ADAM

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is an intelligent-Automated Guided Vehicle (i-AGV)?
2. How is open path navigation different from fixed path navigation?
3. What is mission-based dispatch? How is it different from regular AGV dispatch?
4. How does ADAM™ steer clear of obstacles?
5. Where can I get more information on ADAM or RMT?

1. What is an intelligent-Automated Guided Vehicle (i-AGV)?

   Intelligent-Automated Guided Vehicles (i-AGVs) are a recent advancement in the field of driverless transport devices commonly used for material handling applications in industrial environments. They apply state-of-the-art navigation and guidance technologies that, unlike traditional AGVs, allow true autonomy requiring no external guide-path networks or navigational markers (wires, mirrors or magnets) to assist in their movement around a facility. The approach provides a new level of flexibility in that an i-AGV can plot a path unique to its assigned task (ensuring the shortest possible route is taken), and can freely navigate around fixed and moving obstructions (typically found in today's highly dynamic manufacturing environments). In addition to being used for simple transport and delivery tasks, i-AGVs are being integrated as key elements of fully automated manufacturing work cells, providing autonomous robotic transport of WIP between related pieces of process equipment.

2. How is open path navigation different from fixed path navigation?

   "Fixed path navigation" commonly follows a guide wire or magnetic tape on the floor, using a pre-determined or "fixed" routing from point A to point B. Typically this is the same routing every time. Routing instructions usually come from a central computer and are downloaded, turn by turn to the AGV. If the AGV strays from the familiar paths marked with wires, transponders, etc., it becomes lost and disabled.

   "Open path navigation" ensures that any pathway to the destination is viable. There is no pre-determined routing from point A to B. Unlike fixed path navigation, open path navigation does not use wires, tape, or sensors. An "intended" route is calculated onboard by the AGV and remains dynamic during transport. That means the route can be changed and recalculated dynamically as required. ADAM’s use of open path navigation features laser scanners and gyroscopic motion sensors, while delivering high positioning accuracy.

3. What is mission-based dispatch? How is it different from regular AGV dispatch?

   Conventional dispatch

   Conventional systems download a routing package from central dispatch. This instructs the AGV, in incremental steps, on how to get from the point of origin to the point of destination. Most systems download routing instructions to the AGV on a milestone to milestone basis – the AGV seldom knows the final destination. Using a checkpoint feedback loop, AGV progress is reported back to the routing computer as milestones are achieved. As each milestone is completed, dispatch sends a new milestone destination to the AGV. In this manner, the AGV moves "stone by stone" to the destination.

   Mission-based dispatch

   In contrast, using mission-based dispatch, ADAM receives only the destination from central dispatch. There are no navigational instructions of any kind communicated in the initial download or while enroute. ADAM navigates to the destination independently to complete the mission, detecting obstacles and instantly generating an alternative shortest path to destination.

   Each ADAM is outfitted with wireless Ethernet communications for real-time connectivity to the central mission dispatcher, allowing one, two or an entire fleet of ADAMs to share mapping and routing information. ADAM receives instructions from the ADAM Management System computer (AMS™) or the Master Control System (MCS™) if there are more than five in the fleet.

4. How does ADAM steer clear of obstacles?

   ADAM’s laser measurement system for vehicle location and obstacle avoidance ensure ADAM can navigate around any obstructions – expected or unexpected.

5. Where can I get more information on ADAM or RMT?

   We’re delighted to provide further information by phone or email, or to set up a face-to-face meeting. Please contact us.