Simulation of a Production Line with Automated Guided Vehicle: A Case Study

Abstract

Currently, companies have increasingly needed to improve and develop their processes to flexible the production in order to reduce waiting times and increase productivity through smaller time intervals. To achieve these objectives, efficient and automated transport and handling material systems are required. Therefore, the AGV systems (Automated Guided Vehicle) are often used to optimize the flow of materials within the production systems. In this paper, the authors evaluate the usage of an AGV system in an industrial environment and analyze the advantages and disadvantages of the project. Furthermore, the author uses the simulation software Promodel ® 7.0 to develop a model, based on data collected from real production system, in order to analyze and optimize the use of AGVs. Throughout this paper, problems are identified as well as solution adopted by the authors and the results obtained from the simulations.

Path Planning and Trajectory Tracking for Automatic Guided Vehicles

“…Leite et al evaluated the use of an AGV system in an industrial setting and analyzed the pros and cons of the project. He collected data based on actual production systems to develop models and analyze and optimize AGV applications [ 1 ]. Yan et al studied and evaluated the ability of AGV reliability problem.…”

Sustainable supply chain management in the digitalisation era: The impact of Automated Guided Vehicles

“…Determination of efficiency criteria from an economic sustainability aspect is also a common referenced decision variable in the literature. Indicatively, Leite et al (2015) identify the increase in efficiency using simulation and real data for the toothpaste industry. In addition, Reina et al (2015) present recent trends in agriculture that regard cooperation amongst vehicles that improve efficiency whereas Shukla and Karki (2016) state the increase in productivity with the simultaneous cost efficiency improvement with the use of remotely operated vehicles (ground and underwater vehicles).…”

“…In addition, the authors discuss the advantages and disadvantages of planning a port container terminal automation system, while emphasizing on the resulting social sustainability ramifications. Leite et al (2015) examined different simulation scenarios for the toothpaste industry in Brazil and they support that the use of AGVs increases efficiency and minimizes hazards and accidents by reducing human errors. The authors suggest simulation as an effective decision-making tool for improving manufacturing processes and guarantying quality and agility in production.…”

“…Determination of maintenance operations and relates costs Duffy et al (2003); Negahban and Smith (2014) Determination of sensor types and relevant costs Franke and Lütteke (2012); Krüger et al (2009);Leite et al (2015); Reina et al (2015); Shukla and Karki (2016)…”

“…Identification of opportunities for sensors' applicability to improve workforce safety Gázquez et al (2016); Reina et al (2015); Shukla and Karki (2016) Adoption of tools for monitoring and assessing potential hazards Duffy et al (2003); Gómez et al (2015) Operational Ensuring social efficient performance Awuah-Offei (2016); Duffy et al (2003); Krüger et al (2009); Leite et al (2015); Reina et al (2015)…”