Right on track

EA Mobile Robotics — a customer of Trimtec, a Trimble authorized dealer — is a division of EA Elektroautomatik in Sweden AB that develops, assembles, programs, operates and installs automated guided vehicle (AGV) and autonomous mobile robot (AMR) solutions. These solutions operate directly within customers' production environments, handling everything from motors and axles to gearboxes. At Volvo, for example, engines hang on EAMR’s load carriers as they go through the assembly line.

Traditionally, AGVs are controlled by defined loops milled into the industrial floor. Designing these paths begins in 2D CAD, utilizing factories' existing AutoCAD layouts. However, when EAMR attempted to mark the loops in the factory, the drawing and reality rarely matched.

To solve this, EAMR had developed a triangulation system with reference points that were measured manually and entered into Excel lists. While very accurate, it could take up to two weeks, and for changes, the lists needed to be redone.

To streamline the work of drawing and installing the loops that guide the AGVs, EAMR started using the Trimble Ri total station. During installation, reference points are marked directly in the factory using lasers or prisms. The total station accommodates real-world deviations — such as pillars that are 200 millimeters off or protruding details — directly on-site without redrawing or delays.

With the Trimble Ri, the work has completely changed. What previously took a couple of weeks can now be done in about 30 minutes. Mechanical designer Gustaf Wall notes that the new working method is also easier to teach, as the system no longer requires extensive manual calculations. Safety is central in Swedish factories, and EAMR brings the same working approach even when they operate internationally. Ultimately, the Trimble Ri streamlines the entire workflow from planning to completed installation.