German machining manufacturer Safelog has launched its latest family of automated guided vehicles (AGVs), which can lift loads of up to 1,500kg.
With three model sizes available, Safelog’s AGV portfolio can be implemented in different environments.
An agent-based control system eliminates the need for a higher-level central station, enabling efficient and cost-effective operation of the AGVs, as well as deployment in swarm sizes of several hundred.
Mathias Behounek, managing director of Safelog, said: “The software is configured customer-specifically to the respective needs and ensures route coordination as well as task distribution through its swarm intelligence.”
Furthermore, the control system allows for omni-directional travel, so the AGV can move in any direction at any time. Safelog said this increases the operational flexibility of the vehicles as they can maneuverer in tight spaces.
Depending on the model and the task, the AGVs can be equipped with various superstructures. The devices are also suitable for coupling trailers and trolleys or lifting and transporting top loads, with the AGV L1 model able to tow up to 3,000kg.
Behounek added: “When developing our flexible and intelligent AGV models, we took the requirements going hand in hand with advancing automation into account.
“In doing so, we have benefited from our many years of experience in mapping and implementing intralogistics processes.”
Whilst the AGVs currently use WLAN to communicate, the use of new 5G connections is being trialled. A dedicated app for mobile devices also ensures a real-time system overview and displays the current operating status.
Additionally, the AGVs can be fitted with charging contact plates to charge batteries during operations to avoid interruption of the material flow and enable mapping of a three-shift operation.
