AGV unmanned forklifts, also known as automated guided vehicles, are intelligent logistics equipment integrating multiple functions such as automatic navigation, material handling, positioning, and obstacle avoidance.
Their working principle is mainly based on advanced navigation technology, sensor technology, control systems, and mechanical actuators, working together to achieve unmanned and automated material handling operations. First, the navigation system of the AGV is its core component, determining the forklift's travel path and positioning accuracy. Common navigation methods include laser navigation, electromagnetic navigation, visual navigation, and inertial navigation. Laser navigation uses a laser scanner to emit a laser beam and receive the reflected signal, calculating the forklift's relative position to surrounding objects to achieve precise positioning and navigation.
Electromagnetic navigation involves laying electromagnetic wires on the ground, allowing the forklift to follow a preset path by sensing electromagnetic signals. Visual navigation uses cameras to capture environmental images and image processing algorithms to identify paths and obstacles. Inertial navigation calculates the forklift's position and attitude by measuring its acceleration and angular velocity. Secondly, AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) forklifts are equipped with various sensors, such as ultrasonic sensors, infrared sensors, and collision sensors, to perceive the surrounding environment in real time, detect obstacles, and ensure the safety of the forklift during operation. These sensors transmit the collected data to the control system, which analyzes and processes the data according to preset algorithms and rules, making corresponding decisions such as adjusting the speed, changing the direction, or stopping. Furthermore, the control system of the AGV is its "brain," responsible for receiving data from the navigation system and sensors, processing it comprehensively, and issuing control commands to the mechanical actuators. The mechanical actuators include drive motors, steering mechanisms, and lifting mechanisms, which, according to the instructions of the control system, realize the forklift's driving, steering, and fork lifting actions. In the specific workflow, the AGV first determines the target location and driving path through the navigation system, then starts the drive motor and travels along the preset path.
During operation, sensors monitor the surrounding environment in real time. Once an obstacle or abnormal situation is detected, a signal is immediately transmitted to the control system, which makes corresponding adjustments to ensure the safe operation of the forklift. When the forklift reaches the target location, the control system controls the fork lifting mechanism to perform loading and unloading operations. The working principle of AGV unmanned forklifts embodies the characteristics of automation, intelligence and high efficiency. It can not only significantly improve the efficiency and accuracy of logistics operations, but also reduce labor costs, reduce human error and accident risks, and is one of the important pieces of equipment in the field of modern logistics warehousing.