Fori recently provided two custom designed, high capacity Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) for a large Aerospace OEM. The AGVs were utilized for component material handling and assembly.
Over the past decade, there has been a strong push in the Aerospace industry to increase Automation. Main drivers for this initiative include decreased crane utilization, process control, improved safety and reduction in product damage and waste.
The AGVs supplied required a customized frame design in order to mimic the footprint of the transported tooling. The project team had specific requirements on the length, width and height of the vehicle, as well as deflection requirements for the AGV frame while transporting the part and tooling. These requirements required a substantial engineering effort through the utilization of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to ensure the final design would meet all the design requirements.
Fori Aerospace Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) for Aircraft Component Assembly
Fori AGVs are Siemens safety PLC based, providing an open controls architecture, eliminating the "black box" provided by many material handling suppliers. The AGV system is outfitted with the latest and greatest safety devices available. The AGVs provided include perimeter safety bumpers and 360º SICK safety scanner coverage to ensure collision avoidance.
Responsibilities of the AGVs include:
Lift & Transport up to 90,000 lbs.
Minimize tooling & part deflection
Accurate and repeatable tool placement
Fully automated order scheduling & completion
Utilization of AGVs has resulted in decreased reliance on overhead cranes, providing a reduction in product damage and an increase in system efficiency and most importantly safety.
For more information on Fori AGVs, please visit our website.
