How can a complete interlinking be achieved in automated metalworking, which also includes the loading and unloading stations? Liebherr Verzahntechnik's "Automation Systems" division provides the answer to this question: with a customized automated guided vehicle system (AGV). Such a system has been developed by dpm.

A lithium battery, which is charged fully automatically via ground contacts, provides the energy supply for the automated guided vehicle (AGV). A camera is used for lane guidance and a Siemens PLC is used for control. The vehicles can send error messages and commands to a control system via WLAN. Stopping points are determined using DMC markers, transponders or virtual tags.

The AGV is line-mobile. This means that it can drive straight ahead and backwards as well as turn around its central axis, for example to enter confined access areas of production systems. Two diagonally installed personal protection scanners detect possible obstacles around the vehicle, which can emit warning signals via flashing lights or a signal tone during operation.

The new AGV for integrated and fully automated production is available in two versions: with and without an eccentric lifting device of 100 millimetres. The compact dimensions of 1,060 x 840 x 500 millimetres create the conditions for a wide range of applications. The drive power is 800 watts and the maximum payload is 700 kilograms. The AGV travels at a speed of up to 90 meters per minute with a positioning accuracy of plus/minus five millimeters.

The AGV is combined here with the "bin picking" system developed by Liebherr, in which a robot reaches into a transport box. This means that the parts to be processed can be provided in a bin (on the AGV) without being sorted. The robot, which is controlled by 3D vision systems, picks the parts according to the production cycle and feeds them to the first station. Removal from the production system and storage on the AGV - for example in baskets or blisters - for onward transportation to other production areas is also carried out according to this principle.

From Liebherr Automationssysteme's point of view, the use of AGVs creates the conditions for the design of innovative production systems that can be flexibly adapted to new requirements in terms of production capacity and sequence. According to Liebherr, this opens up new possibilities for networking machines and systems. as