MSG Deepens Partnership with KNAPP

MSG, a leading developer and manufacturer of mechatronic components for the automotive industry, has opted for cutting-edge automation technology from KNAPP for their brand-new production hall in Hörmsdorf, Austria. An automated small parts warehouse and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) will provide efficient support for the production process and optimize warehouse logistics. This is MSG’s next step in building on their successful partnership with KNAPP, which began in 2010 and is still going strong. The new system is scheduled to come on stream in July 2025.

Innovative automation for efficient production logistics

MSG Mechatronic Systems is planning to construct a new production hall in Hörmsdorf, Austria to expand their production capacity. To optimize the storage and supply of small parts to production, MSG ordered an automation solution from KNAPP for their new system. The heart of the new solution is the automated small parts warehouse Evo Shuttle, which uses the available space as efficiently as possible to store raw materials, semi-finished and finished products, and empty containers. A work station that can be used flexibly for goods-in and goods-out is directly connected to the shuttle system. Open Shuttle autonomous mobile robots and an integrated conveyor system supply materials to production just in time and just in sequence, while KNAPP’s KiSoft software package centrally controls the new automation solution. “What sets the technical solution with the Evo Shuttle system for the storage area apart is its reliability and high throughput. The combination of Open Shuttles and conveyors offers an optimal solution for supplying production from storage and for returning empty containers and finished parts to storage,” says Martin Kollmann, Managing Director of MSG Mechatronic Systems GmbH.

Future-proof scalable solution for MSG

“The scalability of the system, which makes future expansions of the production area possible, is its most exciting feature,” says Martin Kriebernegg, Head of Logistics at MSG Mechatronic Systems GmbH. Additionally, production supply is dynamic and flexible thanks to the Evo Shuttle automated small parts warehouse and Open Shuttle autonomous mobile robots. “We worked together closely to create the best possible layout for the first extension, one that would optimally connect our production systems, the racks and the paths for the Open Shuttles,” continues Martin Kriebernegg. The AMRs can adapt smoothly to new processes in the future. Adding Open Shuttles as needed when production expands is simple and can be done independently by MSG. This level of flexibility means that MSG has the tools they need to meet not only their current requirements, but their future ones as well.

Long-term, successful teamwork

“KNAPP is the ideal partner for fulfilling our special requirements because they are a system provider – and the fact that they are close by is ideal, too,” says Martin Kollmann. The revolutionary automation solution marks the next step in MSG’s long-term partnership with KNAPP, which began in 2010 with an automated small parts warehouse at MSG’s location in Wies. The system was expanded in 2015. “A decisive factor in choosing KNAPP was the long-term partnership and the many years of friendly, cooperative teamwork we’ve shared. Furthermore, implementing the system with a reliable partner is very important because we have a very strict timeline and cannot afford any delays,” explains Martin Kollmann. With the new automation solution, MSG will be able to count on maximum reliability in Hörmsdorf, too.

About KNAPP Industry Solutions

KNAPP Industry Solutions is the specialist within the KNAPP group for tailor-made solutions for industrial, manufacturing and distribution logistics as well as for autonomous mobile robots. In Austria, the Dobl location and the KNAPP campus together form the center of solution development and implementation for these sectors. As a value chain tech partner, KNAPP supports renowned manufacturers such as Terberg, Pankl Racing, Würth, Magna, Knorr-Bremse, VW and Fronius in their value creation. 

About MSG Mechatronic Systems GmbH

MSG is an Austrian company that develops and manufactures high-grade mechatronic components for the automotive industry. The company employs around 240 people and has a yearly turnover of 50 million euros. Since 2005, MSG has been winning over their customers with their problem-solving expertise, flair for innovation and high product quality. Absolute precision, zero tolerance for errors, top reliability and 100 percent traceability are the foundations of their almost completely automated production. Each individual piece is traced seamlessly from goods-in to delivery to the customer.

www.msg.at