MiR partners with Sonic Automation to boost Thai industry

Mobile Industrial Robots (MiR) has announced Sonic Automation as its newest partner in Thailand, aligning with its strategy to meet the burgeoning demand for automation in Southeast Asia. This collaboration follows MiR’s recent partnership with KVC in Malaysia, further expanding its network to support the regional interest in autonomous mobile robots (AMRs).

The new alliance is poised to introduce AI-powered AMRs that can address complex automation challenges in industrial environments in Malaysia and Thailand. Problems such as damaged or poorly positioned pallets, cluttered spaces, and various obstacles contribute to operational inefficiencies that existing AMRs often struggle to manage. MiR’s AI-driven robots are designed to overcome these challenges, offering precise pallet recognition and improved pick-and-place operations. This development promises to minimise missed picks, reduce operational disruptions, and lower maintenance costs, ultimately enhancing productivity.

Thailand, a key manufacturer for industries like automotive, electronics, medical devices, and textiles, is facing a significant workforce shortage. The National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) recently highlighted a projected decline in the workforce by 3 million people by 2037. With the country’s working-age population standing at 40.7 million against a demand for 44.71 million, automation is seen as a critical solution to bridge the gap and boost productivity. MiR’s partnership with Sonic Automation aims to tackle this issue by rolling out advanced AMRs equipped with cutting-edge artificial intelligence.

MiR and Sonic Automation showcased their collaboration with a workshop titled “Navigating the Future - Transforming Logistics with AMR” on 24 May 2024. Key highlights included the AI-powered MiR1200 Pallet Jack and the compact MiR 250, demonstrating the innovative capabilities and operational benefits these robots bring to industrial logistics.

The MiR1200 Pallet Jack represents a significant leap in automation technology. With artificial intelligence capabilities that learn and adapt through data changes, it ensures rapid and accurate pallet recognition, even in suboptimal conditions. The MiR1200 can handle a payload of up to 1,200 kg and move at a speed of 1.5 metres per second. It uses 3D vision technology for 360-degree coverage, facilitating precise identification, picking up, and delivery of pallets. Adhering to international safety standards, the MiR1200’s advanced obstacle detection and safety features ensure a secure working environment.

Beyond the MiR1200, the MiR250 also illustrates MiR’s innovation in AMR technology. Compact and agile, the MiR250 measures just 580 x 800 mm and stands 30 cm tall, yet it can manage weights up to 250 kg at speeds of up to 2 metres per second. The robust design ensures durability and easy maintenance, while its compliance with the latest safety standards underscores MiR’s commitment to safe and efficient automation.

Mr Surote Panasahatham, Country Managing Director of Sonic Automation, expressed optimism about the partnership, highlighting the growing interest in AMRs among industrial clients in Thailand. He noted that this collaboration with MiR could accelerate the adoption of automation technologies in local industries, preparing them for future advancements in manufacturing and logistics.

Echoing this sentiment, Mr Tang Poi Toong, Vice President of Sales Asia Pacific at MiR, emphasised Thailand’s crucial role as an industrial manufacturing hub in the ASEAN region. He underscored the significance of this partnership with Sonic Automation as a pivotal step in expanding MiR's footprint and fostering the adoption of AMR technologies in Thailand.