An Electrical Equipment Manufacturer Turns to Creform Corporation for an AGV System

An electrical equipment manufacturer, based in Mexico, was looking to optimize its manufacturing operation. It turned to Creform engineers to help develop the right system. The right system proved to be a Creform AGV that transfers unit loads to powered conveyors for automatic load transfers.

The heavy-duty FH-B50066 bolt-on AGV drive, which features standard bi-directional drive, was recommended. The AGV features a single-powered conveyor deck situated at 14 in transfer height. Mechanical load-safety stops drop down when pulling into conveyor stations to allow transfers then rise up when leaving to ensure load is secure for transport. The parts are transferred off both ends of the AGV.

In this application, the overall footprint of the unit is 63 in long x 55 in and travels at a 164 ft/min maximum speed. The unit has a capacity of 1460 lb.

Each end of the vehicle follows an approximately 160 ft long magnetic guide path to ensure accurate and repeatable tracking in space restrictive areas and accurate conveyor alignment for reliable transfers. The vehicle stops and starts automatically and maintains a home position at the upstream process until it is released by an associate.  It then travels and deposits the load, then returns.

The AGV is PLC controlled and features an HMI touch-screen for user and maintenance interface.  Operator interface panels include push buttons at both the front and rear of the unit. It uses floor positioned RFID tags for routing, speed changes and

The AGV features complete equipment for compliance to safety category 3 and includes safety circuit to cut power, audible warning device, flashing light, E-stops, laser scanners and blue-beam projector lights.

The blue safety lights on either end are like those used on forklifts.  They project a large blue dot on the floor in front of the traveling AGV and inform associates that the unit is coming.  This simple projection light lets people know the AGV’s position, direction and speed of travel in time to clear the path.  This helps make the work area safe and allows the AGV to move freely without pedestrians causing unnecessary stoppages.

Options include onboard radio for integration into larger projects with the need for traffic control and the unit can be manufactured to different specs with corresponding operating capacities.

The Creform System is used to create an array of material handling and efficiency enhancing devices and is a proven component in continuous improvement and lean manufacturing programs.