Automated electric multidirectional forklifts
The Phoenix from HUBTEX now available as an AGV

Depending on the requirements of the application, route guidance and positioning accuracy, HUBTEX offers different navigation methods. These methods can be used individually, but can also be combined if necessary. The standard method for fully automated electric multidirectional sideloaders in typical applications is object-based laser navigation (also known as natural navigation). Laser navigation uses the data from a 270° laser scanner mounted at an elevated vehicle position to create a virtual map of the surroundings. In addition, the data from the personal protection system can also be used for navigation.  The laser measurement, which is based on the structure of the building, is combined with the odometry of the vehicle. To optimize accuracy, passive reflectors can be installed in the warehouse.

When using AGVs, it is important that the vehicle always identifies the properties of the load. Once these properties are identified, routes, transfer situations and storage can be implemented reliably by the automated guided vehicles.
The safest way to do this is to use load carriers that are clearly defined in terms of length, width and height. If this is not possible, sensors are used as an alternative.

Typical areas of application for our sensors include load identification using barcode readers and load carrier detection using camera or laser sensors. Fork pocket detection for long goods pallets is also common. 

We also have various technologies available to ensure optimal fleet management. If the higher-level WMS system already issues driving tasks, the range of functions of the existing navigation systems is often sufficient. However, if "order management" and "job prioritization" are not currently available, we offer our own fleet management solution developed within the group of companies.
AGV fleet management includes route optimization, battery management, coordination, maintenance planning, safety and emergency measures. The aim is to use the HUBTEX AGVs efficiently, reduce costs and increase safety. The primary functions include:

• Fleet monitoring: The AGVs are monitored by a central control unit that records data on location, operating status, battery charge level and error messages. This allows the performance and efficiency of the fleet to be continuously monitored and improved.
• Route optimization: Fleet management uses intelligent algorithms to calculate the best routes for the AGVs based on factors such as distance, traffic conditions and priorities of the driving tasks. This ensures optimal use of the vehicles and a reduction in empty runs.
• Battery management: Since AGVs are electrically powered, battery management is crucial. Fleet management monitors battery charge levels and schedules battery charging or replacement to ensure vehicles are ready for use.
• AGV coordination: In some scenarios, multiple AGVs must work together to complete complex tasks. Fleet management synchronizes AGV activities to avoid collisions and efficiently manage material flow.
• Maintenance planning: Regular maintenance of AGVs is crucial to ensure smooth operation and long life. Fleet management plans and coordinates maintenance work to minimize downtime.
• Safety and emergency management: Fleet management implements safety protocols and emergency plans to manage potential hazardous situations, such as malfunctions, obstructions, or unexpected events.
   

The safety of AGVs is of crucial importance to us. Our automated guided vehicles ensure safety by using laser scanners to protect people and machines, collision prevention and emergency stop systems. The scanners are fitted with a warning field to reduce speed and a protective field to stop the vehicle. Automatic restart can take place without acknowledgement.

In addition, certain areas can be defined as "safe" or "unsafe" using safety zones. To define safety zones, we install additional safety technology at the entry areas to these zones. This gives us the option of allowing vehicles to drive at higher speeds within these zones. These concepts allow us to control the access of people and to create clear boundaries.

Choosing the right charging concept for an AGV is crucial. Often, the different concepts have a significant impact on the degree of automation, acquisition and operating costs. A precisely tailored energy concept has an impact on the number of AGVs required and thus directly on the overall costs.

Generally, we recommend the use of lithium-ion batteries and charging AGVs via high-performance charging contacts. The AGV positions itself exactly above the charging contact, which is usually attached to the vehicle floor, and establishes the contact. As a contactless charging option, we also offer an inductive battery charging station. For large fleets, we offer automatic battery changing stations.

The emergency operation of AGVs is crucial to ensure that the vehicles can continue to operate even under unforeseen circumstances such as malfunctions or emergencies. We offer various solutions:

As standard, all HUBTEX AGV multidirectional forklifts can be operated manually by remote control in emergency mode or service mode. Many customers would like to be able to control the AGVs manually even with a cabin for emergency operation or in rare cases where human intervention is required. This vehicle specification is, of course, possible in principle. However, the requirements are examined specifically in each project.