Fully automated guided vehicles
Time pressure, efficiency requirements and the demand for top performance characterize your industry. Staff shortages, rising costs and a lack of automation expertise make success difficult. This is where automated guided vehicles (AGVs) offer a solution for process optimization.
AGV Automated guided vehicles
Roadmap for the successful implementation of an AGV project
Advantages of automated guided vehicles - AGVs
Costs of AGV
By eliminating drivers and reducing errors and accidents, operating costs can be lowered.
With conventional logistics vehicles, 80% of costs are accounted for by personnel costs alone.
Reliability of AGV
Self-driving vehicles can be used around the clock.
Material flows are optimized through automation, which significantly increases handling capacity.
AGV safety
AGVs reduce the risk of accidents and injuries by using automated safety protocols. As a result, the costs of damage are minimized. The AGV expert opinion provides information on the safety of a system.
FAQ - Frequently asked questions about automated guided vehicles (AGVs)
What is an automated guided vehicle (AGV)?
An automated guided vehicle (AGV) is an automated means of transportation that is mainly used for transporting materials in production and logistics processes. Automated guided vehicles transport goods of different sizes, weights and shapes over a defined network of routes, from standardized transport boxes and pallets to complex components and complete workstations.
What is the difference between autonomous mobile robots (AMR), automated guided vehicles (AGV) and automated guided vehicles (AGV)?
Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) consist of one or more automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and operate on fixed routes with centralized control and are suitable for predefined tasks in stable environments, while autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) navigate flexibly and intelligently in dynamic environments by using sensor technology and artificial intelligence. AGVs offer less flexibility, while AMRs can automatically adapt to changes and work efficiently in real time.
What different automated guided vehicles are there?
Different concepts of automated guided vehicles have been developed for the various transportation requirements in logistics and production. The following transport vehicles are used most frequently: fork-lift AGVs, piggyback AGVs, tractor AGVs, underride AGVs, assembly AGVs, heavy-duty AGVs, mini AGVs, outdoor AGVs and special AGVs.
What advantages do automated guided vehicles offer?
The systems offer high scalability by expanding the number of automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and transfer stations as well as the option of implementing layout changes. They adapt well to fluctuations in dynamic material flows and enable the safe and reliable transportation of almost any conveyed goods by adapting the load handling device.
Are automated guided vehicles safe?
Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are safe because they are equipped with advanced sensors, real-time monitoring, emergency shutdowns and intelligent route planning to avoid collisions and ensure consistent performance.
What applications are automated guided vehicles suitable for?
Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are ideal for use in warehousing, logistics, production, hospitals, airports, retail and various industries. In principle, they can be used anywhere where goods need to be transported regularly.
Which automated guided vehicle system is best suited to my application?
We can discuss your requirements in a personal consultation and in the AGV basic check we will show you whether the system is technically feasible and economically viable. You can also take a look at our white papers, which provide you with valuable knowledge about AGV projects.
Components of automated guided vehicle systems
Automated guided vehicle systems consist of one or more automated guided vehicles (AGVs), a control system, a location determination system, a data transmission system and the infrastructure with peripheral equipment.
An automated guided vehicle (AGV) essentially consists of a chassis, a computer, one or more drive(s), the power supply, a load handling module, a communication module, a safety component and a user interface.
If you would like to learn more about automated guided vehicle systems, we recommend our AGV basic training course or our free white papers.
Navigation concepts for automated guided vehicles (AGVs)
Choosing the right navigation method is a decisive factor for the success of your automated guided vehicle system. ProLog Automation has the necessary expert knowledge to ensure that the navigation is perfectly tailored to your requirements. Below is an overview of the most common types of navigation:
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Physical lane-based navigation
These cost-effective solutions use guide wires, magnetic tapes or colored lines that the vehicles follow on a fixed lane. The disadvantage of this installation is its limited flexibility and susceptibility to damage. -
Virtual track-based navigation
Technologies such as magnetic point/grid navigation or laser triangulation combine high precision with flexibility. Instead of physical tracks, these systems use digital maps or magnetic grids, which makes them more versatile. -
Free (autonomous) navigation
With contour navigation (SLAM), vehicles adapt independently to their surroundings. This method requires no additional infrastructure, but reacts more sensitively to changes in the environment.
With ProLog Automation you will find the ideal navigation solution for your individual requirements.
Safety concepts for automated guided vehicles (AGVs)
Safety has top priority! Automated guided vehicles are equipped with state-of-the-art safety solutions to ensure safe operation and the protection of people and equipment.
Active safety systems
- Personal protection scanner: Dynamic adaptation of the safety fields to the speed of the AGV. Persons in the warning area automatically cause the speed to be reduced or the vehicle to stop.
- Ultrasonic sensors: Reliable obstacle detection, insensitive to dust, moisture and ambient light.
- 3D cameras: Precise detection of obstacles such as overhanging loads or forks of other vehicles.
- Visual and audible warning signals: Directional lights, indicators and audible warning signals ensure maximum visibility and safety, especially in areas with high traffic volumes.
Passive safety systems
- Bumpers: Mechanical bumpers that stop the AGV immediately on contact.
- Emergency stop button: Manual emergency stop functions that enable a quick response in dangerous situations.
Our expertise enables us to provide you with comprehensive advice on the safety of automated guided vehicles – so that your system is optimally protected.
AUTOMATED GUIDED VEHICLE
The benefits of automated guided vehicles at a glance:
Flexible
Tailored to individual requirements: Automated guided vehicles can be used flexibly and can be adapted to changes.
Load reduction
As automated guided vehicles take on heavy and repetitive tasks, they reduce the physical strain and risk of injury for human workers.
Efficiency
Driverless transport vehicles are able to work around the clock, which significantly shortens throughput times.
Cost reduction
Although the initial investment can be high, driverless transport vehicles reduce operating costs in the long term.
Security
Automated guided vehicles are equipped with sensors and advanced safety systems that prevent accidents and collisions.
Traceability and transparency
Automated guided vehicles are often integrated into digital systems that enable real-time monitoring and tracking of materials and products.
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Our AGV and AMR expert Markus Zipper is available to answer any questions you may have about your AGV project.
