What is an automated guided vehicle (AGV)?
Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are self-propelled vehicles that can transport goods and materials automatically without human control. A common synonym is the abbreviation AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle).
Thanks to advanced navigation technologies, driverless transport vehicles can be steered along predefined routes without a driver and are able to avoid obstacles.
What is the difference between AGVs and AGVs?
The abbreviations AGV and AGS are often used as synonyms in the context of material handling automation. However, they do not mean the same thing. An AGV (= driverless transport vehicle) is a single vehicle. This is to be distinguished from the AGV (= driverless transport system) – a higher-level overall system that coordinates the central control of several vehicles.
Find out more about driverless transport systems (AGVs).
In which areas are driverless transport vehicles used?
The areas of application for AGVs are diverse and constantly growing as companies and organizations look for ways to automate and optimize their logistics and transport processes. The specific functions and capabilities vary depending on the requirements of the respective area of application.
The areas of application include, for example
- Intralogistics and warehouse management: AGVs are used in factories, warehouses and distribution centers to optimize the transport of goods, materials and inventories. They support the efficient management of warehouse stocks and the smooth running of production.
- Automotive industry: In automotive production, automated guided vehicles are used to transport parts and assemblies between different production stations. This increases productivity and efficiency in production.
- Healthcare: In hospitals and care facilities, AGVs support the transportation of medication, patient files, laundry and other goods. This enables better use of resources and reduces the need for manual handling.
What advantages do driverless transport vehicles offer you?
Driverless transport vehicles offer you a number of advantages. These include
- Increased efficiency: AGVs can work continuously and without breaks, which increases the efficiency of transport and logistics processes. They can complete tasks faster and reduce waiting times.
- Safe navigation: Automated guided vehicles are equipped with advanced safety features that minimize accidents. They can detect obstacles and avoid collisions.
- Low energy consumption: Most AGVs are electrically powered and consume less energy than conventional forklift trucks.
- Flexibility: A driverless transport vehicle can be easily reprogrammed to meet changing requirements, which is an advantage in dynamic working environments.
- Employee relief: The use of a driverless transport vehicle can relieve staff of repetitive and physically strenuous tasks.
- Integration capability: AGVs can be integrated into existing systems such as SAP to ensure smooth communication with other machines and systems.
- Cost reduction: The use of driverless transport vehicles eliminates personnel costs and other costs caused by human error (e.g. transport damage).
In conclusion
Automated guided vehicles are a promising technology that is revolutionizing the transport of materials and goods in various industries. Their advanced navigation technology enables you to work automatically and efficiently.