Creform's two-ton Super NSI AGV model, the CA-Z40200-NSI.
Creform has introduced the two-ton Super NSI AGV model, CA-Z40200-NSI, the company's highest capacity tunneling tugger AGV. The particular model shown was initially designed and built for an existing automotive manufacturing customer. The AGV transports a steel dolly carrying an engine through the front suspension assembly process along a peel and stick magnetic tape guidepath. The completed engine and front suspension is delivered to the main line for installation in the vehicle. While not utilized in this application, the Super NSI has auto-reversing and 180° pivot-turn capabilities, which is seful in space restrictive applications.
The AGV provides for a 50-course programming capability and HMI touchscreen, RFID readers installed adjacent to the guidepath and 5 Ghz wireless radio for traffic control. Creform provided the customer with a custom wireless monitoring/traffic control system that integrates the new Super NSI AGV, allowing for user friendly traffic control and communication to an upper level monitoring system. The wireless system monitors each unit and controls AGV traffic and allows for flexible production control.
The unit meets safety category 3 requirements, comes with a laser scanner for obstacle detection, flashing light and audible warning to alert nearby associates. The unit has a maximum speed of 40 m/min. It features a powered hitch that allows for automatic coupling and uncoupling. A pin raises to engage the cart and lowers to disengage the cart.
The Creform system comes with a 24-volt system, powered by two 100AH 12v AGM batteries. An opportunity-charging system eliminates the need for an associate to change batteries and to take the time to service the batteries consistently. With each circuit of the guidepath, batteries are automatically charged by just pulling into a charging station positioned along the route. No human intervention is necessary.
Automatic charging is part of the normal AGV course program. The vehicle pulls into charging position, and lowers the charging probes to contact the conductor plates embedded in the floor. A smart charger evaluates the battery's condition and then turns on the charger for a quick battery boost. If an especially low battery condition is detected, the system has a loop where an AGV can pull off and have extra time for the batteries to be topped off.
"The Creform System is used to create an array of material handling and efficiency enhancing devices and is a proven component in Continuous Improvement and Lean Manufacturing programs," said a company spokesperson. 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