Battery Charging Systems - VAHLE - #2

Xi general information

The operation of Automatic Guided Vehicles (AGVs) requires high utilization of these vehicles in order to achieve an optimum of profitability. Often, recharge of the batteries which are required for the drive of the AGVs, presents a problem.

The development of powerful batteries, which allow for quick recharge within seconds, enables the inte­gration of charging contacts into the production cycle without removing the AGVs from the produc­tion process.

Battery charging stations may be installed anywhere within the system where the production process allows the AGV to stop (staging areas, turn arounds, loading stops etc.). Attention should be paid to attain best possible integration into a given layout.

VAHLE has developed special battery charging contacts which fully meet any requirement.

A battery charging contact consists of a base plate, which is installed on the floor or laterally at a bracket adjacent of the AGV runway, and a current collector which is installed on the vehicle.

A battery charger supplies current to the base plate. Once the AGV is in charging position and the collec­tor has made contact with the base plate, the AGV computer turns on the current.

The base plate has chamfered entry/exit ramps to facilitate smooth drive-on/drive-off of the spring loa­ded collector. Bristle brushes installed on the collec­tor remove debris from the base plate.

VAHLE battery operating charging contacts are designed for an voltage of 24 - 84 V. Nominal volta­ges > 25 V AC or 60 V DC require a protection against accidental touch.

AGVs serve as transportation vehicles and mobile assembly platforms. They connect assembly areas with assembly lines, service AS/AR installations etc.

The great variety of possible applications often requires custom designed AGVs with very specific demands for battery charging contacts.

A selection of our wide range of battery charging contacts is shown on the following pages.

AGVs: 12 units Charging stations: 4 units

Batteries: 12 units

3-Shift-Operation

1 = Loading stop

2 = Assembling place

3 = Hand-over area

4 = AGV staging area

5 = Charging stations

6 = Buffer store and floor mounted

charging contacts

^central '

computer

ply

ply

Main sup

AC

Charging station

Battery

AGV-Collector AGV-Base Plate

Schematic layout of power supply for Automatic Guided Vehicles (AGVs)

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