Achieved Wi-Fi Mobility for Automated Material Handling Systems

MOXA announced the launch of an integrated WLAN solution suitable for Automated Materials Handling (AMH) systems.

With this solution, you can design mobile equipment that ensures reliable wireless connectivity for applications such as warehouse automation. This solution achieves fast roaming within 150 milliseconds (ms) by using MOXA's AWK-A series AP/client products and MOXA's Turbo Roaming technology.

The dual insulation design of the AWK-A series protects both the power port and the antenna port from electrical interference. In addition, these wireless devices are designed for industrial use with features such as vibration resistance and a wide operating temperature range, making them suitable for use in harsh warehouse environments.

Jeffrey Ke, Product Manager for Industrial Wireless at MOXA, stated, “As wireless technology evolves, the use of automated moving equipment in manufacturing is rapidly increasing. However, wireless networks are more vulnerable than wired networks, requiring robust wireless devices for seamless connectivity. MOXA’s AWK-A industrial wireless solution enables seamless roaming with fast handoffs (turbo roaming) within 150 milliseconds (ms). This enables non-stop operation of AS/RS and AGV systems.” "And Level 4 ESD of the antenna port and 500V insulation of the power port achieve a stable wireless system, and the vibration-resistant design allows the equipment to withstand continuous movement," he said.

AMH Market-Tailored Solutions Expected to Grow 15% Annually

MOXA’s AMH solution was launched amidst forecasts that this market will grow at a high rate. According to a report on the AMH market by market research firm MarketsandMarkets.com, among AMH systems, Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) applications are projected to grow the highest, with an average annual growth rate of 15% between 2015 and 2020, followed by Automated Storage and Reservoir (AS/RS), which is expected to grow at an average annual rate of 10% during the same period.

Other market studies have also indicated that using AMH systems in the manufacturing sector can reduce plant operating costs by up to 30%. MOXA’s reliable wireless solutions for AS/RS and AGV systems help AMH system vendors fully realize this growth potential.

The AWK-A series supports the IEEE 802.11n standard, utilizing MIMO technology to extend wireless coverage and provide sufficient network bandwidth with data speeds up to 300Mbps. Additionally, its rugged IP68-rated housing (AWK-4131A only) and operating temperature range of -40°C to 75°C make it suitable for use in sub-zero warehouse environments.