Danaher Motion Updates Control Platform for Automated Guided Vehicles

Danaher Motion introduces version 1.4 of its world-renowned NDC8 control platform for automated guided Vehicles (AGVs). The NDC8 control platform now supports up to 10 AC drives per AGV. According to Danaher’s press release, drives can be used for steering, driving or auxiliary control, and AC technology helps increase power while reducing running costs. "NDC8 version 1.4 hosts an industry-standard OPC client, allowing for a smooth connection to any I/O resource on the market. The updated curve-editing tool gives the engineer the freedom to adapt each AGV layout and new spline-based flexible curves allow for increased vehicle speed at corners, while saving floor space when negotiating tight corners. The improved tool set provides statistical data to optimize overall transport flow and increase system productivity." says Henrik Eriksson, strategic product line manager for Danaher Motion’s AGV family of products. Additionally, the route-planning tool set has been enhanced and helps users to limit and avoid AGV traffic congestion problems. Ladder Diagram language has been added to the NDC8 PLC programming environment, OpenPCS, for even more flexibility in customizing AGV solutions. Magnetic spot or magnetic tape navigation can be combined effortlessly and seamlessly with existing laser navigation systems.Combining navigation techniques is particularly useful in environments where neither is optimal for all of the pre-programmed routes of a plant. Danaher Motion’s AGV solutions are used in the steel, automotive, electronics, ceramics, paper and printing, food and beverage, logistics and distribution, and entertainment industries.