What are the significant differences between RGV and AGV carts?

2023.05.25

Our company has conducted in-depth research and development on both RGV cart systems and AGV cart systems. Although these two types of transport carts share similarities in appearance, their core characteristics and application fields are vastly different. The specific differences are embodied in the following aspects:

Definitions: An AGV cart, or Automated Guided Vehicle, is equipped with electromagnetic or optical automatic guidance devices, enabling it to travel autonomously along preset paths and possessing safety protection and cargo handling functions. Its high degree of automation integration and excellent site adaptability perfectly meet the various needs of modern production. An RGV cart, or Rail Guided Vehicle, is mainly used in high-density, three-dimensional warehouses. It relies on fixed tracks for operation, featuring a simple structure and strong anti-interference capabilities, especially suitable for handling heavy cargo.
Characteristic differences: RGV carts are renowned for their simple structure, strong anti-interference capabilities in external environments, broad operator requirements, excellent operational stability, and fewer fault points (primarily within the cart system). They utilize advanced computer control systems and are operated under the guidance of professional technicians. In contrast, AGV carts receive and execute instructions, achieving full-process intelligence and mechanization, significantly enhancing work efficiency.
Functions: RGV carts are primarily used in various high-density storage warehouses, while AGV carts, as transport tools with safety protection and multiple cargo handling functions, are widely used in multiple production fields.
Component parts: The composition of RGV carts mainly includes parts such as the cart frame, drive wheels, follower wheels, front and rear bumpers, chain conveyors, communication systems, electrical systems, and various cover plates. AGV carts, on the other hand, consist of core components such as unmanned automated guided vehicles, AGV management systems, monitoring systems, and intelligent charging systems.
Operational conditions: RGV carts exhibit strong operational stability and relatively fewer fault points (primarily within the sliding contact line system) due to their simple structure, strong anti-interference capabilities in external environments, and broad operational requirements. AGV carts, with their high degree of automation integration and excellent site adaptability, better meet the actual needs of modern production.
Flexibility comparison: RGV carts obtain power from sliding contact lines and operate on fixed tracks, so once the route is determined, modifications are difficult, limiting their adaptability to different usage sites. AGV carts can easily change their operational trajectories by modifying the map program according to process requirements and adjusting the circular magnetic strips accordingly.
Maintenance cost considerations: Due to the simple structure of RGV carts and the fact that most of their components are domestically produced standard parts, their equipment maintenance costs are relatively low. AGV carts, with their complex structure and the extensive use of imported and self-designed components, are expensive. Additionally, extra costs such as battery maintenance and magnetic strip replacement make the maintenance costs of AGV carts significantly higher than those of RGV carts.

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What are the significant differences between RGV and AGV carts?