Mercedes-Benz used the updated predictive site survey to install the required power outlets and network cabling. Once the required infrastructure was in place, HMS returned to install and configure the Anybus Wireless products before verifying that the installation worked as planned.

Anybus wireless products
The wireless infrastructure uses Anybus Access Points powered by Anybus PoE L2 Managed Switches, with an Anybus Wireless Bolt II mounted on each AGV. The Anybus Wireless Bolts handle communication from the AGVs to the traffic control system and connect to the 12 different access points in the factory’s ceiling. As an AGV moves out of range of one access point, it transitions to the next, ensuring uninterrupted communication.

Access Points were strategically placed around the factory to ensure seamless connectivity.

A critical aspect to the project's success was the utilisation of the 5GHz frequency band, while the Bolt II’s similarity to its predecessor also simplified the installation. Maximilian explains: "We wanted to use the 5GHz frequency band where we have four dedicated channels that didn’t interfere with our existing systems. It was also convenient that the Bolt II fits in the same hole as the original Bolt”.

The results
With the wireless expertise of HMS and their Anybus Wireless products, Mercedes-Benz successfully achieved its goal of efficient and safe transportation of goods within the factory. Maximilian happily reflects on the outcome:

“Everything worked as we hoped. The connection is very stable, and we are now able to comply with the safety machinery regulation. The support for more bandwidth has even allowed us to manage and configure the AGVs remotely, which, while not a key objective is a nice bonus”.

Finally, what are your tips to users who are thinking of going wireless?
“A key factor for us was that HMS were on hand to design and install the wireless infrastructure. That was important for us. We wanted to have wireless experts onsite to ensure that everything went smoothly. We’re not wireless experts, HMS are. We make cars, which you probably already knew,” Maximilian adds with a smile.

Courtesy: HMS Networks AB - a provider of solutions in industrial information and communication technology (Industrial ICT).

HMS develops and manufactures products under the Anybus, Ewon, Intesis and Ixxat brands. Headquartered in Halmstad (Sweden), HMS employs over 780 people and reported sales of SEK 2,506 million in 2022.