DEVELOPMENT OF A CONCEPT FOR AUTOMATION OF INTERNAL LOGISTICS BASED ON MOBILE ROBOTS FOR THE FIRE-RESISTANT INDUSTRY

Abstract

The article is devoted to solving the problem of increasing the efficiency of in-plant logistics at an enterprise in the refractory industry. Using the example of Gruppa Magnesit LLC, a concept for automating transport flows based on autonomous mobile robots (AMR) has been developed. Methods of system analysis, multi-criteria assessment, and mathematical modeling were used to formulate technical requirements, select the type of robotic system, and calculate key performance indicators. The result of the work is a technical and economic feasibility study demonstrating the feasibility of implementing the proposed solution to reduce costs and digitalize material flows. The research objective: Development of a concept and a technical and economic feasibility study for implementing a system based on autonomous mobile robots (AMR) to automate the transportation of refractory bricks and bulk materials at a full-cycle enterprise. Methods and materials. The research is based on an analysis of modern solutions in the field of industrial robotics (AGV/AMR) and logistics, including the works of Loginovsky O.V. in the field of process mana¬gement. Methods of system analysis were applied to formulate requirements, the analytical hierarchy process for comparative evaluation of AGVs and AMRs, and mathematical modeling to calculate the required fleet of robots, assess cargo flows and economic effect (payback period). The material was data on typical production cycles and logistics operations of refractory production. Results. Specific technical requirements for a robotic logistics system for conditions of dustiness, temperature fluctuations, and handling of heavy loads have been formulated. Based on a multi-criteria model, the choice of autonomous mobile robots (AMR) as a solution providing maximum flexibility and adaptability is substantiated. Mathematical models for determining the optimal number of robots and the predicted economic effect, including the reduction of operational costs and the release of personnel, are proposed. Conclusion. The conducted research confirms that the implementation of an AMR-based system at Gruppa Magnesit LLC is technically feasible and economically viable. The proposed concept allows for a transition from point automation to the creation of a holistic, flexible logistics infrastructure, which forms the basis for the further digital transformation of production. A prospect of the work is the detailed design of the system and the development of a “digital twin” of logistics flows.