"WOULD AN AUTOMATED GUIDED VEHICLE SYSTEM
IMPROVE YOUR OPERATIONS?"

AGVS Advantages
- Reduce Manpower
- Increase Productivity
- Eliminate Unnecessary Fork Lift Trucks
- Reduce Product Damage
- Maintain Better Control of Material Management

An Automated Guided Vehicle System (AGVS) can be an integral part of a conventional warehouse characterized by long distances and "same path" movement. It offers an alternative to fixed-path conveyors and overhead materials handling equipment for this type of facility.

A wide range of vehicles move pallet loads of materials and perform various functions such as lift-lowering, towing carts, transferring loads to and from high level pallet racks, and precision placement of loads in pickup and delivery stations. Loads of varying weights (including several thousand pounds each) can be handled.

AGVS Systems are now controlled by flexible, on-board microcomputers. Intelligent terminals and radio frequency controls are incorporated into the system to track and direct vehicles.

Vehicles can move both forward and backward at various programmed speeds. Following a guide wire in the floor, some vehicles can even execute commands off-the-wire or "free range" when required. Sensors mounted throughout the guide path control can direct vehicles in motion. AGVS is frequently utilized in receiving materials into the warehouse and transferring pallet loads from receiving dock areas to pallet rack areas for putaway.

Warehouse areas are best served by an AGVS in two ways. First, when pallet loads are removed from warehouse storage racks, loads are transported to shipping or other warehouse areas. Second, an AGVS can be used to pick up loads from the warehouse and deliver them to work in process areas or to redistribute loads to other manufacturing functions.

Safety sensors and devices are installed on the vehicles to "warn" the vehicle of objects and people. Bumpers and stopping devices, warning horns, lights and other audible sounds can also be provided.

If your distribution center or warehouse is a potential AGVS user, Gross & Associates can design your system as a single component or in conjunction with layout or design plans for modernizing your operation.