Siemens Logistics has launched VarioTip, a product for the automated unloading of baggage from unit load devices (ULDs).
A powerful tilting device enables VarioTip to empty up to 20 ULDs – circa 800 items of baggage – per hour in the arrivals and transfer zone. Once unloaded, the baggage is singulated and fed into the existing system. According to Siemens Logistics, airports that opt for VarioTip instead of manual processing can achieve a significantly higher continuous baggage throughput in a shorter time frame. The airports will also benefit from minimal manual intervention and enhanced ground handling ergonomics.
“With our latest development, we are supporting the growing demand for automated processes in airports,” said Michael Reichle, CEO of Siemens Logistics. “The VarioTip technology is both extremely robust and highly sophisticated, significantly increasing the degree of automation in baggage handling. This offers our customers an optimised work environment and higher productivity, as well as a clear competitive advantage.”
According to Siemens Logistics, ULD emptying with VarioTip makes it possible to achieve consistently high and reliable throughput rates over an extended period. This is essential for conveying transfer baggage quickly and safely, in turn reducing the left-behind index (LBI). The optimal singulation of the full range of baggage items following the tilting process and the consequent feeding into the present system also contributes to this.
Its compact, modular design means VarioTip can be integrated into almost any existing conveyor system. The solution also offers a wide choice of possible layout as well as state-of-the-art, energy-efficient drives. VarioTip unloads various sizes of ULD, among them AKE, AKH and DPE.
A use case is currently being piloted at Munich International Airport, where VarioTip was installed at an existing bag drop in the Terminal 2 arrivals zone during – and without disrupting – ongoing operations. The aim is to test, under real conditions, the automated emptying of the ULDs during baggage handling operations, said Siemens Logistics.
