Real-World Examples of AGV Installations

Manufacturing/Plastics: Unit Load Carrier

A single bi-directional AGV services an injection molding production area. Its purpose is to transport tubs of plastic molded parts to a stretch-wrapper, drop-off station. Each molding machine has a non-powered roller conveyor AGV load stand. The AGV is equipped with a powered roller deck and a parasitic (slave) drive power takeoff mechanism. When the AGV arrives at a pickup location, it extends the power takeoff roller drive wheel to cause the load stand’s rollers to turn. The waiting load is automatically transferred to the AGV. A significant system cost reduction resulted because the pickup stands are simple and non-powered.

In the injection molding area, several operators are responsible for groups of production machines. When a molding machine has nearly filled a tub, the operator uses a nearby AGV call terminal to summon the AGV. Calls for AGV service are handled on a first come, first serve basis unless a priority exists. The AGV responds to service calls by picking up the full tote and transporting it to an automatic stretch-wrap drop location.

The AGV system has systematized the production transport operation. Timely response to production demands has improved overall plant efficiency. The system operates 24 hours-a-day, seven days-a-week and has achieved approximately 99% uptime.