Providing Automation Systems for Customers

Providing unmanned and labor-saving products

Against the backdrop of rapidly growing labor shortages, we are developing safe, eco-friendly, and high-performance automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and automated guided forklifts (AGFs) to meet the need for automation at logistics sites.

In June 2022, we jointly developed the PLATTER Auto Forklift with a freezer warehouse specification (for 1.5 to 3.0 tonne models). This laser-guided automated forklift (laserguided AGF), jointly developed with Nichirei Logistics Group Inc., can operate in freezer warehouses at temperatures as low as -25℃.

Because fog and condensation can be obstacles to laser-guided AGFs in the -30℃ class when operating in refrigerated warehouses, we incorporated specialized components: those that can accommodate a refrigerated environment, which we developed for our conventional AGFs; and electrical components and sensors appropriate for -30℃ class equipment. After conducting demonstration tests with vehicles incorporating corrosion-resistance features, we achieved the commercialization of Japan’s first laser-guided AGF that does not require the laying of magnetic guides on the floor along the operating route.

PLATTER Auto forklift featuring the freezer warehouse specification (1.5–3.0 tonnes)
PLATTER Auto forklift featuring the freezer warehouse specification
(1.5–3.0 tonnes)

Responding to global demand for automation

The AGV ACT (Automated Compact Truck), developed by Logisnext Europe Oy in Finland, a European Group company, began accepting orders in March 2023 and is now available in Europe, North America, and Asia. Recognized for its exceptional design, it has won two of the world’s top three design accolades: the Red Dot Design Award and the iF Design Award for FY2024.

In September 2023, Rocrich AGV Solutions (Rocrich) commenced operations as a joint venture in the AGV business for the North American market. This new company was established through an equal partnership between Logisnext Americas Inc., a U.S.-based Group company, and Jungheinrich AG, a German manufacturer specializing in general logistics equipment. Leveraging the extensive expertise of both companies in automated logistics solutions, Rocrich aims to enhance support and satisfaction for existing customers while accelerating the acquisition of new clients in the region.

The ACT, an AGV from Logisnext Europe
The ACT, an AGV from Logisnext Europe

Using collaborations and alliances to promote and accelerate the digital transformation

In order to meet the growing need for automation, we are actively collaborating and forming business alliances with other companies.

We are manufacturing automated forklifts by installing automatic control equipment manufactured by Rapyuta Robotics Co., Ltd., with whom we have concluded a business alliance, in our electric forklifts.

Our products incorporate an automatic control system produced by Rapyuta Robotics Co., Ltd.
Our products incorporate an automatic control system produced by Rapyuta Robotics Co., Ltd.