Robotics & Automation News

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agv

Sick launches AGV forklift safety solution

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Sick has developed the Safe AGV Forklift, a PLd/SIL2-certified safety solution that enables a driverless forklift to continue to operate productively when the forks are in the load-carrying position.

The Sick Safe AGV Forklift is claimed to solve ‘stop-start frustration’, which slows operation and leads to wear and tear of Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) fitting with a forklift: when the protective laser scanning fields are infringed because the forks are down, the AGV must be brought to a safe stop.

Designed specifically for AGV forklifts with a drive wheel, the device integrates two laser scanners providing protective fields in front and behind the vehicle, with a controller and an encoder to monitor the speed of the vehicle.

[Read more…] about Sick launches AGV forklift safety solution

Nidec-Shimpo launches new versions of its S-Cart automated guided vehicle

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Nidec-Shimpo has launched new versions of its automated guided vehicle, the S-Cart. (See video below.)

The company says it will begin shipping the new model of AGV – equipped with a “Follow-Me” function – as soon as possible.

Additionally, the company has also developed a separate new model equipped with a “Return-To-Home” function as well as a model designed to carry a maximum payload of 500 kg.  [Read more…] about Nidec-Shimpo launches new versions of its S-Cart automated guided vehicle

Automated guided vehicles: Exclusive interview with Kivnon commercial director

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Automated guided vehicles could completely change the industrial technology ecosystem, ushering in the era of cyber-physical operations and reducing the reliance on traditional fixed infrastructure, like monorails and conveyors

Kivnon is probably the world’s leading manufacturer of automated guided vehicles. 

Its AGVs are particularly popular in the automotive sector, utilised by a large number of leading automakers – including Volkswagen, Renault, Nissan, Daimler, Seat and others.

Kivnon AGVs are also to be found in industrial companies from other sectors, being used to transport material from one place to another in their facilities.  [Read more…] about Automated guided vehicles: Exclusive interview with Kivnon commercial director

Comau unveils logistics robot

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Comau has launched a new logistics robot which looks similar to the growing number of autonomous platforms currently making their way into warehouses the world over. 

Comau’s machine is called Agile 1500, and the company says it is the first model within the Comau automated guided vehicles platform.

Comau says the Agile 1500 is based on the company’s “open automation” design approach.  [Read more…] about Comau unveils logistics robot

EiraTech launches ‘one of the best performing’ warehouse robots in logistics

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EiraTech, a developer of robotics solutions for warehouses and e-fulfilment centres, has launched what it claims is “one of the best performing, most efficient and safest” robotic vehicles on the logistics market. 

EiraTech says its autonomous guided vehicle can “literally” find stuff and move stuff around – in the right order. It also sports a red button.  [Read more…] about EiraTech launches ‘one of the best performing’ warehouse robots in logistics