The wheel layout of AGVs is a key factor in determining their performance and functionality. Depending on the application and requirements, AGVs can be configured with various wheel layouts. Below are some common AGV wheel configurations and their characteristics:
1. Single Steering Drive Wheel (AGV Steering Drive Wheel)
Layout Features: An AGV is equipped with a single AGV steering drive wheel, typically located at the front or rear of the vehicle, along with two directional wheels or a combination of two directional wheels and two omni-wheels for stable support and steering.
Functionality: This layout allows for basic functions like moving forward, backward, and turning left or right. It has a simple structure, easy control, low maintenance, and a long lifespan.
Applicable Scenarios: Suitable for scenarios where flexibility is not a high priority, such as material handling in warehouses and production lines.
2. Dual Steering Drive Wheels (AGV Steering Drive Wheels)
Layout Features: The AGV is equipped with two AGV steering drive wheels, usually located at the front and rear or diagonally, with two or four auxiliary omni-wheels to enhance stability.
Functionality: In addition to the basic functions of a single steering drive wheel, this configuration allows for in-place turning, lateral movement, and omnidirectional movement on a 2D plane. The performance is superior to the single steering drive wheel layout, offering higher load and traction capacity, with more flexible control.
Applicable Scenarios: Ideal for scenarios requiring higher flexibility and precision, such as operations in narrow aisles and navigation in complex paths.
3. Four-Wheel or More Configurations
Layout Features: Includes configurations with four, six, or more wheels, which can be all steering wheels, differential wheels, or a hybrid configuration (steering wheels + omni-wheels).
Functionality: These layouts typically provide higher stability and load capacity, allowing for more complex movement modes, such as zero turning radius, lateral shifting, and full omnidirectional drift. These features make the AGV more flexible in complex environments.
Applicable Scenarios: Suitable for heavy-duty material transport, automation in large warehouses, and high-precision material handling on production lines.
4. Other Special Layouts
In addition to the common wheel configurations above, there are other special AGV layouts, such as dual differential wheel layouts (allowing for forward/backward movement, turning, and in-place rotation around the center point of the differential wheels), Mecanum wheel layouts (allowing omnidirectional movement), and tracked layouts (suitable for uneven surfaces). These layouts are designed and customized based on specific application needs.
Summary:
Additional Layout Tips: For example, in AGVs with two drive wheels and four omni-wheels:
1.For AGVs operating on fixed routes, try to separate the wheel projections on the ground. In straight-line movement, aim for six non-overlapping linear track projections to extend the lifespan of the floor.
2.For AGVs operating on ramps with edges perpendicular to the slope, align the drive wheels and auxiliary wheels in parallel to minimize uneven load on the wheels and ensure proper pressure on the drive wheels during climbing.
3.If the operating surface has regular horizontal and vertical tracks, position the four auxiliary wheels in a diamond shape. This avoids situations where two auxiliary wheels simultaneously fall into tracks, maintaining vehicle-leveling and reducing wheel bias.
Regardless of the layout type, it is important to ensure that the projections of the auxiliary wheels fall within or slightly beyond the diameter of the circle defined by the distance between the two drive wheels. This minimizes the resistance arm compared to the driving arm, reducing peak current in the drive wheels and improving AGV stability.
In conclusion, AGV wheel layouts are diverse, each with its unique characteristics and application scenarios. When choosing a wheel layout, it is essential to consider actual application needs and specific environmental conditions.
