Smart and flexible manufacturing systems using Autonomous Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and the Internet of Things (IoT)

Technologies such as Autonomous Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and the Internet of Things (IoT) increasingly disrupt traditional manufacturing production systems. However, there is a scarcity empirical studies synthesising evaluating impact disruptive technologies on existing This study examines AGVs applying IoT Flexible Manufacturing Systems (FMS) through case demonstrating integration with in company. As concept, FMS was conceived decades ago; this uses socio-technical systems theory to elaborate concept into current context. Key themes uncovered from literature review include (i) warehouse systems, (ii) AGV scheduling routing, (iii) Human-machine interface, (iv) integrating controlling AGVs/IoT. The demonstrates how can create smart, flexible by taking following steps: (a) problem identification, (b) performance measurement, (c) designing proposed solution, (d) evaluate (e) implementation new (f) future improvements. concludes specific recommendations implement Industry 4.0 companies.