Inductive charging of automated guided vehicles (AGVs): What are the advantages of contactless charging for mobile robots?
Inductive charging is a vital component for the efficient and safe operation of automated guided vehicles (AGVs), offering numerous benefits over traditional conductive charging methods.
All of our new-generation transport robots are equipped with Wiferion‘s inductive charging technology as standard, allowing energy transfer that is automatic, highly efficient, and contact-free through electromagnetic induction.
9 advantages of inductive charging systems for mobile robots
1. Fully automatic battery charging
Inductive technology automates the charging process. When a transport robot aligns with an inductive charger, charging begins within one second, ensuring minimal downtime.
2. No downtime thanks to “In-Process Charging”
Instead of driving to a fixed battery charging station (“Out-Process-Charging”), we charge our mobile robots using the so-called “In-Process-Charging” during operation.
Our AGVs are automatically recharged fully during their routine workflows at frequently visited spots within the warehouse or along the assembly line. This innovative approach allows the robots to capitalize on even the briefest stops—for instance, a few seconds at a transfer station—to efficiently replenish their energy.
This strategy ensures seamless 24/7 operation of the AGVs without any interruptions for charging, thus enhancing overall productivity. Furthermore, it reduces the need for a larger fleet since no additional vehicles are required to cover for others during charging breaks.
3. Smaller batteries
Frequent in-process charging means AGVs can operate with smaller batteries while maintaining high energy levels, reducing costs significantly.
4. No contamination of the production environment
Wiferion’s sealed battery charging systems (etaLINK) do not require any mechanical components. This enables a charging process with minimal particle generation. Contamination of the work environment due to abrasion typically seen with sliding contacts, is eliminated.
5. High efficiency
The inductive battery chargers boast a high efficiency rate of up to 93%. This level of efficiency is comparable to the best wired chargers and is significantly higher than that achieved by conductive charging stations with sliding contacts. Moreover, these charging systems only consume electricity when an AGV is correctly positioned on them, ensuring optimal energy use.
6. Easy installation and integration
Inductive charging systems comprise a wall box and a charging pad. These stations can be flexibly installed in a variety of locations within logistics and production environments, including on walls, floors, along travel paths, at buffer zones, and at loading and unloading stations.
7. No additional charging areas required
Since we charge AGV batteries in-process, there is no need for specially designated charging areas. Consequently, compared to other charging technologies, less space is required for the charging infrastructure, allowing the freed-up area to be utilized for value-added processes.
8. Maintenance-free
Inductive chargers operate without mechanical sliding contacts, making them virtually maintenance-free. Common issues seen in conventional charging, such as oxidized plugs, worn charging contacts, or broken cables, are effectively eliminated
9. Increased safety for your employees
Traditional charging systems with plug connections and sliding contacts require complex peripheral circuits and protective devices to ensure the safety of employees and systems. In contrast, inductive chargers have no exposed contacts, significantly enhancing occupational safety.
Conclusion:
Automating the charging process for mobile robots with inductive chargers brings a multitude of benefits for users. Compared to other technologies, process reliability increases enormously.