The Creform Tite-Space BST AGV Tugger is a material handling solution for installations with tight turns and narrow aisles.
An international building hardware manufacturer was searching for a solution to its material delivery capabilities at one of its plants. The problem was, unlike its other location, this facility had narrow aisles with tight turns. The manufacturer already was a Creform customer, so they looked to Creform's engineers to provide a solution. That solution was a Creform Tite-Space BST AGV Tugger. Creform demonstrated the unit to the company prior to the sale.
The Tite-Space BST AGV Tugger is especially suited for delivering to line-side assembly points when space is at a premium. With a minimum turning radius of 15.7 in. (400 mm) it slips into tight spots and leaves just as easily.
The initial project called for a single Creform AGV but once it was evaluated the manufacturer planned to add three other units.
"Like all Creform BST AGVs the Tite-Space features a low-profile, sleek design consisting of a drive motor, 24 volt DC system powered by 2-12 volt AGM batteries and guidance sensors. It travels in a single direction along an easily installed magnetic tape guide path at speeds of 13-164 ft./min. (4-50 m/min.)," said a company spokesperson.
The AGV unit will stay connected to the primary cart except for battery changes or when the AGV is removed for maintenance. The primary cart, with a convenient push/pull handle for manual maneuvering, features a small load deck for box handling as well as a rear-mounted towing hitch so that a second cart can be towed behind. For this manufacturer the AGV will typically be towing two carts at a time.
The Creform Tite-Space BST AGV Tugger will be in operation for two shifts, five to six days per week. The unit runs along a 500 ft. long guide path, with a route that features 11 stops. The unit stops automatically and restarts after a set period of time.
"A major advantage of the Tite-Space unit, like all Creform BST AGVs, is its ability to mobilize multiple carts with a single drive unit, making it an economical alternative to other delivery methods. For larger operations, a series of BST drive units can power an entire fleet of carts. Typically BST units tunnel under carts and connect with the lead cart by raising its tow pin automatically or manually," said a company spokesperson.
The Tite-Space unit has a maximum towed weight/draw bar of 1,320 lb. (600 kg) / 57 lb. (26 kg). For safety it has electromagnetic braking, audible warning and flashing light, obstacle sensor, bumper switch and e-stop. It also has a battery tray cart for easy battery changing. Command tapes initiate AGV functions such as speed changes, route selection and extend/retract tow pin, but control options include PLC, RF, RFID and optical communicator.
Creform provides with its AGV products, service and support programming, plus cart/structure designs and kitting or assembly assistance along with route layout installation if required. Optional equipment includes battery upgrade for longer run time, opportunity charging system, radio communications to integrate into a Creform traffic control system and preventative maintenance program.
The Creform System is used to create an array of material handling and efficiency enhancing devices and can be a component in continuous improvement and Lean Manufacturing programs. The company partners with customers in developing and implementing these programs.
For more information contact:
Creform Corporation
P.O. Box 830
Greer, SC 29652-0830
800-839-8823
SCsales@creform.com
www.creform.com