The future is MasterMover – Everything you need to know about Automated Guided Vehicles!
With the uncertain economic environment, it’s crucial that businesses of all sizes can identify opportunities to become more efficient and productive. At Briggs, we are committed to delivering innovative solutions to our customers that hav
e a positive impact on their operations, and ultimately help keep business moving.
MasterMover are an award-winning manufacturer of electric tugs, and electric tow tugs, designed to improve operational efficiency and safety in material handling. Their comprehensive range includes pedestrian operated, remote-controlled and autonomous (AGV) options.
The AGV technology is a relatively new concept, but it is already making a big impact with businesses of all sizes. With AGVs delivering significant efficiency gains, manufacturers across a range of industries are increasingly adopting the technology to mobilise their operations.
Despite their rise in popularity, many still aren’t aware of what AGVs are, how they work and the benefits they can deliver to your business.
What are Automated Guided Vehicles?
An automated guided vehicle (AGV) is a material handling system that travels autonomously without the need for an operator.
Different types of AGV and how they work
There are several different types of automated guided vehicles, which are typically split by the navigational method they use. The most common offerings can be split into two categories:
Line Follow
Set to follow a defined path that can be specified by the operator. Line Follow capabilities make sure AGVs follow the same route time after time, even when working in tight spaces or moving loads through areas with minimal clearance.
Barcodes can also be placed on the ground, or other similar identifiable prompts, for the machines to scan for additional programmed information, such as slowing down through a specific area. This makes the environment safer and reduces the risk of damage to high-value loads, the premises, and people.
Natural Navigation
The most sophisticated form of AGV, natural navigation machines use sensors and scanning systems to navigate autonomously by detecting and mapping the environment around them to move around obstacles.
The sensors ensure a programmed response to any detected risk and the units will stop until the hazard has been moved away.
The top benefits of AGV systems
Now you understand the differences and types of AGV technology available, the next question you’ve probably got is “what are the benefits of an AGV system?”
From delivering repeatable movements, to increasing safety within congested production environments, AGV systems can provide an array of benefits for industrial manufacturing environments.
- AGVs improve efficiency and throughput
Without the need for an operator, AGV systems dramatically reduce bottlenecks and downtime associated with waiting for licensed drivers or operators.
- They deliver consistent movements
Automated guided vehicles deliver repeatable movements, every time. This delivers safe, precise movements by removing room for human error.
- They reduce labour time
Freeing up employees for value-adding tasks help you make better use of your people and address potential labour shortages.
- They lower costs
They deliver a greater return on investment by optimising people resources and facilitating a 24/7 operation.
AGV systems can also help to reduce accidents and injuries, which can lead to lower insurance premiums and compensation claims.
- They’re flexible and scalable
Can be easily switched to a manual operation mode to move any wheeled load within their weight capability. This enables them to carry out a wider range of tasks, delivering a flexible solution that allows you to scale up or down operations as needed.
- They’re safe
AGVs are equipped with collision avoidance sensors and extensive safety systems to keep people, products, and plant equipment safe.
- They’re customisable
They can be fully customised to fit the specific needs of your processes and operations.
- They’re environmentally friendly
They are emissions-free and help reduce noise pollution as they’re 100% electric.
Want to find out more about how AGV solutions can help keep your business moving?
Speak to our expert team via [email protected] or by calling 03301 23 98 50