Drive solution
AGVs in healthcare applications
Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) have long been used in logistics and production areas. Now they are conquering the healthcare sector. From transporting different materials such as hygiene products, laundry, meals and medication, or even transporting entire X-ray systems across departments in hospitals, AGVs can help to make processes more efficient and make better use of resources.
AGV manufacturers need differentiated drive systems for the various requirements. With the "ArgoDrive", fan and drive specialist ebm papst offers a compact and easy-to-integrate drive-steering system including wheel, which can move loads of 100 kg, 300 kg and 500 kg per drive axle in the Light, Standard and Heavy versions. In the maximum expansion stage with four drive-steering systems in the Heavy version, a load capacity of up to two tons is possible, which means that even X-ray systems weighing several tons, such as a computer tomograph, can be moved with ease.
Each drive unit consists of two motors, gearbox, sensors and all the necessary connectors. The two motors contribute to steering, accelerating, driving or braking, depending on requirements, thanks to the superimposed gearbox. The infinite steering angle allows the vehicle to move over a wide area - even when stationary. The use of two drive-steering systems, mounted diagonally on the left and right side of an AGV, already guarantees omnidirectional freedom of movement and tight maneuvering, e.g. when swerving. Two additional freely movable support wheels at the front and rear ensure the necessary load support and stability of the AGV.
An important aspect of automated guided vehicles in all areas of medical technology is reliable operation and safety. The drive units are therefore designed for reliability throughout their entire service life. If the wheel tread becomes worn after a long period of operation, it is possible to simply "change the tire" without removing the drive unit. The smooth wheel surfaces are easy to clean or disinfect. In terms of safety, the AGV must be able to initiate emergency braking immediately if protective fields in front of the vehicle are breached. Appropriate safety sensors ensure continuous scanning of the surroundings. In the event of a protective field violation, the drive system must reliably execute a safe stop command from the safety control system. The ArgoDrive supports all typical and necessary safety requirements.
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