There are several steps to complete when implementing an AGV system, and IT infrastructure is one of them. When the IT setup gets pushed back on the timeline, it always delays the installation of AGVs. Conversations between Align and your IT team to discuss AGV system IT requirements early in the sales process are among the most practical steps a customer can take to protect their go-live date.
Start the Conversation Before the Purchase Order
- A server for System Manager software and remote desktop access. System Manager is the software that governs the AGV fleet. It needs to live on a server your team controls, with remote access enabled so Align can connect to it for support, diagnostics, and layout changes.
- A dedicated Wi-Fi network. The AGVs communicate with System Manager over Wi-Fi, so the vehicle controllers and the System Manager server need to be on the same network. Our system is most compatible with WPA2 Personal Wi-fi networks. If your facility uses enterprise Wi-Fi, there is a hardware module that can be wired to the AGV controller to handle authentication, though it limits some network diagnostic capabilities. For large facility layouts, plan for multiple access points to provide the fleet with solid coverage throughout the space. In situations where Wi-fi signals could become weakened (i.e. tunnels, ovens, etc.), antennas can be added to the AGVs to boost the signal and ensure strong connectivity.
- An OPC server. This is the communication layer between the AGV system and other equipment in your facility. We prefer to use Kepware’s KepServerEX, but can support other products if necessary. The OPC server is the go-between: When a PLC sends a signal indicating its status, that signal goes to the OPC server, which passes it to System Manager, which then tells the AGVs how to respond.
- VPN access and login credentials. Align needs a secure way to remote into the System Manager server. We understand remote access policies are different for everyone. It is important we discuss these policies early in the process to form strategies around access, usage, file sharing, and other permissions.
The Communication Setup Happens Before the Units Arrive
Once IT infrastructure is in place, Align will assist you with communication testing and system configuration.
This includes connecting System Manager to the host system, configuring the OPC server tags, and testing that signals move correctly between the AGV system and your PLCs or WMS.
Tags are the individual data points being exchanged between systems. A tag might represent something like “Transporter 1 is in position at Station A.” That tag exists in System Manager, in the OPC server, and in the customer’s PLC allowing systems to communicate and step through logic collaboratively. Working through this early in the process allows for a streamlined start-up, bringing vehicles into production shortly after delivery.
AGV system design and setup depends largely on the complexity of communication and control requirements for the system. Simpler systems can be built relatively quickly, while more complex systems require ample design and testing time. In any case, it is imperative the AGV system is built and tested before vehicles arrive on site.
What Happens After Go-Live?
The ongoing division of responsibility is worth discussing before the system goes live. In the early months, we recommend customers focus on learning the system and staying on top of hardware maintenance, particularly safety scanners and sensors. Swapping a scanner and downloading the configuration is something most engineering teams can handle without a service call.
As your team gets comfortable with the system, they can manage additional tasks independently: adjusting individual vehicle parameters, modifying safety scanner fields, and applying system updates that Align sends remotely. Align handles major layout changes, revision control on System Manager, and anything involving PLC code.
After go-live, questions and minor change requests are common as customers gain experience with the new system. Ongoing collaboration is expected and Align will provide support, whether remote or on-site as needed. Support packages can be purchased with the initial project or independently.
Ready to Implement Your AGV System?
Align Production Systems designs and manufactures automated guided vehicle (AGV) systems for heavy industry, with in-house engineering, software, and installation capabilities. We provide an IT requirements document at the start of every project and work directly with your team through commissioning and beyond.
With over 50 years of experience and a dedicated support team, we’re with you from the first conversation to long after go-live.
Ready to talk about your AGV project? Contact our team at sales@alignprod.com.
