With the widespread application of intelligent warehousing and logistics systems and flexible manufacturing systems, and the gradual development of factory automation and computer-integrated manufacturing systems, the functions of common intelligent equipment, AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles), have become increasingly comprehensive, and their application scope and technological level have developed rapidly. As a crucial tool for automated handling and loading/unloading in warehousing and logistics, AGVs effectively connect various links by linking and regulating discrete logistics management systems, achieving automated and continuous logistics operations throughout the factory, making factory logistics operations more efficient and intelligent.
Combined with WMS (Warehouse Management System) and leveraging the MES (Manufacturing Execution System) information management platform, AGVs can efficiently, accurately, and flexibly complete logistics handling tasks, improving production flexibility and enterprise competitiveness. AGVSs are primarily responsible for task scheduling, traffic control, remote monitoring, and information recording and feedback for the AGV team. AGVSs interface with MES, WMS, and other systems, providing enterprises with more complete enterprise logistics management processes and financial management information.
The AGV system communicates with the host of the higher-level information management system (MES/WMS/ERP, etc.) to generate, send, and provide feedback on handling tasks. For example, when AGVSs interface with the WMS system, they receive the demand information transmitted by the WMS and the location. When suppliers deliver goods to the warehouse according to purchase orders, AGVs need to receive them. Information regarding the placement and arrangement of the goods within the warehouse comes from the WMS (Warehouse Management System). If goods need to be shelved, the WMS generates a shelving task queue based on the type and quantity of the goods and assigns the tasks to the AGV system, which then stacks the goods. The WMS issues shipping instructions based on the production system's requirements. Upon receiving the instructions, the AGV system uses RFID or QR code systems to identify the corresponding goods and, after confirmation, places them in the appropriate location. Order information is then sent from the upper-level system, converted into material information. Manual pickers load materials into AGVs, which transport the materials to their designated workstations on the production line. Empty material boxes are retrieved, and finished products are moved to the finished goods warehouse. The AGV system reports the task execution status to the upper-level information management system host.
The high degree of automation of AGVs is also reflected in their automated charging capabilities. When the AGV's battery is about to run out, it sends a charging request to the system and automatically queues up for charging. Each 15-minute charge provides approximately 4 hours of operation. The system's built-in intelligent control allows for more orderly goods placement and a cleaner workshop, thus improving logistics management. AGVs require much narrower aisles than traditional forklifts, and their free-moving nature allows for accurate loading and unloading of goods from conveyors and other mobile equipment, effectively reducing process steps.
