For more than 50 years, automated guided vehicles (AGVS) have been helping to optimize the logistics process, but many manufacturing enterprises still know little about them. Therefore, it is worth looking at which variants exist, why they are worth using, and what is needed for successful implementation of the technology in addition to determination and resources.
As the name implies, AGV is a mobile and self navigational robot, for example, it uses magnetic strips or color strips laid on the floor to navigate. They are often used in logistics tasks to improve the efficiency of material flow. They wait at a predetermined place until they are instructed. After receiving the instruction, they autonomously navigate to the designated place.
The AGV can connect with the fleet management system, distribute tasks between machines, control when they charge, and ensure communication between the AGV and other warehouse systems.
Several alternative solutions
AGVs can navigate their environment in several ways, and one of the most frequently selected solutions is to use tape. One of the reasons for its popularity is its simplicity and consequent cheapness. Another ideal feature is that the path marked for the robot can be easily modified by removing the old tape and laying a new tape. In addition, resistance to various pollutants is another advantage of this technology.
Special color tape is another effective solution. They are very similar to magnetic variants, for example, they are easy to reconfigure. The tape is recognized by the robot using sensors such as a simple camera. However, the disadvantage is that in a dirty and dusty environment, the sensor and the tape itself may be contaminated, making the machine unable to move.
The third option is wired navigation, laying wires on the floor to transmit radio signals, and the AGV moves according to these signals. The advantage of this solution is that it is cost-effective and is not affected by dust. However, its disadvantage is that it is difficult to create new paths and is affected by electromagnetic interference.
The fourth option is laser, based on AGV mounted laser projectors and ambient reflective surfaces. In a dynamic and often changing environment, it is an ideal solution because its elements are easy to relocate. On the other hand, it is more expensive than tape solutions, and dust may be a problem.
Many advantages
AGVs can move materials between workstations of human operators and between machines. With their help, even picking in the warehouse can be partially or completely automated. In the former case, the AGV that transports the selected products is behind the sorting machine, while in the latter case, the AGV itself can sort products, for example, with the help of a robot arm.
With AGVs, material handling operations can be carried out more efficiently, thereby improving productivity. Another advantage is that they can replace manpower in dangerous tasks.
Capital and willingness are not enough
However, before committing to use AGV, capital alone is not enough. You need to make sure that you can set up a charging station for the battery powered robot somewhere. In the case of WiFi Based AGV, it is also necessary to check whether there is sufficient coverage in the operation area, and consider pollution and electromagnetic radiation.
