AGV robots, or progressive automation
We are witnessing the fourth industrial revolution, which is based on the use of modern IT technology and automation. Huge changes are being seen in the manufacturing and logistics sectors in particular. The driving force is largely the e-commerce industry and its rapid growth. Increasingly, AGV robots are replacing staff in warehouses. We explain what they are!
What are AGV robots and how do they work?
AGV robots Automated Guided Vehicle are remotely programmed, self-propelled transport trucks used primarily in warehouses. They move along a set path, recognising the destination using RFID (radio-frequency identification) technology. They have safety switches, as well as a laser space scanner and cameras to analyse their surroundings and prevent collisions. The load is placed in either the vehicle body or a special trailer. In this way, employees can be relieved of carrying goods, picking products, etc.
Why is there a shift towards automation?
The huge popularity of the e-commerce industry has led customers to expect fast, secure and, at the same time, greener deliveries. In warehouse processes, every second counts. Automation promotes optimisation because it enables even very large loads to be transported efficiently and relieves the workload of employees so that they can attend to other matters.
Operators are constantly looking for new solutions to modernise logistics and intralogistics in order to improve the level of service offered. Only in this way they can meet current and future customer expectations. There are numerous benefits to investing in AGV robots as, in the long term, it helps to reduce expenditure on maintaining a team of employees, while maximising service efficiency, leading to improved customer satisfaction levels and perpetuating a favourable company image.