Automated Guided Vehicles

What Are AGVs?

AGVs Automated Guided Vehicles, also referred to as AGVs, are an unmanned computer controlled, wheel based vehicle (also referred to as a mobile robot), that run on your plant floor or outside pavement. They are programed to carry loads within defined paths or areas, with navigation being achieved by several different means.

Laser Triangulation
Natural Feature
Optical

Inertial
Wire

Magnetic Tape
Magnetic Grid

They offer dependable, automated movement of materials throughout your facility in a safe, flexible, and timely manner.They are especially beneficial when space saving is important, and are designed to handle a wide variety of load types, heights, load weights, and aisle widths

An AGV system consists of five major components – 1) the Vehicle, 2) Host Software, 3) Wireless Communication, 4) User Interface, and 5) a Battery & Charger.

Where AGVs Might be Considered a Viable Solution

In applications that involve process automation
Multi Shift applications
For transporting consistent and stable loads over extended distances
In non value-added material movement applications
When it is not appropriate to use manually operated forklifts
Applications that require steady and constant throughput
When wanting to create a safer working environment
For dispatch transporting and sorting loads
As a reliable, consistent interface to ASRS

Types of AGVs

Masted – are the most flexible of the types and resemble typical manual lift trucks. They can be fitted with standard lift truck attachments such as forks and clamps.
Unit Load – compact vehicle that usually sits directly underneath the load and is able to interact with stands and conveyors.
Tow Vehicles & Carts – also referred to as tugger vehicles, they usually tow up to 3wheeled carts.
Custom – designed for applications that involve unique loads

Industries that can Benefit from using AGVs

Manufacturing
Warehouses
Distribution Centers
Food & Beverage

Pharmaceutical
Automotive
Hospital
Chemicals/Plastics

Applications & Movements Ideal for AGVs

Applications:

Product storage & retrieval
Pallet handling
Work -in-process movement
Raw material movement
Finished goods movement
Parts & Tooling delivery
Automatic truck & trailer loading

Movements:

Work cell to work cel
Manufacturing to warehouse
Warehouse to manufacturing
Warehouse to picking
Receiving to warehouse
Picking to shipping
Long haul transportation

Benefits of AGVs

Increased Accuracy– reduction in picking and shipping errors
Increased Flexibility– Flexibility: Capable of interfacing to a variety of stands,automation, manufacturing operations
Reduction in Labor Costs– up to 100% labor reduction and overtime and turnover costs can be eliminated.
Increased Safety– accidents involving forklifts, and damage to your equipment andfacility by forklifts, can be reduced and/or eliminated