Automated guided vehicle (AGV) with batch picking robotic arm
AssigneeBastian Solutions, LLC
InventorsWilliam A. Bastian, II, Aaron M. Jones
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A system includes an automated guided vehicle (AGV). A loading table is positioned on the AGV. The loading table is configured and sized to hold more than one storage container. A frame extends from the AGV. A robotic arm is mounted to the frame. In one form, the frame includes a gantry that moves relative to the rest of the AGV. Alternatively or additionally, the robotic arm is able to move relative to the gantry. By holding more than one storage container, the AGV facilitates automatic batch picking or placing of items. The gantry increases the degrees of freedom of movement of the robotic arm.
Claims21
A method, comprising:
- moving an automated guided vehicle (AGV) to a storage station, wherein the AGV includes
- a loading table upon which containers are supported, and
- a robotic arm coupled to a gantry that locates the robotic arm above the containers;
- and
- transporting items with the robotic arm between the storage station and the containers;
- wherein the loading table includes a conveyor on which the containers are disposed;
- maintaining the conveyor at a stationary position relative to the rest of the AGV during said transporting;
- and
- wherein said transporting includes servicing the containers on the conveyor by moving the gantry relative to the conveyor when the conveyor is at the stationary position.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.