AGV BENEFITS: SAFETY, LOWER COSTS & MORE!
An Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV), also known as a mobile robot, is a wheel-based driverless vehicle navigated through a computer system. The machine can carry a variety of materials in different types of warehouses and facilities.
The robot works by following a designated path predefined by elements such as magnetic tape, grid, wires, laser, and more. The path that is laid out is done so with efficiency and to lessen traffic on the floor.
The vehicle uses host software. Through programming, this software is the vehicle controller. The AGV system can transport loads and material that needs to be transferred from one place to another within a specific area. The vehicles can also transport heavy loads in small confined spaces, making them useful and flexible.
Today, many AGVs are doing the work of conveyor systems and human-driven forklifts in large manufacturing facilities.
POSSIBLE APPLICATIONS
You can program a mobile robot to do various jobs. Some typical applications include storing and retrieving items, truck loading, moving from work station to work station, moving from manufacturing to storage, pallet transport, and more.
You can designate what you need the vehicle to do and where you need it to go through the software. Available software can also generate reports and monitor system performance.
TYPES OF AGV VEHICLES
There are several types of AGV vehicles on the market today. The most flexible of all the AGVs is the masted vehicle. The masted AGV is preferred by many because it can perform a variety of different jobs such as stacking, racking, and transporting. You can also fit your AGV with manual lift truck attachments.
Unit load AGVs and Tow AGVs are both used mostly to transport loads. While the Unit load is more compact, the tow vehicles are able to tow several wheeled carts, making it very cost-effective for most companies.
BENEFITS OF USING AN AVG
There are many benefits to using AGVs, but these benefits fall within two main categories. The two main reasons that companies use AGVs have to do with cost and efficacy. The first is the ability to reduce the number of employees you need to do specific jobs.
The ability to reduce your labor cost is an essential factor for many. Companies can save money by hiring fewer people or shifting people to more useful and resourceful positions, which increases productivity in the long run.
The second benefit of having a mobile robot is that you can transport materials safely and quickly. When using computer run vehicles, companies do not have to worry about the mishandling of materials or possible employee injuries.
THE BOTTOM LINE ON AGV’S
An automated guided vehicle system (AGV) is another cost-reducing option for companies that handle different materials. Investing in this system can save you money regarding labor costs and insurance by limiting potentially damaged goods and injured employees.
In addition to cost-saving benefits, AGVs also allow companies to create efficient and well-managed facilities. As with any investment, research is essential when deciding which AGV is more suitable for your company.
