Laser Target Navigation

Technology

AGV is equipped with a rotating laser transmitter/receiver mounted on a turret
Single stripe reflective targets (also called reflectors) are mounted at fixed positions on walls, and building columns.
The targets are mounted in ways allowing the AGV to be constantly in a direct line of sign with at least 3 targets
When a laser beam leaves the AGV and gets reflected back by a target, the AGV calculates the beam's angle and distance in relation to the target, and uses a triangulation algorithm to determine its accurate position.
The AGV has a map of all targets stored in its memory which allows it to compare the actual measurements with the expected ones, and uses that to correct its position error
To maximize accuracy and reliability, Dead-Reckoning navigational system is used simultaneously by continuously measuring wheel rotation and steering angle

Components

Safety scanners used for obstacle detection and for positioning accuracy
Rotating class 1 laser scanner that is safe for continuous use
Wheel encoders to measure travel
Steering encoders to measure steering angles
On-board computer to control the AGV and interface with supervisory system and/or PLC system

Accuracy

Advantages