Since 1953, Automated Guided Vehicles (AGV) have been a tremendous component of modern industry. AGVs have served the automotive, eCommerce, electronics, healthcare, food/beverage, warehouse/distribution industries and many more. The 2022 compounded growth rate for AGVs is a staggering 9.34% with an expected $2.7 billion industry value, which is up $1.3 billion from $1.4 billion in 2017.
There are considerable benefits to AGVs for your industry, from reduced labor to increased efficiency. We’ve outlined AGV’s potential applications and benefits below.
Most AGVs today are laser-guided, following a free range system. This system often uses computerized instructions to direct these AGVs throughout the facility. Because of this, free range systems offer flexibility as the internal navigation reroutes the vehicle according to obstructions, ensuring the vehicle is operating smoothly and efficiently.
However, there are numerous forms of AGV navigation. These include:
● Free range (as discussed)
● Inertial
● Optical
● Laser
● Inductive
● Magnetic Tape
Some common types of AGVs include unit load, towing, case, fork and conveyor. Depending on your specific needs, AGVs can be customized to address your material sorting, storage, transportation, delivery needs and more. By utilizing them in your manufacturing facility, you can expect to increase your overall efficiency.
Although there is an initial investment cost associated with AGVs, over time you’ll find that your bottom line will benefit from utilizing AGVs for your organization.
These benefits include, but aren’t limited to:
● Reduced labor count
● Less product damage
● Improved accuracy and efficiency
● Increased safety
● 24/7 operations
● Reduced operations cost
For larger operations with multiple AGVs, it may be necessary to have a traffic operating system and traffic controller. Although this may be an additional cost, the benefits outweigh the financial risks as more AGVs (and a traffic control system) can cut down on manpower and labor costs even further.
The HAWKER FLEX® Thin Plate Pure Lead (TPPL) batteries are the perfect power choice for AGV applications. FLEX® TPPL batteries offer opportunity charging and fast charging with no battery changing and virtually no maintenance. These batteries provide significant operational benefits at a lower cost of ownership compared to traditional flooded, gel, or air mixed batteries. In addition, our modular chargers and soon to be introduced inductive (wireless) charger, provide continuous recharging power to our batteries to keep them up and running with little to no human interaction.
To learn more about Hawker battery and charger options for your AGV, click here.
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With authorized sales and service centers across North America, HAWKER® can provide the best solution for your business’ needs. From forklifts to AGVs, we offer a range of solutions that will bolster production while keeping your operation sustainable and environmentally-conscious. Contact your local HAWKER® representative today by calling 1-877-7HAWKER or click here.
