Driverless transport vehicles have become indispensable in many warehouses, distribution centers and production facilities. However, they usually drive rigidly and inflexibly along line markings attached to the floor, and their limited maneuverability means that they require a lot of space and long positioning cycles. Selective approach to production stations or automatic route changes are not possible.

Transport vehicles with omnidirectional movement capability, on the other hand, can perform precise maneuvers even in very confined spaces. The infinite steering angle allows the vehicle to move in a space-saving manner - even when stationary. This maneuverability is particularly important for fine positioning on the machine and at material transfer stations.

Driving-steering system for surface mobility

The ArgoDrive drive and steering system from ebm-papst is a new drive solution for driverless transport vehicles with surface mobility. It is a unit consisting of motors, a special gearbox, sensors and all the necessary connections. Its two motors contribute to steering, accelerating, driving or braking, depending on requirements. Just two ArgoDrives at opposite corners of a driverless transport vehicle guarantee full omnidirectionality, while two additional freely movable support wheels ensure stability. Depending on requirements, any number of drive systems can be installed.

The ArgoDrive can be used for heavy loads and on inclines. ebm-papst offers its drive-steering system in the Light, Standard and Heavy versions for weight classes up to 100, 300 and 500 kg respectively. With four drive-steering systems in the Heavy version, a total vehicle weight of up to two tons is possible.

Motors such as those in the ArgoDrive also act as sensors that detect a wide range of conditions. If the torque increases, for example, this can indicate wear on the wheel module. Thanks to GreenIntelligence and condition monitoring, the necessary replacement of the wheel module can be announced in good time before a failure occurs. The data recorded by the motor supports higher-level systems, thus generating added value. The ArgoDrive will be available from mid-2022 and samples can be ordered now