Efficient Navigation of Automated Guided Vehicles: New PGV Positioning Systems with TCP/IP or EtherCAT® Interface

Like all PGV read heads, the PGV*F213* consists of a camera system with an integrated lighting. The compact read head variant uses red light and tracks Data Matrix codes and tags on the floor. Users receive the codes either as self-adhesive code tape or—for highly demanding environments—on robust metal code bars.

The space-saving version of the PGV is now available with an integrated TCP/IP interface. While it was previously necessary to connect to a controller to configure the read head, users can now connect the PGV*F213* positioning system directly to a PC or even a single-board computer. This makes commissioning quick and easy while also eliminating the need for an additional cost-intensive controller for the navigation of the AGVs. In applications where many bots are used, this offers a decisive advantage in terms of cost-effectiveness.

In large warehouses, numerous AGVs and bots are often in use at the same time. To avoid collisions, the routes of the vehicles must be perfectly coordinated and reliably monitored in real time. This is the only way to ensure that the AGVs can move simultaneously and at full speed with just a few centimeters between them. The PGV*F213* uses a synchronization pulse and timestamp on 2-D images to enable high-precision synchronization between the control of the individual bots and the higher-level master control system.

The PGV*F200* is the ideal solution for users who want to navigate their AGVs not only with Data Matrix codes and tags, but also on colored tape or paint lines. The all-around solution in the PGV portfolio can flexibly read all available positioning targets—individually or in combination. For maximum flexibility, this PGV variant is available with a broad selection of integrated interfaces. These include CANopen, EtherNet/IP, PROFIBUS, PROFINET, and RS485. The PGV*F200* with integrated EtherCAT® interface is a new addition to the portfolio. Data is transmitted reliably and in real time from the PGV read head to the control system. In addition to the position values, the data also includes information about the current status of the Data Matrix code tape. The PGV*F200* with EtherCAT therefore stands for maximum process reliability.

• Positioning system with TCP/IP interface for the camera-based guidance of small bots and AGVs
• Compact read head with 35 mm design depth for confined installation situations
• Quick and easy configuration via (single-board) PC without higher-level control system

• All-around solution for all available positioning targets: Data Matrix codes and tags, colored tape and paint lines
• Broad selection of integrated interfaces for maximum flexibility
• EtherCAT interface allows real-time data transmission and maximum process reliablity