Transport

Packaging

The mobile robot MPO-500 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.

Tip

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 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 who can take hold at the bottom of the hull.

Warning

Never try to lift the robot by holding it at the exterior components mounted to the hull or at the aluminium profiles on the top plate! Neither the exterior components nor any part of the platform’s top plate has been designed for lifting forces and they may be damaged.

Short Distance Transport

For short distances the MPO-500 can also be transported in the trunk of a car without the wooden box. It still must be secured against sliding and should not be driven outdoors.

Long Distance Transport

As long as the robot is packed properly there are no special requirements when shipping the MPO-500. 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 it is recommended to disconnect all the batteries and to ship them outside the robot. This will prevent short-circuiting and other damages. The batteries are leak proof and approved for airfreight.