Logistics 4.0 

In Cuneo, in the Piedmont region of Italy, one of Michelin’s largest European factories has become a showcase for smart logistics. In collaboration with Giordano&C. – Automation, and Esatroll, a Swiss technology partner, the site introduced a fleet of six fully electric AGVs to provide a 24/7 link between its production areas and logistics centre. 

“We designed and implemented a comprehensive system, including not only the AGVs themselves and their management software, but also the infrastructure,” explains Marco Raimondo, Business Unit General Manager at Giordano&C. “This involved the creation of a 1.5 km reinforced-concrete track, alterations to existing buildings with new entry/exit doors, and the installation of automatic loading and unloading stations.” 

These AGVs are equipped with an inertial navigation system. They learn their routes and move around completely autonomously between different points on the circuit. Capable of transporting loads of up to 15 tonnes in two parallel rows of pallets, these vehicles can transfer 40,000 tyres a day, in perfect synchronisation with the production and storage systems thanks to a Wi‑Fi and GPS-based system. Automatic modular conveyor stations with Intralox belts ensure the continuity of flows, with no human intervention, in a safe and fluid process. 

By eliminating the need for conventional trucks in transfers across the Cuneo site, Michelin has reduced its CO₂ emissions by 50 tonnes a year. But the benefits are not only environmental: the elimination of internal heavy-goods traffic enhances operator safety; the motion-sensing system on the AGVs reduces the risk of accidents; and the automated processes ensure operational continuity even at peak times. 

Recognised by Michelin as a “4.0 showcase”, the Cuneo site is now a reproducible model for the international tyre group’s other factories. 

Photo: ©Michelin ©Giordano