The Challenge
A CDMO required a forward-looking concept to automate the entire material flow chain. The complexity lay in linking heterogeneous process steps while maintaining strictest GMP zone requirements.
Identified Pain Points & Risks:
- Zone Compliance: Critical interfaces when repackaging from wooden to metal pallets for cleanroom areas
- Interface Complexity: Necessity for seamless communication between autonomous systems (AGV), the Warehouse Management System (WMS), and various production equipment
- Building Integration: Fitting automation solutions into an existing or planned building layout without efficiency losses
- Process Continuity: Ensuring smooth flow from goods receipt through filling and inspection to finished palletizing for dispatch
Our Solution
By combining in-depth know-how in pharmaceutical processes with expertise in robotics and automation, Pharmabotix developed a fully integrated implementation concept.
System Architecture & Concept Elements:
- Goods Receipt: Automated unloading systems for pallets directly from trucks
- Zone Transfer Station: Development of an automated repackaging concept (wooden to metal pallets) to ensure GMP requirements when transitioning to cleaner zones
- Autonomous Intralogistics: Use of Automated Guided Vehicles (AGV) for fully automatic material transport between warehouse, filling lines, and inspection lines
- End-of-Line Automation: Fully automatic palletizing of finished products and provision in dispatch warehouse
- Digital Integration: Definition of all software interfaces to WMS and involved process equipment for seamless data integrity
Technology Highlights:
- 3D Layout Integration: All concepts were integrated as 3D models directly into the building layout to validate space requirements and material flow in advance
- Holistic Approach: Consideration of all required materials and process steps for a turnkey vision
- Interdisciplinary Engineering: Close collaboration with the planning office to align technical and structural requirements
Project Gallery
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