Answers to Your Most Frequently Asked Questions about AGVs

What is the air-speed velocity of an unladen swallow? European or African? We don't know. What we do know is all about automated guided vehicles for your warehouse and manufacturing operations, and we know the most frequently asked questions you have about AGVs. So, let's combine those two categories to satisfy your curiosity so you'll know what we know. Read on to learn the answers to all your most pressing AGV questions.

How Much Do AGVs Cost?

The cost of automated guided vehicles (AGVs) depends on the job's complexity. Each unit requires programming and installation to ensure it completes its assigned tasks to your specifications. As such, an AGV for a manufacturing plant will require different programming than an AGV for a warehouse, even if the units are the same. The best way to understand your exact costs is to request a quote from our automation team.

How Do AGVs Communicate and Know Where To Go?

Communication between you and your AGVs depends on the model and your infrastructure. Some units activate with just the push of a button. Others integrate into your warehouse management software (WMS). The WMS automatically tasks the unit with scheduled jobs.

Once tasked, autonomous warehouse vehicles follow a preprogrammed path. Some models require magnetic tape or reflective panels to guide them through your facility. However, more and more units are using natural feature navigation made possible by LIDAR and other sensor arrays. These AGVs navigate your facility independently and are more capable of adapting to obstacles.

How Much Maintenance Do AGVs Require?

AGVs like automated tow tractors and automated forklifts are extremely low maintenance compared to their analog counterparts. The safety sensors require regular cleaning. Beyond that, maintenance involves little more than the routine greasing of moving parts and keeping pathways clear of obstructions. In fact, low maintenance requirements are one of the major advantages of adopting automation. In addition to saving your team from tedious labor, AGVs reduce the time your workers spend maintaining equipment.

What Happens if a Unit Goes Down?

Downtime is the bane of any facility, and it's natural to fear that if your AGV goes down, it becomes dead weight. Thankfully, that's not the case. Nearly all the AGVs that we offer have manual operation modes. These can include joystick-style remotes or traditional controls. Either way, they allow you to pilot the unit even if the autonomous navigation equipment requires repair.

How Long Does the Battery Last?

Anyone with an aging smartphone might question an AGV's battery life. However, unlike cell phones, AGVs have a variety of battery options. Each carries its own pros and cons, such as extended run times and rapid charging. When you work with us as your integration partner, we do a complete power study to ensure your unit of choice includes a battery that matches your operational needs.

How Safe Are AGVs?

Movies like Terminator and The Matrix raised questions about the safety of AI and automation long ago, but thankfully modern AGVs are nothing like Skynet. However, the topic of safety still remains relevant. Every unit has its own safety features, and most designs are sensitive enough to work in warehouse environments with pedestrian traffic. Many feature object detection software that automatically stops the unit if an obstruction blocks its travel path. Some even feature programming that allows the unit to navigate around static obstacles. Whatever safety features a unit has, all our units meet ANSI standards.

What Warehouse Conditions Will AGVs Work In?

AGVs for warehouses and manufacturing require clean pathways with minimal cracks and holes. A select few unit designs allow them to handle more challenging conditions, such as light dust and spills from food processing. However, the vast majority of units require high-quality, clean floors in their workspaces. If you aren’t sure if your facility meets these requirements, ask about custom models. In addition to standard models, our customizable units can conform to most indoor environments.

Where Can I Learn More about AGVs?

Think of automation and AGVs like a tailored suit. A lot of features are specific to the needs of the user. Because of that high-level customization, working with a strong integration partner is vital to get the most out of your AGVs. Our team has the expertise you need to get the equipment that best fits your operation. Our experts come to your facility to meet face-to-face and fully understand your process so that our recommendations satisfy your present and future requirements. Let us future-proof your business. Reach out to us and schedule a free warehouse consultation. We’re here for you when you’re ready to modernize your warehouse or facility. 

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Further Reading
AGVs 101: Your Guide To Autonomous Warehouse Vehicles
Product Review: T7AMR Robotic Floor Scrubber
Product Review: Bastian Solutions ML