Smart and flexible manufacturing systems using Autonomous Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and the Internet of Things (IoT)

Abstract

Technologies such as Autonomous Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and the Internet of Things (IoT) increasingly disrupt traditional manufacturing and production systems. However, there is a scarcity of empirical studies synthesising and evaluating the impact of disruptive technologies on existing manufacturing systems. This study examines the impact of AGVs applying IoT on Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS) through a case study demonstrating the integration of AGVs with IoT in a manufacturing company. As a concept, FMS was conceived decades ago; this study uses socio-technical systems theory to elaborate the concept of FMS into the current context. Key themes uncovered from the literature review include (i) AGVs in warehouse systems, (ii) AGV scheduling and routing, (iii) Human-machine interface, and (iv) integrating and controlling AGVs/IoT. The case study demonstrates how AGVs can create smart, flexible manufacturing systems by taking the following steps: (a) problem identification, (b) performance measurement, (c) designing the proposed solution, (d) evaluate IoT systems, (e) implementation of the new solution, and (f) future improvements. The study concludes with specific recommendations to implement Industry 4.0 in manufacturing companies.

Smart Material Handling Solutions for City Logistics Systems

“…The mobility of smart AGVs is possible with the support of CGPS and RFID technology. CGPS technology enables the management of MH equipment in warehouses (this technology provides data on the position of MH equipment in real-time) [93,94]. Moreover, RFID tags are used to indicate the appropriate location where the next warehouse assignment should be accepted.…”

“…The SAGV forklift communicates with the control system via a Wi-Fi network that connects all RFID and IIoT sensors [79][80][81]. SAGV forklifts have safety scanners that operate based on AR, which prevent them from encountering barriers such as employees, equipment, goods, etc., thus providing high-level work safety [88,[91][92][93][94][95]. CWMS is necessary for the communication of all connected entities (MH and other equipment, goods, etc.)…”

“…The processed data from AI technology in integration with DSS is used as input data for determining the optimal route, the order of performing warehouse assignments, storage and retrieval strategies, etc. Considering the foregoing, SAGV forklifts have the imperative to become one of the main automation technologies in logistics centers oriented toward improving customer service in the city [90,91,94].…”

“…The advantages of SAGV forklifts are their high positioning accuracy, significant lifting height and functionality in narrow corridors, resulting in increased utilization of storage area by 30-40% compared to traditional electric forklifts and in the increased efficiency of customer service [91][92][93][94]. The social sustainability of SAGVs is mainly related to the humanization of MH.…”

“…Some of the key disadvantages are relatively high investment costs, increased maintenance costs, additional employee training requirements, etc. [92][93][94].…”