Automated Guided Vehicles Video Transcript

Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) are a computer-guided, wireless,

battery-operated vehicle that is used to move materials in a building
without an onboard driver. In our buildings, they can be utilized to transport
palletized totes and cases, cages, carts, packages, and other non-conveyable
items.

How do the AGVs navigate safely through our Fulfillment Centers?

• AGVs navigate using lasers, magnetic tape, or vision-based
navigation systems. The AGV route is mapped manually by a
trained operator. Once the route is mapped, the AGV continues to
operate on the route and will stop automatically if it deviates from
its designated path.
• AGVs are equipped with proximity laser scanners for collision
protection. The scanners are programmed to detect objects in the
path of the AGV. A scanning laser sweeps in front of the AGV and
will slow or stop the vehicle if it detects objects above the ground
within its path.
• AGVs provide audible and/or visual indications to help you
understand what actions it’ll perform next. These indications may
include horns, buzzers, music, flashing or steady lights, or turn
signals. Audible and/or visual indications will activate prior to
starting motion. These indications may also activate when the AGV
is preparing to cross a green mile, turning, getting ready to stop or
speed up. Different AGVs emit different signals, so ensure that
you’re familiar with the audible and visual indications provided on
the AGV being used at your facility.

Let’s take a closer look at the scanning technology used on AGVs.

The scanners use two different sensing fields to ensure the AGV does not
make contact with obstacles within its path. The size of these fields vary
based on the AGV’s speed and stopping distance.
 • The long range sensing field functions as a warning. When an
object is detected in the warning field, the AGV slows down so it
can stop if needed.
• The shorter sensing field will stop the AGV immediately if an object
is detected.
Note that the safety laser scanner is NOT operational when the vehicle is in
manual mode.

AGVs vary by FC. Here are some standard movements to be aware of.
• They can travel at speeds up to 5 miles per hour
• For maximum safety, they slow down as they turn
• AVGs stop when an object is detected in the Stop Field, but will
resume after the object has been removed
• They’ll sound an audible signal, such as a horn, before beginning or
resuming automatic travel, near walkways and busy areas, and at
turns
• AGVs stop or drop off loads at their designated locations

Now let’s take a look into the Operational Safety Rules when working
alongside AGVs.
• Always be aware of the AGV path and do not stop or linger within
the path. The path will be marked by orange and black tape
• AGVs will slow down to 2 miles per hour (3.2kilometers per hour) at
pedestrian crossings but will not stop. AGVs have the right of way,
therefore pedestrians need to allow the AGV to pass before
crossing the pedestrian pathway. Do not try to follow the AGV or
beat it within its path
• Pay attention when the AGV is turning in order to stay out of its
path, and don’t place any objects within the path
• Never stand in between the AGV and the cart or between the carts
• Unless an alternate distance is marked on the AGV, maintain 8 feet
of clearance between yourself and a moving AGV
• Never ride or let another person ride on the AGV and only operate
it if you’ve been properly trained
• Place pallets straight and completely inside racks to prevent a
passing AGV from contacting a misaligned or overhang pallet
It’s important for you to be able to identify the different types of Operating
Areas for AGVs.
• AGV Paths: These are dedicated paths for AGV travel marked by
Orange-Black tape on the floor.
• A Hazard Zone is an area that doesn't have adequate clearance but
still offers a pedestrian escape route. An example of this is where
the AGV path comes close to fixed objects like conveyors or
columns. These areas are clearly marked with yellow and black tape
and required the AGV to operate at a reduced speed. Never dwell in
these areas for extended periods of time or work without
safeguards in place.
• Restricted Areas have no escape route for a pedestrian with either
inadequate clearance or without object detection. They also include
areas which the guide path is installed and from which
unauthorized personnel are prohibited. An example of this is when
the AGV travels through a very narrow aisle or VNA. These require
location specific protective measures and training along with clear
identification markings, possible speed reduction and audible
warning. Never enter restricted areas unless you are trained and
authorized.

Automated Guided Vehicles help us complete tasks more productively

and efficiently. It’s important that we understand how they navigate,
emit signals, and function within Operating Areas in order to work safely
alongside them.