5 Key Points When Motorising an AGV
It is vital that AGVs do not fail hence the motorisation you choose for your AGV is critical. Here we have put together 5 points to consider when motorising an AGV:
1. Choosing Compact Motors Where Possible
Compactness plays a crucial role in warehouses. With the ever-increasing demands of e-commerce buyers and the rising expectation of fast delivery, this has become the standard. Consequently, warehouses can no longer afford to be located far from major delivery areas. However, the cost per square meter in suburban regions differs significantly from that in outlying areas. As a result, logistics firms are opting for high-rack storage solutions to address this challenge. These solutions require the use of ergonomic tools capable of vertical movement to reach the necessary heights. Nevertheless, achieving a compact Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) becomes difficult, if not impossible, when the motor is bulky. Thus, the choice of compact motorisation becomes essential. Additionally, drives must be able to fit into confined spaces as they are sometimes integrated into existing trucks. The size of the footprint is a critical concern for logistics applications.
2. Focusing on Ease of Use
Robots were originally designed to assist humans, and motorising your (AGV) is no different. Therefore, maxon’s IDX compact drives come with a comprehensive range of connectivity options as standard, allowing for flexibility according to your specific requirements. These drives are delivered pre-programmed, ensuring immediate functionality once they are plugged in. It’s a true plug-and-play solution.
With the maxon IDX motor, you have the opportunity to define all the necessary parameters through their convenient online configurator. This includes communication protocols, cable requirements, preferred electronics, motor power, brake preferences, and more. Consequently, the motor is tailored to your needs and delivered ready for immediate use.
Motors with integrated electronics can be remotely managed due to their connectivity capabilities. They can communicate with both EtherCAT and CANopen systems, and in the future, with IoT networks as well. This allows robots to be programmed from a computer and controlled remotely, simplifying maintenance procedures. As a result, you can efficiently work on your entire fleet of AGVs at once, performing diagnostics or carrying out updates, for example.
3. Opting for Fast Delivery
Today, responsiveness is fundamental and expected as a standard. maxon is well aware of the challenges in the AGV sector and guarantees delivery of your IDX solution in just 19 days.
4. Design Based on Modularity
AGVs vary in their specific tasks and requirements. Some are designed to carry heavy loads of 1 tonne or more, while others handle loads of around 100kg. Certain AGVs move in a straight line, while others possess integrated steering capabilities. Additionally, some AGVs are equipped for lifting operations.
Given the diverse applications, it becomes crucial to have a modular solution as the foundation for motorization. This allows for the flexibility to select the appropriate motor type, power rating, electronics, connectivity options, communication protocols, motor protection rating, and the inclusion of a brake or encoder, as needed.
Regardless of how you employ your AGV, you can have full confidence in achieving the ideal motorisation solution with maxon’s capabilities and specialised tools.
5. Safety is a Priority
AGVs operate in environments that are not only in close proximity to operators and staff but also alongside other AGVs. Therefore, ensuring safe interaction between humans and machines is of utmost importance, necessitating the implementation of comprehensive safety measures. Therefore, having optical and movement sensors can avoid risking collision. This safety-conscious approach extends to the motorisation aspect as well.
To prevent any potential hazards related to overheating, IDX motorizations incorporate two integrated temperature sensors—one within the motor and another within the electronics. This proactive approach ensures that if any issue arises, the motor is promptly secured, without waiting for the entire system to overheat. Unlike many motors available in the market that only have sensors for electronics, our motorization solution prioritizes responsiveness and safety across the entire system.
We understand that motorising your AGV poses significant technical challenges. To address these challenges, maxon has developed an exceptionally compact motor that outperforms competitors by 25% in terms of performance, all while maintaining a price range that aligns with your business expectations.
For more info on the IDX please contact us below.