Dematic, a global supplier of integrated automated technology, software and services to optimize the supply chain, announces the operational launch of an Automated Guided Vehicle System (AGVS) for a major consumer goods company. The newly installed system operates in a production environment and automates intra-plant pallet movement.

The Dematic AGV system reduces cycle times, maximizes operational flexibility and minimizes operating costs. A fleet of 10 automatic guided vehicles transport pallet loads of raw materials to storage or directly to production. Pallet movement from storage to production is also accomplished with the new AGVS. The system employs an “opportunity” battery charging system so the AGVs can operate continuously without human intervention, on a 24 hour/7 days/week schedule.

“The AGVs run autonomously in a high volume production environment that depends on controlled, systematic flow of materials,” says Nathan Wolf, Director Mobile Automation for Dematic North America. “The fleet management and on-board AGV software ensures consistent delivery and pickup of pallets at mixing stations, storage rack, floor stations and the storage system.”

The Dematic automatic guided vehicles implemented in this operation are the first fleet of AGV’s to accommodate the new Underwriters Laboratories (UL) 3100 AGV safety standard rating. This standard was developed by Dematic in conjunction with UL’s Standards Technical Panel. It ensures that AGV batteries, chargers and onboard load are protected against electric shock and fire. In addition, the AGVs have full performance level D safety, the highest level of AGV safety performance.