FRED is smart in its simplicity. This automated guided vehicle (AGV) is simple to set up, productive, flexible and safe. For significantly less than other AGVs, you can be up and running with FRED in no time—without the need of IT support.
Many AGVs require a high setup cost and a significant software operation, something many manufacturers don’t have. But, they still want the benefits of AGVs in their facility. FRED removes both of those barriers. FRED does not connect to any other software and does not require WiFi or GPS—meaning if your internet goes down, FRED won’t. Since it is not connected to other systems, FRED is not at risk of getting a virus or hacked. FRED is easy to set up and adjust. It is simply guided by a clearly marked magnetic tape path. With FRED, you can be up and running in no time.
Productivity
With the job market so tight, worker shortages are a real issue in manufacturing. FRED helps keep your team focused and productive by eliminating the need for a person to transport your products. FRED also reduces the product and facility damage caused by human transport. And, it never needs a break or a sick day. For a fraction of the cost of other AGV’s, FRED can help increase your productivity.
Flexibility
Floor space is at a premium in manufacturing facilities. Because of FRED’s size, it leaves more open floor space than a conveyor. FRED’s top fits a standard 40” x 48” pallet but it can be customized to meet your needs. FRED has a low profile at 11” high and its battery charge lasts over multiple shifts
Safety
FRED limits the common risks of moving your products from one area to another. Obstacles and distractions are no challenge for FRED. It has blue lights on all sides and beeps when moving at its maximum speed of 2.1 mph to ensure that everyone on your floor knows it’s coming through. However, if there is something or someone in FRED’s path, safety lasers stop FRED in its tracks. FRED helps keep your employees safe and healthy and reduces worker compensation claims.
Specifications:
500 lb. empty weight, 2500 lb. max payload
54” X 46” X 11” (with top) 52” X 34” X 10” (without top)
Up to .90” ground clearance for use on uneven floors
Magnetic tape path navigation ensures easy setup and use
Two 12V lead acid batteries standard (two more optional)
Safety laser scanners on front and back to prevent collisions
2.1 mph max speed, making it safe to use around people
Standard tops for 40×48 and euro skids for easy loading
Lighting to indicate travel direction
Illuminated ASI logo to indicate status
Travel alarm makes it easy to locate
Bolt-on fixturing capable, allowing for use with different cargo types
Bidirectional for operation flexibility
Options:
Contact Charging
PURPOSE
Contact charging allows FRED to automatically charge whenever it is stopped at the contact charger location.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Contact charging includes a collector mounted on the side of FRED, a floor pad and a plug in charger. The charger plugs into a 15A minimum AC power outlet. No power will flow to the contact pads until FRED connects and the charger detects a battery ready to be charged.
APPLICATION CONCEPTS
Contact charging is ideal in a 3-shift operation. The contact charging location should be selected so FRED spends the majority of its idle time on the charger. You may also want to use contact charging to insure FRED is automatically charged for a 1 or 2 shift operation. In this case you want to insure FRED stops at the charging location for the full length of any un-used shift. It is possible to install multiple charging locations in case you are not able to insure FRED stopping at one location.
IR Communication
PURPOSE
The IR communication option allows FRED to be triggered from a signal generated electronically.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
One IR module is mounted on FRED and the other is mounted such that it is within 1m and has a line of sight view of the module mounted to FRED.
APPLICATION CONCEPTS
IR communication is ideal for automating assembly lines. This option allows FRED to interface with a computer or PLC. Through this interface, FRED can be commanded to move to the next location without the need for a person to press a go button.
Signal Connector
PURPOSE
This Signal Connector allows access to FREDs go buttons via 3rd party on-board electronics.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
The Signal connector is a 4 pin connector option offered to system integrators who wish to install electronics on-board FRED. The connector provides +24VDC, ground, Go forward, and Go reverse.
Towing Capabilities
PURPOSE
The Towing option allows FRED to tow loads greater than 2,500Lbs, depending on Dolly capacity. This option also enables the quick removal of loads from FRED without waiting for an available forklift.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
The towing option uses a spring energized hitch to hold the dolly tongue to the hitch on FRED. Dollies are available in various sizes.
OPERATION
To release the dolly simply press either side of the release bar toward FRED. This may be done with your foot but take care not to stand or press down on the release bar. Be sure to use the proper size dolly for your skid size. The safety laser on FRED is re-programmed for safe towing.
Wireless Call/Go Button
PURPOSE
The wireless call button option will duplicate the button at each end of FRED but can be triggered up to 100 m away from FRED.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Buttons are available in various colors, contact the factory for details.
OPERATION
Buttons will come from the factory pre-programmed to trigger FRED. Different colors can be programmed to trigger different directions of FRED travel. The buttons are designed for line of site operation. There is an indicator light on the button which will flash green if FRED received a good signal, yellow if FRED received a weak signal and red if FRED did not receive the signal. If the button flashes red, reposition the button and press again or move closer to FRED and press again.