Transport
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Packaging
*********

The mobile robot MP-400 is packed in a rugged wooden box which can be reused for future transports.
If the original box cannot be used anymore it is recommended to build a new box of similar design.

The base plate of the box has to be strong enough to carry the robot and to take asymmetric forces, e.g. when moving the box with a forklift. When packing the robot it has to be secured against unintended slipping by sufficient cushioning. In order to prevent dust and dirt from the cushioning material to enter the robot, the maintenance opening should be closed and all connectors should be fastened or covered prior to packing the robot.

Depending on the cushioning material it might be advisable to protect the
brake release button against unintended activation.
If this button is pressed during transport, the robot may move inside the box
and the batteries might get discharged.
Furthermore, the key of the key switch should be removed and transported separately
to avoid damages to the key and the switch.
Further information on the control elements can be found at :ref:`mp-400-operating-elements`.


Unpacking the Robot
*******************

If the robot is shipped in the original transport box only the lid should be removed. Then all small components and the cushioning material can be taken out.

Once the robot is free of all cushioning it can be lifted out of the transport box.
This should be done by at least two people taking hold of the base plate of the platform.
The best places for holding the robot are the areas beside the castor wheels.

.. figure:: MP-400_gripping_areas.png

   Gripping areas of the MP-400

.. warning:: Never try to lift the robot by holding it at the laser scanner or the control elements! None of these components has been designed for lifting forces and they may be damaged.

Short Distance Transport
************************

For short distances the MP-400 can also be transported in the trunk of a car without the wooden box. It still must be secured against sliding and should only be moved very carefully while outdoors.

Long Distance Transport
***********************

As long as the robot is packed properly there are no special requirements when shipping the MP-400.
Only in case the robot has been exposed to very low temperatures (below -10°C)
it should be left to reach room temperature again before turning it on.
This will prevent damages to the electrical and electronic components.

If the brake release button was covered and the key switch was removed
there is no risk of the robot being turned on during the transport or
the batteries being discharged.

.. tip:: To eliminate every risk when shipping the robot as airfreight it is recommended to disconnect the batteries prior to shipping. The batteries are leak proof and approved for airfreight.