Computational advancements engird the entire world and dominate several industries across the globe. However, making mistakes is human nature, and 62% of the respondents report human error from manual process management as the most prominent cause of inventory management issues.
The utilization of warehouse management system automation is becoming the new normal in this tech-centric world. It provides a broad range of advantages, such as better scalability and increased flexibility. 96% of the leaders affirm that innovation is the crucial factor of growth. According to confident predictions, the global shipment of logistics and warehouse robots will accelerate up to 938,000 units by 2022.
Businesses should have at least the basic knowledge of automated material handling solutions, especially AGVs, to stay competitive in this world. Having said that, let’s glide into this article and learn some basic information about automated guided vehicles (AGVs).
What are Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs)?
Automated guided vehicles, abbreviated as AGVs, are also called autonomous guided vehicles or self-guided vehicles. AGVs are the load carriers or material handling systems that autonomously travel throughout the manufacturing facility, distribution center, or warehouse. These vehicles do not depend upon any driver or onboard operator. Warehouse workers usually use AGVs for tasks handled by manual carts, conveyor systems, or forklifts, moving an immense amount of material from one location to another in a repetitive manner.
Types of Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs)
Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are categorized into the following major categories.
- Automated guided carts (AGCs)
- Forklift automated guided vehicles (AGVs)
- Towing automated guided vehicles (AGVs)
- Unit load handlers
- Heavy burden carriers
- Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs)
How (AGVs) Works?
Basically, automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are self-propelled vehicles as sensors and software guide their movement.AGV navigation is guided using the following mechanisms:
- LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging)
- Get guidance
- Vision guidance
- Inertial (gyroscopic) navigation
- Laser target navigation
- Wired navigation
- Magnetic guide tape
Benefits of (AGVs)
Automated handling systems, especially AGVs, provide a vast range of advantages to businesses. From automating the tedious processes to relocating heavy material, the benefits are endless. Let’s have a quick glance at the advantages of automated guided vehicles (AGVs):
- Enhanced efficiency
- Improved productivity and sustainability
- Increased accuracy
- Consistent costs
- Accelerated flexibility
- Efficient utilization of warehouse floor space
- Enhanced safety protocols
Conclusion
At the heart of it all, the purpose of designing and implementing automated guided vehicles (AGVs) is to automate low-value and tedious tasks in the warehouse, allowing warehouse workers to focus on crucial tasks and tasks that require their skills. AGVs set the pace for workers, automate long walks, and eradicates the physical rigors of a traditionally physically demanding job.
Are you searching for robust and reliable automated material handling equipment? MWI Solutions is the best among all the material handling automation companies. From eCommerce to food providers, from aerospace to retail, McCombs-Wall Inc Engineering provides the best and affordable material handling solutions to a vast range of industries. They offer a comprehensive range of leading technologies, including conveyor systems, sortation systems, warehouse control systems, and a lot more.
The partner companies to which MWI resells and installs include Knapp, Lightning Pack, Kindred, SI Systems A-Frames, Hannibal, Hanel, Modsort(Regal Beloit), ID technologies, Intralox, TGW, Interroll, Intelligrated Honeywell, Effimat, OPEX, Gray Orange, and Hytrol. Moreover, technology companies they often integrate with but don’t resell include SICK, Beckhoff, FANUC, Cognex, BestPack, and Rockwell Automation.
Head over to their website and know more about their products and services today!
