{"id":29540,"date":"2022-02-22T12:47:00","date_gmt":"2022-02-22T17:47:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hy-tek.com\/?post_type=resources&#038;p=29540"},"modified":"2023-04-28T10:05:05","modified_gmt":"2023-04-28T14:05:05","slug":"advantages-of-an-agv-101","status":"publish","type":"resources","link":"https:\/\/hy-tek.com\/resources\/advantages-of-an-agv-101\/","title":{"rendered":"Advantages of an AGV &#8211; 101"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\nhttps:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=i3PPL9Yv0oo\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">AGVs \u2013 When does it make sense?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>AGVs can be equipped for a variety of loads and applications.&nbsp; There are various navigation and guidance systems (wire-guided, recessed magnetic bars, magnetic tape, visual recognition, or laser-guided) each with its own advantages and disadvantages. This blog explores when an AGV solution might make sense in your operations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>AGVs or&nbsp;<strong><u>A<\/u><\/strong>utomatically&nbsp;<strong><u>G<\/u><\/strong>uided&nbsp;<strong><u>V<\/u><\/strong>ehicles are increasingly being used in operations all over the world to improve safety, reduce operating costs and improve operational efficiencies. They can be used in a variety of applications:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Transport Small Loads<\/strong>&nbsp;(examples could be parts delivery in manufacturing, laundry or food service delivery in hospitals, mail or files in offices)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Transport Unit Loads<\/strong>&nbsp;(examples could be pallets, large containers, or roll handling) \u2013 can be equipped with conveyor surface or fork truck style AGVs)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tuggers&nbsp;<\/strong>(examples could be drive units to pull carts or trailers forming a train-like system)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Custom Applications<\/strong>&nbsp;(examples could be flexible manufacturing or assembly line transport\/indexing)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"292\" height=\"219\" src=\"https:\/\/hy-tek.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Picture3.png\" alt=\"AGV Pallet Truck\" class=\"wp-image-28045\"\/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Companies are always looking for ways to reduce costs. Let\u2019s look at Unit Load Transportation as one example. When you consider a forklift operator accounts for nearly 70% of the operating costs over the life of a vehicle, one could drastically reduce labor costs by deploying AGVs where possible. Forklifts require an operator to move product from point A to point B whereas AGVs do not. Operators take breaks, eat lunch, chat with co-workers, call in sick and take vacations whereas AGVs do not. Manned forklifts are by default, unpredictable and can possibly cause product or facility damage whereas AGVs are fully predictable and do not cause damage. Deploying AGVs for non-value added, repetitive travel allows companies to better utilize personnel for value-added operations.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/hy-tek.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Picture2.jpg\" alt=\"AGV in Warehouse\" class=\"wp-image-28046\" width=\"313\" height=\"250\" srcset=\"https:\/\/hy-tek.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Picture2.jpg 1250w, https:\/\/hy-tek.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Picture2-300x240.jpg 300w, https:\/\/hy-tek.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Picture2-1024x819.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/hy-tek.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/Picture2-768x614.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 313px) 100vw, 313px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Advantages of AGVs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Predictable, safe operation\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Traffic management system guaranteed to avoid collisions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Effective optimization of transport flows according to fleet available, traffic conditions, and transport missions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Flexible\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>No infrastructure required<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Scaleable \u2013 number of AGVs can be increased as the business grows<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Routes are easily reconfigured, depending on the type of guidance system<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Workflow shared efficiently and dynamically between AGVs in the system<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Efficient and Reliable\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>No destination or schedule errors<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Allows more precise inventory management, just-in-time delivery<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Operates 24\/7 with little to no human intervention<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Elimination of barriers\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Unlike conveyor systems, AGVs only block access while traveling through an area or while stationary in a station<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Less potential for System Downtime\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Maintenance is scheduled for individual units, allowing the remaining units to continue to work<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Unplanned failures only impact individual units, not the entire system<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>AGVs can be equipped for a variety of loads and applications. There are various navigation and guidance systems (wire-guided, recessed magnetic bars, magnetic tape, visual recognition or laser-guided) each with its own advantages and disadvantages. As with other material handling applications, one size does not fit all. Each application requires many factors to be taken into consideration when developing the right AGV solution. Want to take advantage of the many benefits related to the use of AGVs?\u2026&nbsp; a call to&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/hy-teksystems.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hy-Tek Material Handling\u2019s Integrated Systems Division<\/a>&nbsp;is a great place to start!<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1649359788925\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">What does AGV Stand for?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>AGV stands for Automatically Guided Vehicle<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1649359815521\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">What is an AGV?