PRODUCT DETAILS

RGV (Rail Guided Vehicle): The High-Speed Backbone of Automated Logistics

An RGV (Rail Guided Vehicle) is an automated material handling shuttle that travels along a fixed, pre-installed track. Unlike free-roaming robots, an RGV is a "constrained" system, meaning it follows a physical rail—much like a high-speed train for cargo. Because of this mechanical guidance, RGVs are the preferred choice for facilities that require extreme speed, heavy load capacity, and 100% predictable movement.

1. How RGV Systems Work

RGV systems consist of three main components: the shuttle vehicle, the rail track (floor-mounted or overhead), and the control system (PLC/WCS).

Movement: The vehicle uses high-performance motors to shuttle back and forth on steel or aluminum rails.

Communication: It receives instructions via wireless signals or infrared communication from a central Warehouse Control System (WCS).

Configurations:

Linear Reciprocating Type: A single shuttle moving back and forth on a straight track between two or more points.

Circular Loop Type: Multiple shuttles moving in a continuous loop, allowing for much higher throughput as vehicles follow one another without collision.

2. Key Technical Features

Incredible Speed: RGVs can reach speeds of up to 200 meters per minute, significantly faster than most AGVs or traditional conveyors.

Precision Positioning: Using laser encoders or barcode addressing, an RGV can stop with an accuracy of ±2mm, making it perfect for docking with robotic arms or conveyor belts.

High Payload: Designed to carry anything from small totes to 5,000kg (5 tons) industrial pallets.

Simplicity & Reliability: With no complex "mapping" software or steering mechanisms, RGVs have fewer failure points and lower maintenance costs than autonomous robots.

3. Primary Application Fields

AS/RS Integration: RGVs are frequently used as "feeders" for Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems, moving pallets from the racking aisles to the shipping docks.

Cross-Zone Transport: Ideal for connecting distant areas of a factory—such as moving raw materials from a warehouse across a long bridge to a production workshop.

Cold Storage: Because they don't rely on complex sensitive cameras, RGVs perform exceptionally well in deep-freeze environments (-25°C) where battery life and sensor fogging are issues for other robots.

Automotive Assembly: Moving heavy car chassis between different welding and assembly stations in a perfectly timed sequence.

RGV vs. AGV: Quick Comparison

Feature	RGV (Rail Guided)	AGV (Automated Guided)
Path Flexibility	Fixed (requires rails)	High (software-defined)
Travel Speed	Very High (up to 200m/min)	Moderate (up to 90m/min)
Load Capacity	Extremely Heavy	Moderate to Heavy
System Complexity	Low (Stable & Robust)	High (Advanced Sensors)
Best Environment	Predictable, high-volume loops	Dynamic, changing floor plans