Auto Pallet Mover (APM): Driverless Transport AGV

Technology Overview

The Jungheinrich Auto Pallet Mover (APM) represents the fusion of decades of forklift manufacturing expertise with sophisticated automation technology. Developed to meet growing customer demands for effective and efficient intralogistics, this driverless transport system transforms a standard, proven production forklift into an intelligent Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV). By adding automation and an extensive safety system to a reliable base platform, the APM is designed for seamless integration into existing warehouses, enabling safe mixed operation with manual trucks and personnel while performing pallet transport and stacking tasks around the clock.

How It Works

Core Principles

The system operates on the principle of laser-guided navigation. The AGV locates itself within the warehouse using reflectors mounted in the environment. It follows predefined routes and executes tasks such as transporting, picking up, and stacking pallets, all while a comprehensive sensor suite continuously monitors for obstacles to ensure safety.

Key Features & Capabilities

Proven Forklift Base ensures high reliability, serviceability, and leverages existing parts and service networks. The Comprehensive Safety System, including 360° navigation scanners, side scanners, and personal protection scanners, creates a virtual protective cage, making the vehicle safe for mixed environments. Fork Tip Sensors enable precise, automated pickup and placement of pallets at variable locations and heights without manual intervention. The Three Operating Modes (stacking, transport, pick & transport) allow it to handle a wide range of automated material handling tasks. Laser-Guided Navigation with Area Blocking provides precise, collision-free routing, where the system prevents multiple AGVs from entering the same work area simultaneously.

Advantages & Benefits

The primary benefit is significant efficiency gains through 24/7 unmanned operation, relieving staff from repetitive transport work. It offers exceptional safety, allowing it to operate reliably alongside human workers. The fast Return on Investment (ROI), potentially within one year for three-shift operations, makes it a financially compelling automation step. Furthermore, its design based on standard trucks leads to easier and more cost-effective integration into existing infrastructure compared to custom-built AGVs, while also benefiting from better pricing, quality, and serviceability.

Implementation Considerations

Implementation requires the installation of laser reflectors in the operating environment to establish the navigation map. While integration is simpler than many systems, it still requires planning for traffic management in mixed-operation areas. The payload, lift height, and specific capabilities are determined by the underlying standard forklift model chosen for automation.

Use Cases & Applications

Ideal For

This solution is ideal for warehouses and manufacturing facilities looking to automate repetitive pallet movement and stacking tasks without completely overhauling their infrastructure, especially where mixed traffic (manual and automated) is present.

Performance Metrics

The system is designed for high reliability and 24/7 operation. It offers pinpoint accuracy in pallet handling. Jungheinrich states that an investment in an APM system with three-shift operation can pay for itself within one year, indicating strong ROI. The simple integration reduces upfront time and cost investments.

Conclusion

The Jungheinrich Auto Pallet Mover (APM) successfully bridges the gap between traditional material handling and full automation. By automating a familiar and reliable forklift platform, it offers a pragmatic, safe, and cost-effective path to introducing driverless transport. Its strength lies in operational reliability, safety in mixed environments, and a compelling financial return. For companies seeking to increase logistics efficiency and reduce labor costs without a disruptive overhaul, the APM presents a highly viable and intelligent automation solution.