Case Study: MARC® Transports Repair Tools to Save Time

HOW MARC® TRANSPORTS TOOLS
TO RECLAIM LOST TIME AND
INCREASE MACHINE UTILIZATION

Enhancing Efficiency and Productivity with Autonomous Material Handling

Introduction: Implementing Automated Mobile Robots (AMRs) to move tools and equipment from a central tool room to production lines can revolutionize operational efficiency on the manufacturing floor. By automating the transport of required tools, manufacturers minimize downtime, optimize labor allocation, and improve overall productivity. This document outlines a comprehensive use case for deploying an AMR-based tool delivery solution, covering business needs, system overview, process flow, benefits, and considerations.

CHALLENGE: Fetching, Using and Returning Tools Wastes Time

Manufacturing environments require timely and accurate delivery of specialized tools and equipment to production stations and equipment. 
Traditionally, machine operators or support staff fetch tools from a central tool room, leading to:

• Lost production time as operators leave their workstations
• Inefficient use of skilled labor
• Lost utilization time for critical machinery
• Potential for bottlenecks and delays, especially during peak activity
• Increased risk of misplaced or lost tools

In high-mix or dynamic production settings, these inefficiencies may compound, affecting throughput and quality. The adoption of AMRs for tool transport addresses these challenges by automating routine internal logistics. 

At the same time, the underlying issue of wasted time is huge - when a member of the team has to walk across the facility to get a part and then walk all the way back is a historical challenge that can be difficult to eliminate using the more complex automation solutions out there. 

SOLUTION: MARC® Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) Moves Tools and Parts to Regain Wasted Time and Increase System Utilization.

To address this challenge, the company implemented a MARC cart equipped with various fixtures to accommodate specialized tools as well as a tool box with universal tool sets. The MARC cart was programmed to transport the tools and/or repair parts from the centrally located tool crib to the machine needing repair. This travel time was saved because the repair technician did not have to walk over to the tool crib - and later return to the station to bring the tool back. The tool pickup requires a there-and-back path, as does the tool return. All of these trips are saved by MARC delivering and returning the tools or parts. 

The new process:

Tool Request Processing and Dispatch:

• The tool crib operator receives the request, checks real-time inventory, and fetches the tool for delivery.
• The tool room operator loads the requested tool into the AMR’s payload compartment or fixture, ensuring secure containment.
• Transit to Production Floor: The MARC cart determines the optimal route to the specified machine station, avoiding obstacles and other traffic.
• The operator retrieves the tool, and completes the repair.
• Once the tool is no longer needed, it is returned to the cart and sent back to the tool crib, eliminating a second trip.

This truly self-guided autonomous mobile robot can operate without Wi-Fi, so warehouse “dead zones” aren’t an issue. With a maximum payload up to 250 pounds (110kg) during autonomous movement, it can easily move items that require extra equipment for human workers. Its easy-to-use interface makes it simple to program — just push the cart to the desired location and press a location button for 6 seconds.

MARC uses high-resolution cameras, lasers and proximity sensors to build its own independent map, enabling it to navigate constantly changing facility landscapes. A 360-degree proximity sensor view prevents collisions, and the internal digital gyroscope and accelerometer measure tilt, acceleration, and shock to protect workers and items.

MARC makes it fast and easy for a warehouse worker to remove an item from an automated line, place it on the cart, and send it with the push of a button to where it needs to be - and there’s no need for IT support or operator training.

MARC^® from MūL Technologies starts achieving ROI the minute you put it to work, trimming time and motion waste from your warehouse operations.  Reach out to the MūL Technologies team today to learn more about this cost-effective, simple way to introduce autonomous mobile robots to your facility.

RESULTS: MARC® ADDS MEASURABLE VALUE

The implementation of the AMR yielded significant benefits:

• Minimized Downtime: Operators spend more time on core repair and maintenance tasks rather than walking to fetch tools.
• Labor Optimization: Skilled workers are not diverted to manual transport, increasing workforce efficiency.
• Scalability: AMR fleets can be scaled based on production demand without major process changes.
• Enhanced Safety: AMRs are equipped with sensors to safely navigate complex environments, reducing risk of collisions or accidents.
• Cost Savings: Over time, automation reduces labor costs and lost productivity due to search time and tool loss.

Extrapolated over a year, the time and money saved by using MARC® provides the company with recurring annual savings of nearly $30,000. Because of MARC’s ease of use, implementation was immediate and adoption rates were also high.

Extrapolated over a year, the time and money saved by using MARC® provides the company with recurring annual savings of nearly $30,000 just on the direct labor. Add in the financial benefits of reduced down time you quickly exceed $30,000.00 or more in total savings – year after year.          MARC® from MūL Technologies helped substantially reduce non-value-add activities, which increased productivity, profitability, and ROI. Isn’t it time to put MARC® work for you? Reach out to the MūL Technologies team to discuss your needs.

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