Photo courtesy Creform Corp.
Creform Corp. has designed and built a Made in the USA fleet of BST AGV Model CA-Z50060-K9 automated guided vehicles (AGVs). The AGVs have run-ready capabilities for immediate deployment. The Creform Tite Space AGVs are designed to streamline workflows through efficient automation.
A fleet of AGVs can manage sequenced parts carts, ensuring precise and efficient movement that helps significantly reduce operational bottlenecks. They can travel along a magnetic tape guidepath. Creform also offers another flexible guidance option – no-tape guidepath – for versatility in implementation. The unit can slip under a stationary cart, extending a tow pin into the cart’s frame and then conveying it to a designated workstation or unload point.
The units have the functionality of the larger Creform BST-NSI AGVs, but in a compact package for enhanced maneuverability. Each AGV is powered by a 24V system with two 12V AGM batteries and offers a sophisticated programmable control system and can control 50 courses with up to 128 commands for each. Course programming can be accomplished with a PC or HMI touchscreen and programs can be downloaded via USB memory, ethernet cable, or RF.
The units are equipped with an RFID reader for command initiation and an onboard RF communication device for traffic management, enhancing operational simplicity, both in tape and no-tape guidance. They operate at speeds of 4M/min. to 50M/min. (13fpm to 164fpm) and are capable of handling loads up to 1,320 lb (600kg) or 1,980 lb (900kg), catering to various operational and functional needs.
The units include robust safety mechanisms such as a music box, LED lights, 16-view obstacle sensor, non-contact laser bumper, emergency stop button, safety PLC, and CAT 3-rated safety devices, always ensuring safe operation.