Innovation: WCPD and PCX – The all-rounder in intralogistics

The future of the transport of goods is, according to a variety of companies and experts, electric and autonomous. Driverless transportation systems become an essential part of intralogistics. In this field, wireless charging technology established itself as a reliable solution and alternative to contact-based charging methods. As wireless charging technologies set new standards in the field of charging technology, the integration of technology in industrial buildings comes to the fore. Therefore, it is an important factor regarding the sustainable usability of sensitive charging technologies and the structuring of new wireless charging procedures. The most efficient way of energy provision for driverless transportation systems in dynamic industrial environments is the so called “In-Process-Charging”. This (re-)charging strategy enables an energy transmission to the transportation systems within the production- and logistic environments - without the interruption of working circuits. In order to optimize the logistic performance, the PUK Group invented the wireless charging protection system (WCPS). Due to its ground assimilation, the charging system can be installed exactly where the process allows it. That enables a production and logistic flow without downtimes, unnecessary keepout areas caused by charging stations and stumbling blocks. An increase in productivity, regarding transportation vehicles and robots, is the result.

A new construction product completes the innovative technology

The invention of the WCPS made the PUK Group face the challenge of finding a new material to reconcile their product with the power transmission technologies. The main conflict of goals appeared due to the varying weights and tire models of the automatic vehicles and autonomous robots. The company wanted to create a material that combines the mechanics as well as the electro-magnetic requirements to fit the common construction of the robots. The goal was a product, which assures the best energy transmission possible, without a reduction in load capacity or efficiency. This process led to a resilient construction product based on minerals. The concrete construction material PCX is used for producing the certificated PCX Cover, which is the coverage for the WCPS charging system. According to the manufacturer, the material grants a high pressure and shock resistance of the cap, the water-proofness of the charging station and the best protection for the sensitive electronics.