Forklift AGV

Transportation of Raw Materials
AGVs are often used in the movement of raw materials such as metal, chemicals, plastic or paper within industrial settings. Replacing conveyors, they can facilitate the seamless transfer of these materials from receiving docks to storage areas or directly to production lines. This capability ensures a consistent and reliable supply of raw materials to production areas, eliminating delays and enhancing efficiency.

Work-in-Process (WIP) Applications
In manufacturing environments, AGVs are used in the movement of partially completed goods through different stages of production. They transport materials or components from storage to production lines or between workstations, optimizing the flow of goods through the manufacturing process. This continuous movement is vital for maintaining a smooth and uninterrupted production process, thereby increasing productivity and reducing the likelihood of production stoppages.

Handling Finished Goods
Upon completion of the manufacturing process, AGVs are used to transport finished goods from the production line to storage or shipping areas. This automated handling minimizes the risk of damage to finished products and ensures timely delivery to storage or shipping docks, preparing them for distribution.

Inbound and Outbound Handling
AGVs are in some cases used to manage warehouse operations, including the replenishment of stock and picking processes. They can transport goods from receiving areas to storage locations or from long-term storage to forward picking areas, taking the function as an automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS). Although conveyors are more common, AGVs can be integrated with AutoStore (see below) to transport fulfilled orders to packaging and shipping areas. Conveyors are less flexible once installed, hence some warehouse operators will choose mobile robots such as AGVs.

Automated Storage and Retrieval: Collaborative Mobile Robots in Picking
In addition to traditional AGVs, collaborative mobile robots (a subset of AGVs) can be used in warehouses to assist in picking operations. These robots work alongside human workers, guiding them through picking tasks and transporting picked orders to packaging and shipping areas. The downside to this, is that AGVs require more space than other automated systems for picking, and the fact that they rely on dust-sensitive sensors for operating properly. Overall reliability for picking operations therefore tends to be lower than other systems as they require strictly controlled surroundings and operate in an environment highly exposed to dust, (the warehouse floor).