An Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) is a mobile robot which has been programmed to carry out a task without direct human intervention, such as delivering large items between various points.
They navigate an environment on predefined paths by using guidance systems, sensors and control systems to safely move around a workplace. They can help to increase productivity, reduce labour costs and improve workplace safety.
How do automated guided vehicles work?
AGVs are equipped with various sensors, navigation systems and software algorithms to enable them to navigate and interact with their surroundings. They will follow predefined routes, avoid obstacles and perform their programmed task.
The specific configuration and capabilities may vary depending on the application and the manufacturer, but the key systems typically found in AGVs are:
Guidance Systems
AGVs that use guidance systems either follow a specific route using magnetic strips or wires that have been embedded to the floor, use laser navigation where reflectors are placed in the environment to allow AGVs to determine their location using laser scanners, or use cameras and sensors to allow them to map their surroundings.
Sensor Systems
AGVs can use sensors to help detect obstacles, identify paths and interact with the environment around them, avoiding collisions and ensuring safe operation around people and other equipment.
Control Systems
Control systems manage the overall operation by receiving data from the navigation and sensor systems to make decisions and control the movement of the vehicle. The control system ensures the vehicle follows the correct path, stops or slows down when necessary and accurately performs tasks.
Power Supply
These include batteries, electric cables or inductive charging systems, to ensure they have sufficient energy to complete their tasks.
What are automated guided vehicles used for?
AGVs are commonly found in warehouses, manufacturing facilities and distribution centres to move materials or goods or deliver parts and tools to workstations on assembly lines.
Automated guided vehicles can also be found in healthcare facilities such as in hospitals, acting as delivery services, from collecting and delivering laundry to and from wards, delivering meals or transporting medical supplies and equipment.
What are the types of automated guided vehicles?
There are different types of automated guided vehicles depending on the type of task required to be carried out. Tugger AGVs are ideal for towing heavy loads on carts or trailers over long distances.
Unit Load AGVs are used in warehouses, distribution centers and factories to transport heavy loads such as pallets or containers as they are equipped with conveyor decks.
Forklift AGVs can carry, lift, retrieve and place materials and goods between locations.
Automated guided carts are designed to transport smaller loads such as meals, linen, waste and supplies across hospitals.
Benefits of automated guided vehicles
Automated guided vehicles offer a variety of different benefits including:
Saving time
AGV systems save time by optimising repetitive processes, reducing the need for manual labour where their time can be valued elsewhere.
Saving money
An AGV can save money on the cost of having an employee complete certain repetitive and time-consuming tasks. They can also be programmed to run 24/7 if needed, meaning no breaks, no overtime or unsocial hours pay.
Improved safety
AGVs have sensors and can avoid collisions by detecting any potential obstacles and come equipped with safety features such as lights and sounds. They can reduce the risk of repetitive strain injury by taking on repetitive tasks, and in the event of an emergency can be overridden with their emergency stop button.
Improved efficiency
By being able to operate 24/7, AGVS don’t require breaks or shifts which increases efficiency and idle time is reduced. The risk of accidental damage and misplaced items from human error is also reduced.
Get in touch
Interested in an automated guided vehicle? Our team are happy to help you identify the best AGV solution for your business. We work have several AGV partners we work with including Kivnon, OTSAW and MLR which enables us to supply your business with high-tech automation solutions to revolutionise the way you work based on your specific needs. Contact us today to learn more about our AGV systems!
