High-tech for AGVs: the new generation of smart forks
In a world of intralogistics where every millimeter and every second counts, automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are a valuable complement to humans. For this partnership, the human need for safety and reliability must be considered. If this trust is given, autonomous transport systems work safely side by side with humans - saving time and ensuring reliability. The new generation of VETTER SmartForks AGVReady brings a part of this future into the present: forks with sophisticated sensor technology - customized for AGVs.
Automated guided vehicles must navigate safely in dynamic environments and handle loads stably and reliably. They should integrate smoothly into existing logistics processes and optimally provide a simple and safe human-machine interface. Truly important features such as cost-efficiency, low-maintenance and dependability characterize AGVs.
Intelligent sensor technology in action
The VETTER SmartForks AGVReady have been developed for precisely these tasks. Distance sensors in the SmartForks AGVReady detect loads and interfering edges at an early stage when approaching the goods. This is crucial, as the AGV's safety-relevant environment monitoring must be temporarily switched off to pick up the load.
During load pick-up, ultrasonic sensors in the SmartForks reliably detect further obstacles. Other sensors and light scanners “see” obstacles at the end of the load carrier and identify broken boards or sagging loads in the pallet pockets. An occupancy sensor with entry depth measurement prevents piercing into downstream loads.
Once the goods have been picked up, an inductive load stop sensor monitors the load on the back of the forks with millimeter precision, while the load control indicates the position of the load on the forks. At the same time, the EasySecure sensor detects whether the load has been picked up correctly and whether the load moves during transportation or even slips off the forks. The latter can be reliably prevented by anti-slip and anti-noise coatings without impairing the functionality of the sensor system.
Automated guided vehicles cannot autonomously assess if the goods to be picked up exceed their load capacity. The tilt sensor therefore detects the bending of the fork tip under load. A sensor for monitoring the load moment to prevent the AGV from tipping in this situation will be available soon.
All-round carefree package for individual requirements
VETTER offers customized solutions with a comprehensive project management that includes free workshops to develop tailor-made sensor concepts. From the initial idea and design through to functional tests and installation service, a team of fork experts will support customers.
The results are ready-to-install solutions with pre-set sensor parameters including functional tests. Furthermore, mechanical processing by VETTER enables optimized installation of the sensor technology, including standardized communication interfaces such as I/O-Link and CANopen.
All of this allows AGVs to safely detect, pick up and transport loads, making them a reliable partner for people in intralogistics.
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SmartFork® AGVready
