The Solution to Logistical Challenges: AGVs
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- AGVs improve productivity, speed, and quality in the distribution process.
- AGVs enhance working conditions and safety by reducing physical strain on human workers.
- AGVs optimize warehouse space, leading to increased efficiency and cost savings.
In the 1950s, car manufacturers employed guided vehicles in their factories for the distribution of mechanical parts. Over time, various techniques have been developed to enable the controlled movement of these motorised robots as needed. Presently, there are approximately six technologies utilised in these vehicles:
- self-guided
- line-guided
- opto-guided
- geo-guided
- laser-guided
Read more AGVs vs AMRs
All these technologies fall under the umbrella term AGV. The AGV market is currently valued at EUR 550 million, with Europe being the primary market, and it is projected to reach EUR 1.35 billion by 2023. The rapid growth of this market can be attributed to the exponential development of technology in the e-commerce sector. Consequently, e-commerce companies prioritize continuous optimization of their internal logistics processes to streamline operations and ensure swift deliveries. Amazon was one of the pioneers in integrating AGV technology by developing its own intelligent vehicles. Manufacturers also utilize AGVs in automated warehouses to address space constraints effectively.
Moreover, these intralogistics robots are increasingly employed in goods-to-person logistics, where AGVs transport objects and heavy loads directly to human workers. This collaborative working approach, known as #cobotics, involves a symbiotic relationship between humans and robots. AGVs play a vital role in optimizing productivity by assuming physically demanding and repetitive tasks.
Why AGVs/AMRs are the perfect solutions to logistical challenges
Given the development of online commerce, the logistics industry now requires innovative solutions. Autonomous Guided Vehicles (AGVs) effectively address the challenges within the distribution process:
Foremost, they enhance productivity, speed, and quality by enabling operators to handle larger volumes of goods, while ensuring reliability. This approach surpasses human capabilities, achieving over 30% faster operations with reduced errors. Consequently, companies consistently meet orders faster while ensuring safety for both personnel and merchandise.
AGVs contribute to improved working conditions through mechanical assistance, resulting in a significant reduction in musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) and workplace accidents. This aligns with the core principles of collaborative robotics (cobots), which aim to alleviate physical strain on human workers without hindering their ability to perform tasks.
Furthermore, AGVs facilitate space optimization in warehouses, leading to increased efficiency and organization. This advantage becomes particularly valuable in a time where saving every square meter equates to long-term financial gains.
Regarding production, the return on investment for AGVs is typically realised within a span of one to two years.
What to think about when designing/manufacturing an AGV
In order to effectively meet customer demands, particularly in the field of logistics, manufacturers must first address technical limitations. Autonomous Guided Vehicles (AGVs) need to exhibit long-term reliability and durability, operating seamlessly without maintenance for a minimum of two years to maximize warehouse profitability. It is crucial to note that any instances of downtime can trigger a domino effect, resulting in significant financial setbacks. Furthermore, AGVs must possess a compact design to enable owners to utilize smaller warehouse spaces, thereby reducing operational expenses. Despite their smaller size, AGVs should retain the ability to transport heavy loads, necessitating a significant power density. The challenge of achieving miniaturization to save space and developing efficient and robust drive systems becomes an essential aspect in this regard.
maxon motors for AGVs
Optimising space
maxon develops compact motors offering high torque and speed density, such as EC Flat and ECi. These compact motors also consume less energy than other products on the market. This is a powerful argument for manufacturers that need to reduce their costs and address the challenges imposed by energy transition.
Operating efficient communication buses
To address maintenance challenges, the motors with integrated electronics installed in the AGVs must be network-connected. The communication buses of motors from the IDX range are able to communicate simultaneously with the EtherCAT and CANopen systems and on IoT networks. Therefore, these robots can be programmed by computer and operated remotely, meaning that a single intervention is required to control the entire fleet of AGVs.
Specific mechatronic developments
In order to offer AGV designers maximum freedom, the maxon Group has developed an entire range of compact and modular motors. These IDX drive solutions meet the most demanding requirements: offering 20% higher performance compared with the current solutions on the market, the safe, modular and easy-to-configure motors meet all your drive needs.
Furthermore, maxon has specifically developed a wheel drive system for AGVs read more here