ZENIT

 AGV, short for Automated Guided Vehicle, refers to a robotic cart equipped with electromagnetic or optical automatic navigation devices. It is capable of traveling along designated navigation paths and possesses safety protection as well as various carrying functions. It is one of the key equipment in automated logistics systems. With the widespread application of logistics technology, AGVs have become important tools for agile material handling in workshop logistics systems due to their flexibility, efficiency, and adaptability.

▸ In normal operating conditions, the AGV cart relies on magnetic navigation sensors to scan magnetic track signals for navigation. During its operation, it encounters various scenarios that require different actions. Therefore, corresponding reference points or functional landmarks (each landmark corresponding to one or multiple functions preset by the customer) are placed. Afterward, without any manual intervention, the sensors mounted on the cart scan the landmarks. The PLC then automatically executes actions such as load transfer, transportation, and left/right forks based on the corresponding preset landmark functions. The actions associated with landmarks can be changed at any time and can be configured according to different route plans. Multiple route planning options are available, and the configuration of landmark functions needs to be simple and quick, with the ability to directly select and call the corresponding route.

▸ To ensure that the cart can adapt to various unexpected situations, such as equipment maintenance, parameter adjustments, line debugging, and other special circumstances, the cart needs to support manual mode operation. It is required to have commonly used control buttons for straight-line movement, left/right forks, loading, and unloading. At the same time, there are corresponding mis-touch/collision prevention safety protections and hierarchical operation permissions for the use of manual mode.

▸ To prevent on-site operators from accidentally modifying certain important operating parameters, which could lead to abnormal cart operation, we need to require a password input to access specific parameter interfaces, as well as interfaces for landmark function settings and manual operation.

▸ By combining various landmark functions, a route plan, known as a route recipe, can be created. Yongju's touch screen display incorporates a recipe function that allows for the configuration of corresponding routes on the touch screen interface. Once configured, the touch screen sends the corresponding landmark function planning to the PLC. Additionally, the touch screen has the capability to directly import CSV files containing the operational rules of functional landmarks into the recipe table, enabling customers to customize the storage and download of functional landmarks and recipes. Through the use of recipes, there is no need for manual input and switching of landmark rules, and thousands of operational rules can be imported at once. This overall approach covers the operational needs of various scenarios, eliminating the need to manually set landmark functions for different handling schemes and achieving a versatile and effective planning outcome.

▸ In the event of special circumstances, the first step is to press and hold the stop button for a prolonged period. The stop button is designed with a hold-to-press function (requiring a press duration of 1 second to activate), preventing accidental activation by operators and ensuring the normal operation of the AGV cart. Subsequently, the operator needs to enter the corresponding password to access the manual control interface. From there, the cart's manual operation can be controlled based on the current control requirements, including the aforementioned control buttons (straight movement, left/right forks, loading, unloading). The HMI (Human-Machine Interface) features a rich built-in library of graphics, allowing for simple drag-and-drop configuration of buttons. Additionally, for operational safety, a button control restriction for obstacles has been implemented. When an obstacle is detected, the corresponding directional buttons will be disabled, preventing accidental collisions during manual operation of the AGV cart.

▸ To accommodate different levels of personnel controlling the AGV cart, the touch screen's security features can be utilized to assign user levels. The cart is preset with three user types upon leaving the factory: administrator, engineer, and operator. Corresponding interface levels are configured, and subsequently, users need to log in with an account that meets the required level to access specific functions (e.g., ordinary operators cannot access landmark settings interfaces or special application interfaces for manual operation). Additionally, special function buttons can be employed to increase the number of secure users or modify passwords for lower-level access. Furthermore, secure import and export functions are available, enhancing flexibility and convenience.

 “Multiple Handling Function Recipes”

The freedom to define landmarks facilitates diversified handling solutions. Compared to early manual material handling, this approach is not only more efficient but also helps reduce labor costs. With the ability to freely define landmarks, various handling scenarios can be easily accommodated, enabling flexible and customized solutions for different needs.

“Safe Screen Operation” 

The manual/automatic switch requires a long press to activate, preventing accidental activation by operators. Screen operations are divided into different levels, and users need to log in with an account that meets the required level to access specific functions. Additionally, users can assign their desired passwords through special function buttons, enhancing the security and customization of the operation process. This ensures that only authorized personnel can access and control critical functions, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access or misoperation.

     Users can easily configure, store, and download recipes based on their desired functional landmark rules, eliminating the cumbersome process of making modifications each time. In case of any issues during operation, the system can be switched to manual mode, facilitating manual intervention and troubleshooting. The graphical user interface features a hierarchical access control system, requiring users to log in with an account that meets the required level to access specific functions or screens. This prevents unauthorized personnel from modifying device parameters and potentially affecting the operation of the AGV cart.