A free-ranging automated guided vehicle incorporating navigation and radio communication for use in a fully automated flexible manufacturing system has been developed. A vehicle, operating as a complete subsystem, was built and tested in an integrated control environment and proved to have promising results. various radio communication techniques are examined and the design and testing of a low cost, wireless, two way communication link is detailed. A novel, flexible infrared navigation technique was developed and incorporated into the AGV subsystem. Path planning and a flexible real time path modification system was formulated using an innovative program with an interpolative visual display unit and digitiser. Data transfer to and from the vehicles in a real time integrated system is covered. System integration for an free-ranging automatic guided vehicle is discussed covering aspects of communication, mapping and navigation. Specific needs for a free-ranging automatic guided vehicle, are presented. The unique design features of navigation and mapping outlined in this thesis has resulted in a low cost, free-ranging, autonomous automatic guided vehicle. / Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of Natal, Durban, 1992.

Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) depend on sensor systems to guide and navigate in manufacturing environments. The sensor system must ensure the correct path is followed and monitor the vehicle’s progress as it proceeds through the environment to complete assigned tasks. An AGV therefore needs an efficient guidance and navigation system, based on sensor technology that allows it to navigate safely and accurately. A variable sensor system will provide an AGV with the ability to interchange guidance and navigation techniques as the parameters in the environment change in order to complete tasks. This will maintain material handling operations and guarantee production rates. The standardization of sensor based guidance and navigation systems for AGVs and other autonomous robots will optimize performance. The project involved research, design, construction, assembly and testing of a variable sensor system for guidance and navigation of AGVs. Sensor technology facilitated AGV operation in changing environments and avoidance of other robots and automated machines in an Agile manufacturing environment. Routing algorithms and procedures enabled safe movement and AGV task completion. The project required mechanical, electronic and software integration for AGV navigation and guidance. / Thesis (M.Sc.Eng.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2008.

No description available.

Thesis (M.S.)--Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 1992. / Vita. Abstract. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 99-101). Also available via the Internet.

Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of Sydney, 2002. / Title from title screen (viewed Apr. 24, 2008). Submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy to the Australian Centre for Field Robotics, Dept. of Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering, Faculty of Engineering. Degree awarded 2002; thesis submitted 2001. Includes bibliography. Also available in print form.

Report (M. Eng.)--Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 1994. / Abstract. Includes bibliographical references (leaf 85). Also available via the Internet.

Thesis (M.S.)--Rochester Institute of Technology, 2008. / Typescript. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 84-87).

Thesis (M.S.)--University of Texas at El Paso, 2009. / Title from title screen. Vita. CD-ROM. Includes bibliographical references. Also available online.

M. Ing. / This work describes the establishment of an intelligent control system on board an AGV for automatic adaptation to the motions and actions of industrial robots. The movements can represent an assembly sequence or material loading sequence. A relationship is established between the workspaces of the industrial robot and the AGV. The coordinate systems are integrated for the AGV to respond to the movements of the industrial robot in the correct way. The integration of these two different coordinate systems leads to the creation of a common workspace. Within this common workspace, the AGV interacts with the robot using the same reference points. The mathematical analysis and practical implementation of this transient workspace is described. The adaptive control presented allows for an intelligent decision making process to be performed on line with the use of an expert system.

<p>Automated Guided Vehicles (AGV) are becoming an increasingly popular system for performing materials handling functions in industry today. The design and implementation of an Automated Guided Vehicle System (AGVS) is a complex issue and involves many aspects. It is highly advisable to design and plan the system prior to its implementation. This project considers some of the key issues and parameters in the initial design phase of an AGVS for a company manufacturing anti lock braking systems for automobiles. The design of the AGVS is carried out using simulation-animation techniques. PROMODEL pc, a popular manufacturing simulator is used for developing the simulation models. Different AGVS alternatives are considered. A multi-attribute framework is used for developing and analyzing the AGVS alternatives. The recommended AGVS design alternative is chosen based on economic justification and satisfaction of the company's throughput requirements. / Master of Engineering