MATIC core, which will launch in February 2025. This new model features an integrated lithium-ion battery and a compact design, making it ideal for use in narrow spaces within warehouses and production facilities.

Meeting the Demand for Automation

“The demand for automation solutions is immense as companies face challenges such as shorter delivery times in e-commerce, rising energy costs, increasing sustainability and safety requirements, and labor shortages,” says Pascal Kuster, Sales Trainer Automated Guided Vehicles at Linde MH. “Many material flow processes are well-suited for automation, yet high costs and staffing requirements can deter adoption,” he explains. MATIC:move addresses these challenges and opens up opportunities for smaller and mid-sized companies to boost efficiency with automated vehicles.

Simple Implementation and Planning

The main advantage of MATIC:move is its straightforward planning and quick implementation of automated material flow processes. “Simple point-to-point transport can be set up within a day,” Kuster adds. Regular maintenance and service work can be performed by trained technicians without needing specialized robotics experts. The vehicle’s navigation is based on reflectors placed at key points, such as curves, slopes, and loading/service stations. The automated truck creates a digital map by driving the route and allows route planning through a user-friendly “Drag & Drop” interface.

Versatile Applications and Cost Efficiency

MATIC:move is suitable for smaller fleets of up to five vehicles of the same type and standard load carriers, such as euro pallets and mesh boxes. The software is ideal for horizontal transport within warehouse, production, goods receipt, and shipping areas, and can also accommodate mixed traffic involving manually operated vehicles and pedestrians. The solution offers significantly lower investment costs, with payback periods typically around two years, according to Jan-Niklas Freund, Manager Automation Sales Steering at Linde MH.

New Fully Automated High-Lift Truck

The software is already in use with the Linde L-MATIC HD, a vehicle that can be operated both manually and automatically, offering a 1.6-ton load capacity and a lift height of 3.8 meters. The new Linde L-MATIC core, launching in February 2025, is a compact, fully automated high-lift truck with a 1.2-ton load capacity and a lift height of 1.78 meters. It features an integrated lithium-ion battery and operates in aisles under 2.5 meters in width.

Safety and Expansion

The Linde L-MATIC core includes a 360° safety zone and emergency-stop buttons for safe operation, with optional safety features like Linde BlueSpot or Red Warning Lines. Charging can be manual or done wirelessly via induction.

Scalable Solutions for Growth

For more complex automation projects or scaling up, customers can transition to MATIC:move+, which supports up to 150 vehicles and integrates with warehouse management, control, and enterprise resource planning systems. The enhanced software offers real-time vehicle status visualization, availability, utilization, and battery management.

“With the scalability of the software, each customer receives a tailored solution—whether for existing, historic sites (Brownfield applications) or new builds (Greenfield applications),” adds Kuster. Businesses can start small and expand automation gradually.

For more information, please visit: https://www.linde-mh.com/en/About-us/Press/