Real-World Examples of AGV Installations

Warehousing/Distribution — Unit Load Carrier

AGVs with powered lift/lower decks are used to transport pallets between the truck docks, storage and repack/picking areas in the distribution facility. Pallets are tracked during AGV transport. Pallets to be transported are scanned for ID. The customer host computer communicates the pallet’s destination to the AGV Vehicle Manager PC.

The AGV Vehicle Manager is responsible for selecting the closest, available AGV to carry out the next, waiting pallet transport mission. The AGVs constantly communicate their location, whether they are loaded or empty, battery status and destination. An AGV selected by the Vehicle Manager is commanded to the appropriate pallet pickup station. After arrival, the AGV drives under the pickup stand, elevates its deck, lifting the pallet off the stand, and receives its destination.

The AGVs interface with both static load rail type stands and powered accumulation conveyors. On the shipping and receiving dock, manned forklifts load and unload the AGV load stands. In all other areas, the pick and drop stands are accessed by automated conveyor or storage system equipment. The system, with four AGVs is designed to support up to 50 pallets per hour. The system payback was approximately two years.