The Planning Of AGV Material Handling System In An Automobile Body Shop

With the increasing cost of labor force and the development and application of AGV,a greater number of auto manufacturers are considering to apply AGV technology to the automation of raw material transportation to reduce cost and raise technology level when planning logistic systems.The selection of the part list for AGV system and AGV quantity configuration are the two main issues in logistics planning phase for AGV program.Considering the manufacturing process and layout of the workshop was already identified,the selection of AGV part list is strongly related with AGV operation mode,route path design,material handling efficiency improvement target and budget requirement.A reasonable selection of AGV part list will contribute to increase material handling efficiency and decrease AGV control system complexity,which is beneficial to the workshop on floor traffic safety management.According to company's existed AGV program summary,the investment of AGV contributes 60% of the total cost,therefore,a reasonable number for AGV requirement is key point to control the economy of the program,and an important factor for smooth running of the program after implementation also.This paper focuses on the planning and implementation of AGV material handling system in S-company new plant body shop.Combining the practical experience with related material handling system theory,we set up a method for the selection of parts applied for AGV material handling system.Moreover,we propose two different approaches for fast and simplified calculation of the number of AGV in early planning stage and validate them with simulation models and actual implementation results of the project.At last,we summarize the project results and point out research direction and offer advice for the company's future projects.