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>There are several types of AGVs. These include:<br \/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.daifuku.com\/us\/assets\/pdf\/company\/resourcelibrary\/brochure\/SmartCart_Installed_Systems.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Automated carts<\/a>\u00a0\u2013 The simplest kind of AGV with minimal features for lowest cost implementation.<br \/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mhi.org\/glossary?q=%22unit+load+agv%22&amp;pb=1&amp;fq=&amp;sort=score+desc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Unit load AGVs<\/a>\u00a0\u2013 Individual vehicles that transport loads (typically pallets, bins, carts or bundles) on forks or on the AGV\u2019s deck.\u00a0<strong>Roll-handling AGVs<\/strong>\u00a0specifically handle heavy rolls of steel or paper.<br \/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mhi.org\/glossary?q=%22tugger+agv%22&amp;pb=1&amp;fq=&amp;sort=score+desc\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tugger AGVs<\/a>\u00a0\u2013 Powered units pulling a series of non-motorized trailers that each carries a load.<br \/><a href=\"http:\/\/www.egemin-automation.com\/en\/automation\/material-handling-automation_ha-solutions_agv-systems_agv-types\/forklift-agv\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Automated forklift AGVs<\/a>\u00a0\u2013 An existing forklift truck whose controls have been converted to allow unmanned operation<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1649359827113\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">How Can AGVs be Used?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p><strong>Transport Small Loads<\/strong>\u00a0(examples could be parts delivery in manufacturing, laundry or food service delivery in hospitals, mail or files in offices)<br \/><strong>Transport Unit Loads<\/strong>\u00a0(examples could be pallets, large containers, or roll handling) \u2013 can be equipped with conveyor surface or fork truck style AGV\u2019s)<br \/><strong>Tuggers\u00a0<\/strong>(examples could be drive units to pull carts or trailers forming a train like system)<br \/><strong>Custom Applications<\/strong>\u00a0(examples could be flexible manufacturing or assembly line transport\/indexing)<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1649359848316\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">What are the Benefits of AGVs?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p><strong>Accountability<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 Once a product is onboard an AGV, it is tracked so \u201clost\u201d or misplaced product will be minimized<br \/><strong>Automatic line balancing<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 In a production environment with multiple operations conducted at varying times, AGVs can assist in line balancing<br \/><strong>Cost control<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 An AGV system\u2019s costs are very predictable, while labor costs tend to increase and can change quickly depending on local economic conditions<br \/><strong>Facility maintenance<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 Collision avoidance capabilities prevent damage within the facility<br \/><strong>Flexibility<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 An AGV\u2019s path can be changed as production and handling needs evolve<br \/><strong>Fewer restrictions<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 Free-roaming, AGVs eliminate access issues created by conveyors and require less space than conventional forklifts, allowing for narrower aisles<br \/><strong>Reduced operating costs<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 Charging and battery handling can be automatic with an AGV system and the controlled acceleration\/deceleration minimizes wear on components<br \/><strong>Reduction in product damage<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 AGVs handle products gently, reducing scrap and waste<br \/><strong>Repeatability<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 AGVs perform repetitive movement tasks predictably and reliably<br \/><strong>Safety<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 AGVs always follow their guide path and stop if they encounter an obstruction, improving the safety of surrounding personnel<br \/><strong>Scheduling<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 Because of their reliability and on-time delivery, AGVs improve scheduling capabilities and the efficiency of operations<br \/><strong>Scalability<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 More AGVs can be added to expand capacity and throughput<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>AGVs \u2013 When does it make sense? AGVs can be equipped for a variety of loads and applications.&nbsp; There are various navigation and guidance systems (wire-guided, recessed magnetic bars, magnetic tape, visual recognition, or laser-guided) each with its own advantages and disadvantages. This blog explores when an AGV solution might make sense in your operations. [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":29542,"template":"","solution":[139,140,46],"media-type":[138],"industry":[],"front-end-solution":[174],"class_list":["post-29540","resources","type-resources","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","solution-automated-guided-vehicles","solution-autonomous-mobile-robots","solution-material-handling-equipment","media-type-blog","front-end-solution-robotics-goods-to-person","entry","has-media"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/hy-tek.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/resources\/29540","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/hy-tek.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/resources"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/hy-tek.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/resources"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hy-tek.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/29542"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/hy-tek.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=29540"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"solution","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hy-tek.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/solution?post=29540"},{"taxonomy":"media-type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hy-tek.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media-type?post=29540"},{"taxonomy":"industry","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hy-tek.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/industry?post=29540"},{"taxonomy":"front-end-solution","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/hy-tek.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/front-end-solution?post=29540"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}