Revolutionize Your Fleet with Compact, Automated Battery Management – Everything You Need to Know About the Mini Auto Changer (MAC)

The Mini Auto Changer (MAC) is a fully automated battery changer which was originally designed for changing batteries on Automatic Guided Vehicles (AGVs).

First launched in 2004, the “mini” auto changer was developed for Miller Coors in Georgia, USA. Fully automated but compact, the MAC provides fully automated changing for smaller fleets. Since then, the system has evolved and has been adapted for use with other material-handling equipment.

In an AGV application, the MAC operates without any human intervention. If an AGV requires a battery change, it parks in a designated ‘change location’ and sends a ready signal to the MAC. The MAC will then park adjacent to the AGV and remove its discharged battery using electro-magnetic extraction. The MAC will then retrieve the best fully charged battery from the storage system travel back to the AGV and insert the new battery. A signal is sent from the MAC to the AGV confirming the battery exchange is complete. The AGV returns to active service and the MAC places the discharged battery into the storage system for charging.

One of the key benefits of automation is the precision of the operation. The system can be programmed to ensure battery changes are done without any risk of damage to AGVs, batteries, the storage & charging system and surrounding infrastructure. Every MAC comes equipped with front and rear sensors which will slow down or stop the machine if an object or person is detected in the line of travel. This means if someone happens to step into the system’s operating area, the MAC will detect them and avoid a potential injury. The same applies if an object falls into the path of the MAC, the machine will stop until the object has been removed, thus preventing asset damage.

Every Automatic Changer manufactured by Carney now comes with a remote access module which allows Carney to keep the system updated and provide immediate assistance from anywhere in the world.

In addition to the reduced asset damage that is a given with automation, there are additional savings to be made. Battery changing no longer needs human intervention so the staff involved in this task can be redeployed more productively. Automated battery change is generally quicker so you will notice increased productivity. Automated battery changes can be carried out in total darkness to save on your lighting bills.