Design of a System for Verification of Automatic Guided Vehicle Routes Using Computer Emulation

Abstract

A frequent change in the manufacturing program caused by a change in customer requirements requires a logistics system in the company that can respond flexibly to these changes. In order for business logistics to respond flexibly and optimally to the tasks created, a tool is needed to verify the functionality of the entire process. This article, at its core, deals with the use of emulation in a mixed environment of the real and virtual worlds as a tool for optimising automatic guided vehicle (AGV) routes. The main objective of the article is the design of a system that allows verification of AGV routes using computer emulation. The solution was created and programmed in the Tecnomatix Plant Simulation program, in cooperation with AGV logistics supply tractors, and tested on a logistic test circuit. The results show that the main area of application of such a solution is mainly in the area of the capacity utilisation of the AGVs that are used in internal logistics processes. This solution helps to cut down on the time it takes to design and optimise logistics operations as well as on the time it takes to test logistics systems at full capacity before commencing production.