Automatic Guided Carts
Automatic guided carts play a significant role in intraplant material transportation solutions, as they are flexible and less expensive than conventional AGV's. Their smaller size also means that they are more versatile. These carts can complete assembly line tasks and are used to tow or carry small parts as well as heavy pallets. The carrying capacity of these vehicles may vary among manufacturers and models, but most are capable of carrying up to 2000 lbs and are often able to tow heavier loads than can be carried. Different forms of navigation, such as lasers and virtual vision, are also used for different models, but the most common for these smaller automated vehicles is magnetic tape and markers.
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Applications of Automatic Guided Carts
Cart systems are a great alternative to conveyors and forklifts, as they are cleaner, quieter, and more easily modified. The carts can easily maneuver within the space instead of the space having to be designed around a conveyor system. Durability, reliability, effectiveness, and precision are qualities that make carts ideal for various needs in material handling. There is also more adaptability with these vehicles. Not only do they provide a fast and safe stream of product to and from selected areas, but they can be used in non-production jobs as well, such as warehouse organization. Some industries that benefit from employing automatic guided carts include automotive, chemical, pharmaceutical, manufacturing, food and beverage, and paper and print companies.
Benefits of Using Automatic Guided Carts
One of the biggest benefits of purchasing this kind of automation equipment is that it pays for itself quickly by reducing overhead labor as carts improve the flow of materials as well as the presentation of materials to operators. And because of their flexibility, the inclusion of cart systems in industries like these contributes to continual improvement initiatives. Systems can be installed in as little as a few hours, and modifications can be made to the AGC guidepath quickly to improve efficiency as processes evolve. More automatic guided carts can also be purchased and integrated into existing systems as production grows and handling needs increase. Companies that utilize self guided carts not only see a rise in productivity and a reduction of cost, there is also a significant improvement when it comes to safety, as preventative measures are programmed into the carts. This means accidents and subsequent damages that occur with older, manual methods are substantially reduced with the implementation of this kind of automation.