Features/Benefits Provided: Less product damage due to handling Reduced labor costs and increased safety Streamlined production operation Flexible solution for plant's changing production demands No plant interruptions during installation

Ten (10) unit load Self Guided Vehicles (SGVs) transfer four (4) refrigerators each at a time between three pick stands and three drop automated conveyor stands as links in all three production lines. The refrigerator manufacturer operates three 8-hour shifts, 7 days per week. The SGV system uses discrete remote I/O panels to monitor the status of the pickup and drop off conveyors.

The pickup conveyor has sensors to detect when four (4) loads are ready for transfer. The SGV Manager host software generates an order for an SGV when the discrete input from the pickup conveyor is sensed. When the SGV arrives at the conveyor, it will request permission to enter using a discrete output. The conveyor controller then makes sure that it is safe for the SGV to interface with the stand, and sets a discrete input.

The SGV then enters the station, lifts the deck, and drives out with the 4 refrigerators on-board. The drop conveyor also has retro-reflective sensors to detect that the drop location is clear for additional loads to be transferred. When the SGV arrives, it requests permission to enter using a discrete output and waits for a response from the conveyor controller (via discrete input.) The SGV lifts the load, enters the drop conveyor stand, and lowers the deck, depositing the 4 refrigerators on the transfer conveyor.

The lead acid batteries are manually swapped out approximately once every 16 hours. SGVs are sequenced through the battery change area at a fixed time in order to maximize the labor efficiency of battery changes. The system also monitors the battery level and sends the SGV to the change area if the battery reaches a critical level.

 
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400 Highpoint Drive
Chalfont, PA 18914
Toll Free: 888-362-3628
Phone: 215-822-4300
Fax: 215-822-4533
Email: sgv.sales@fmcti.com   Website: www.fmcsgvs.com