Autonomous underride tractor
Sent on their way at the touch of a button
The autonomous C-Matic marks Linde's entry into the underride tugger train segment. It drives non-stop for up to 16 hours, has all the necessary safety features and can be flexibly integrated into internal material flow processes.
Standardized processes are often found in production logistics in particular. Day after day, shift after shift, parts stored in pallet cages have to be transported to defined belt positions. Such processes can be simplified with autonomous transport solutions and employees can be relieved. With the new driverless C-Matic, all it takes is the push of a button to send the trolley with the required small parts on its way - or vice versa.
The underride tug maneuvers independently on a previously installed magnetic belt through the storage area. At the pick-up point, it drives under the trolley provided and "docks" it via an extendable drive pin. The C-Matic easily moves load carriers weighing up to 650 kilograms and takes them to their destination at a maximum speed of three kilometers per hour along a defined route. The magnetic belt can be quickly and easily relocated or replaced.
Movement using RFID tags
The movement mode of the device is defined by RFID tags, which are placed under the magnetic tape at individually selectable intervals. The corresponding actions when an RFID tag is read are assigned by software during installation: For example, the speed can be reduced at points where pedestrians cross the route. Thanks to a built-in laser scanner with a three-metre radius and a scanning angle of 270 degrees, the autonomous device detects people and obstacles in good time and stops automatically if necessary. There is also an emergency stop button on the front of the vehicle and an acoustic warning system.
A particular advantage is the great endurance, says Linde. The device can work for up to 16 hours on a single charge. It is conveniently charged via an onboard charger at a 230-volt socket, for example overnight. The gel batteries are fully operational again within eight hours. For companies with a three-shift system, Linde offers an optional battery exchange rack with an external charging unit. as












