The Implementation of Automated Guided Vehicles to Logistics Processes in a Production Company—Case Study

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Authors: Iveta Kubasáková, Jaroslava Kubáňová, Dominik Benčo
Cited by: 1
References: 21

Abstract

The automation of logistics processes in companies is an essential part of the modernization and advancement of companies around the world. This article deals with the issue of deploying a selected type of automated guided vehicle (AGV) in very specific conditions. AGV is suitable for optimizing the circular supply chain in specific conditions of a manufacturing company. The deployment of AGVs is governed by the production needs of the section in question. The selection criterion was therefore the quantity of products that needed to be transported on the selected route. The article uses a new calculation of AGV requirements based on the saturation of individual components from the picking location to the assembly line. The ratio indicator was considered: driving time per shift, depending on the length of working time. Based on this calculation, the most effective option was applied from the individual solutions. Based on our calculation, we arrived at a requirement for three AGVs, plus a reserve, i.e., four. Our selected calculations were applied to the FRONT and TOP positions, where a decision was made between the option of using under-run AGVs or a truck. The decision was made based on the saturation level, and the result is described at the end of the discussion. The AGV is one of the tools for sustainable supply chain management in a company. However, it is important to evaluate the total cost of ownership, including lower labour costs, less risk of damage to goods, higher productivity, and long service life of the trucks. Thanks to these factors, AGVs often prove to be economically advantageous.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Transport and Logistics Innovations Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics Optimization Digital Transformation in Industry

Publication details

Journal / source
Sustainability
Publisher
MDPI AG
Volume
18
Issue
1
Pages
538–538
Publication date
5 January 2026
Language
EN