Requirements

• Seamless Coverage in Complex and Challenging Environment

  • Warehouses often have a high density of metal racks and shelving that obstruct wireless signals, complicating the design of effective connectivity solutions. Wireless networks must be strategically planned to ensure coverage throughout the facility, optimizing coverage while mitigating self-interference.

• Support for High Capacity and Various Applications

  • There is a huge amount of devices enabled for operations in smart warehouses. Network design must accommodate different types of devices to ensure sufficient bandwidth and minimize latency. The applications include:
    • Handheld, vehicle mounted, and wearable computers, as well as RFID/barcode scanners for inventory management
    • IoT sensors, e.g. temperature and humidity monitoring, and load handling
    • Autonomous forklifts, automated guided vehicles (AGV), automated storage/retrieval systems (AS/RS), and robotic arms for Automated Material Handling

• Seamless Roaming and Ultra Low Latency for Real-Time Control and Management

  • AGVs, AMRs and robotic applications operate in time-sensitive environments, where any packet loss or delay can halt operations and potentially lead to mechanical collisions. Therefore, the network must be designed to enable seamless roaming and ensure ultra-low latency for communication between AGVs/AMRs and the backend management system.

• High Reliability and Zero Tolerance of Link Disconnection

  • Any disruption in wireless connectivity can lead to operational delays and errors in inventory management. As such, the network must incorporate redundancy and failover capabilities to ensure continuous 24/7 operation without downtime. Solutions should include multiple APs to provide seamless coverage.

• Robust and Durable Performance in Extreme Environmental Conditions

  • When selecting network equipment, it is essential to consider the following extreme environmental conditions:
    • Exceptionally low temperatures in cold storage warehouses
    • Constant vibration generated by automated vehicles or robots in automated warehouses

Why Choose Altai

• Super Wi-Fi Coverage by Altai Smart Antenna Technology

  • Thanks to the patented antenna design and signal processing algorithms, Altai’s solutions effectively overcome Wi-Fi bottlenecks and enhance uplink performance in non-line-of-sight (NLOS) environments. This allows for an optimized number of APs while minimizing self-interference, lowering capital and operational expenditures.

• Support for Seamless Roaming with IEEE 802.11k/v/r Standards and Altai Proprietary Algorithm

  • Altai’s smart roaming technology ensures fast handover times of less than 100 milliseconds, facilitating smooth and uninterrupted operations as AGVs and AMRs transition between APs without latency.

• High Reliability with Altai AlwaysConnected Solution

  • Designed for 24/7 operation, Altai Solutions provides coverage redundancy and wireless link failover capabilities for business-critical applications, guaranteeing continuous connectivity and minimizing disruptions.

• Advanced Radio Resource Management with Altai Smart Load Balancing

  • Altai APs work collaboratively to distribute traffic load among wireless devices, ensuring optimal performance for time-sensitive applications. This solution effectively addresses the “sticky client” issue commonly encountered in traditional Wi-Fi networks, which can hinder warehouse operations.

• Compatible with Industrial Protocols and Applications

  • Altai solutions support Profinet and serial-to-Wi-Fi device server connectivity, enabling serial devices such as PLCs, meters, sensors, and actuators to communicate seamlessly with IP/TCP network devices over the air, facilitating remote monitoring and management.

• Built with Industrial Grade Hardware

  • Engineered to withstand extreme temperatures and designed with robust materials, Altai’s solutions ensure a long lifecycle for devices operating in demanding warehouse environments.

Application 1: Automatic Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs)

Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) are robotic systems that efficiently navigate warehouses and logistics centers to transport large quantities of goods. These vehicles vary in size and capability, from compact, cost-effective transporters for small goods weighing a few kilograms to larger systems like forklifts capable of handling tens of tons of bulk materials.

The reliability of these systems is crucial to overall operations, as any failure can lead to significant disruptions. The wireless network must be designed to ensure seamless communication between AGVs/AMRs and the Warehouse Management System (WMS) for successful order fulfillment, effective workload management, and maintaining safety within the facility.