Grenzebach Automation - Automated Baggage Loading and Unloading Equipment

With its fully automated baggage loading and unloading solution, Grenzebach Automation substitutes one of the last manual operations in baggage handling and finally closes the remaining automation gap between the luggage conveyor and the apron.

The system analyses incoming bags, and with this data the optimum load position within the ULD/ramp cart is determined. A robot, equipped with a special loading tool, performs the actual loading process.

Automation systems for baggage handling

Airline passenger numbers are constantly increasing and subsequently so are the piles of bags to be handled. In view of shorter timeframes and stringent security regulations, airports have invested a lot of money in high-capacity, fully controlled automation systems for baggage handling, but all the same loading the bags into containers and carts still is an entirely manual process.

Thanks to Grenzebach Automation, however, this is a thing of the past. The company has developed a fully controlled baggage loading solution that automates one of the most physically demanding jobs at an airport.

Modular baggage loading and unloading equipment

The Grenzebach solution consists of several modules. First the baggage is analysed and parameters such as weight, geometry and type of bag are assessed. Optionally, baggage identification via barcode or RIFD can be made. Using this data, a load manager automatically calculates the optimum load position within the ULD/ramp cart.

When loading several containers at the same time, sorting criteria such as flight destination and flight class are considered. The actual loading is performed by a standard industry robot which is equipped with a specially developed tool for handling the luggage. An optical survey system verifies the loading process, so the loading of already partly filled containers or baggage carts is possible.

Bag handling and bag flow management system

The Grenzebach Automation loading solution can be integrated as an add-on into existing baggage handling systems. Alternatively, an island version upgrades bag handling and bag flow management and when incorporated into new baggage handling processes, optimum integration into the handling process is achieved.

Rapid and secure baggage handling equipment

Whatever level may be installed, applying automated baggage loading drastically reduces handling costs by minimising miss-loads and damage. It enables the determination of location of each bag in the load device and makes baggage reconciliation easier. With departure slots becoming tighter this feature helps to cut down flight delays. Also, the risk of unauthorised access to luggage is reduced.

All of these are important factors for airport security and profitability in a tight, competitive situation.

Optimum-efficiency baggage loading and unloading equipment

Robot handling offers a variety of advantages, one of them - and certainly not the least - being taking physical strain from airport staff. Given that some bags weigh up to 40kg, injuries and damage to the spine are, in the long-term, almost inevitable.

From the point of view of industrial medicine and occupational safety the use of a loading robot contributes to optimised working conditions and a safe working environment. It also increases operators' productivity by 200%-300% compared to them performing the physical work themselves.

About Grenzebach Automation

Grenzebach Automation, located in Karlsruhe, Germany, is part of the Grenzebach Group and focuses on developing technology for the automation of logistic processes. Grenzebach is a well-established manufacturer of production and handling technology for the flat glass, building panel and veneer industries worldwide. This provides an optimum background for its innovative baggage-loading technology.