The heavy-duty model BST undercarriage AGV tugger by Creform operates for a full 8-hour shift without a battery recharge or exchange.
As the sixth and newest model in the supplier’s AGV line, the unit moves loads weighing up to 2,000 pounds. The vehicle drives under a stationary cart positioned on the magnetic tape guidepath, extends a tow pin into the cart’s receiver catch, and moves it to a programmed destination. It then retracts the tow pin, leaving the cart for its intended purpose and moves on to service another cart. The AGV interfaces with multiple varieties of un-powered carts equipped with the proper receiver hitch.
Features include an extra large battery compartment and a battery charging system with retractable cords on wind-up reels, enabling charging to occur without removing the battery from the AGV. For safety, the vehicle has an obstacle sensor with seven sensing areas, a bumper with emergency stop, a warning/status light and audible warning melody box.
A Creform BST AGV works as an automated tugger, traveling along a magnetic tape guidepath, slipping under a stationary cart, extending a tow pin into the cart’s frame and then conveying it to a designated workstation or unload point. After disengaging from the cart, it travels to its next assignment. One BST AGV has the ability to mobilize multiple carts or a series of BSTs can manage an entire fleet.
The Creform NSI model offers the most sophisticated control system available in BST style AGVs and it s manufactured in the U.S.A. The NSI model is programmable and can control 50 courses with up to 128 commands for each. Course programming can be accomplished with PC or an HMI (Human Machine Interface) touchscreen located on the front of the unit. Programs can be downloaded via USB memory, Ethernet cable or RF (requires optional equipment). It’s available with an optional onboard RF communication device for traffic management, and just like all Creform BST units it responds to tape commands on the floor. For safety, the NSI model has all standard Creform safety devices plus a new laser scanner that has emergency stop, temp stop and temp slow settings in 16 view sets.
