Automated Guided Vehicle

First invented

1953

First a modified tractor used to pull a trailer following an overhead wire.

Gaining Popularity

1959

During the late 1950s and early 1960s the AGV were being used in many warehouses and factories

Volvo

1973

Volvo in Kalmar, Sweden wanted to develop a non-synchronous assembly equipment which would be an alternative to the traditional convener system. This led to the development of the 280 computer controlled assembly AGV

First Unit Load

1975

This was the MAJOR CHANGE to the AGVs. The first Unit Load was able to complete many tasks because it was equipped with a work platform, a transportation device, and even linked to the information system.

"Smart Floor"

1979

During the late 1970s the idea of using an electrical current to guide the vehicle was introduced. The current would be built into the floor which would lead the vehicle, hence "smart floor" Later improvements were made to make it easier to install and less sophisticated

Non- Wire Guidance

1989

Even more improvements were made such as eliminating the need for wires at all. They decided to use lasers to make guidance of the vehicle even better

Today

2017

In the recent years there have been several technological advancements. AGV have also benefited from them. They have become smarter and are able to complete jobs just as well as humans are. They have become the reliable part of the manufacturing process.

Future

2805

If all goes right we should have the epitome of AGV in the future. One who can operate and live on the planet all by themselves without humans