Controls and Software

Control level software manages AGV / AGC path, routing, traffic control and vehicle control functions. System control level software is utilized in Savant AGV systems when automatic, remote AGV dispatching or remote system monitoring is desired.

Savant AGV / AGCs are "Smart" vehicles performing their own routing and traffic control without the need of higher level "system management" controls or interfaces. This allows the Savant AGV system to operate with or without the need / added cost of higher level system management interfaces.

All Savant AGV / AGCs have onboard control / dispatch panels. The onboard display can show vehicle destination, status, mode, battery condition, error conditions, etc. It can also be used for onboard / local vehicle dispatching and diagnostics.

In base level Savant AGV / AGC systems, the vehicles are dispatched by operators using each AGV's onboard dispatch control panel. This is the normal mode of operation in many standalone systems. AGV / AGC systems that require remote vehicle calling and dispatching are provided with Savant AGV / AGC Vehicle Manager controls. This consists of a central PC which receives calls for vehicle service from remote locations or via a computer link to other interfaced IT systems. Calls for AGV / AGC service can originate from a PLC network, discrete I/O, networked computer systems, etc. The Vehicle Manager PC will queue the calls for AGV / AGC service and select the closest available AGV to respond.

System monitoring is achieved via RF communications with each AGV combined with the ability to graphically display AGV / AGC information including location, destination, battery condition and status. All information can be networked with other IT systems.