What is an AGV?
AGV stands for Automated Guided Vehicle. It is a mobile unit that utilises floor markings or on-board navigation and sensors to travel between locations. Typically, they are used in industrial manufacturing and logistics settings.
A wide range of AGV solutions exist focused at carrying out high-volume tasks whilst moving products, equipment and materials of lower weights. MasterMover, however, offers AGV solutions capable of moving loads up to 20,000kg and beyond.
For example, our TOW300 is used in automotive manufacturing by a well-known car maker. The AGV is used to move parts to the production line and empty units away from it, offering the capability to move up to 3,000kg, using navigation and sensor technology.
The AGV TOW300 gives 10 hours of operation between charges and carries out tasks more efficiently than could be achieved through a more human-involved process.
10 Benefits to utilising AGV electric tugs
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1. Better utilisation of people
Eliminate or reduce the need for your staff to spend time moving materials. AGV solutions make movement of equipment and materials more efficient and allow your people to spend more time doing tasks of greater value-add.
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2. Allows precise, accurate movement
AGV solutions are ideal when working in tight spaces, or when moving a load through areas with minimal clearance.
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3. Repeatability
AGV’s deliver a repeated movement and repeated precision, which matters in a busy manufacturing environment.
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4. Eliminate human error
AGV material handling equipment eliminates this risk by taking control away from a human operator. Safety sensors ensure a programmed response to any detected risk, stopping movement until a hazard has been cleared or moved away.
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5. Maximise safety
AGV electric tugs can be programmed to take action such as reducing speed in certain locations when visibility is reduced, or when the surface becomes wet and traction is impacted.
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6. Better efficiency
An AGV will travel to its destination at a set speed, faster than if the movement was conducted manually, or by pedestrian operated equipment by a person who could be delayed or distracted.
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7. Cost & redundancy vs fixed automation systems
AGV electric tugs are more cost-effective than fixed automation systems.
They are more flexible in terms of being able to carry out a wider range of tasks. Additionally, they are more redundant as they can easily be swapped out to minimise any disruption caused through faults.
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8. Maximising investment ROI
MasterMover AGV electric tugs can be switched to manual operation, so if the need arises, the machine can be taken off its typical tasks and utilised to move any wheeled load within its weight capability.
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9. 24/7 operation
AGV electric tugs that are battery-based offer 24/7 operation. The only consideration is battery charging and replacement (if using multiple batteries).
MasterMover electric tugs can be supplied with spare batteries, which can be stored and charged whilst the machine is in operation. This battery can then be swapped out in between tasks for minimal downtime.
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10. Consistent & reliable
Not only are AGV’s consistent in their function, but they also have relatively consistent costs compared to manual labour and are affordable to maintain. MasterMover electric tugs are made to the highest standards, so are reliable solutions that deliver day after day.
An AGV that fits your application
Regardless of your current phase, we understand that switching to an AGV system is an investment, even if it is one that will inevitably deliver increased ROI, efficiency and safety. Our skilled and experienced team is here to guide you with our tried and tested approach.
Our 5-step process:
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1. The right machine for you
Firstly, we put time into understanding your application.
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2. The right navigation for your site
We’ll explore which navigation system works best.
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3. The right dispatch commands
Next, our team will look at how the AGV gets its instructions to move or ‘pulse’ to the next location.
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4. Integration with your systems
Then, we look at where other system integrations are needed.
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5. Optimise your safety systems
Depending on the environment and application, identifying the right safety systems is key.