Conveyor AGV Overview | Structure, Working Principles & Key Features

As manufacturers accelerate toward smart, data-driven production, automated material transfer has become a key factor in improving efficiency and maintaining consistent output. Among the many automation technologies available today, Conveyor AGVs stand out as one of the most practical and impactful solutions. These vehicles not only transport materials but also automate the handoff between workstations, machines, and conveyors—a crucial capability for continuous-flow production.

This article provides a clear and comprehensive overview of how a Conveyor AGV works, what components it uses, and why AOTENENG’s solutions are widely adopted across modern factories.

What Is a Conveyor AGV?

A Conveyor AGV is an Automated Guided Vehicle equipped with a built-in powered conveyor system—roller, belt, chain, or a customized configuration.
Its core purpose is to perform fully automated loading and unloading of materials without requiring human interaction.

This makes the Conveyor AGV ideal for:

• Assembly lines

• Machine-to-machine transfer

• Robotic cells

• Warehouse sorting

• Packing and labeling lines

• Cleanroom material movement

In short: it transfers, aligns, and hands off materials with consistent timing and precision.

Technical Specifications (Typical Series)

(Specs can be customized based on workflow requirements)

The Core Structure of a Conveyor AGV

AOTENENG Conveyor AGVs are built around an industrial-grade structure designed for reliability and accuracy. Key components include:

1. Reinforced Chassis Frame

The backbone of the AGV.

• Heavy-duty steel structure

• Low vibration design

• Anti-twist, high-rigidity frame

This ensures precise docking and long-term reliability even under continuous daily operation.

2. Conveyor Module (Roller / Belt / Chain)

The conveyor is the heart of the system and can be customized to your workflow.

AOTENENG offers:

• Motorized roller conveyors for bins, totes, cartons, and components

• Belt conveyors for soft bags and lightweight goods

• Chain conveyors for pallets or heavy-duty loads

• Multi-level conveyors for multi-process transfer

Each conveyor is driven by an independent motor, allowing synchronized operation with external conveyors or machines.

3. Navigation System

Depending on the environment and required flexibility, AOTENENG supports:

• Laser SLAM navigation for dynamic environments

• QR/fiducial navigation for high-precision path control

• Hybrid navigation combining multiple methods

These systems allow the AGV to move safely, intelligently, and accurately.

4. Safety Sensors

AOTENENG AGVs integrate:

• 360° LIDAR scanning

• Ultrasonic sensors

• Side and rear obstacle detection

• Emergency stop buttons

• LED and audible alarms

These ensure safe operation in mixed environments involving people, forklifts, and other AGVs.

5. Drive and Power System

Based on application needs:

• High-efficiency brushless motors

• Industrial wheels for stable traction

• Long-life lithium battery packs or fast-charging stations

This allows 24/7 operation with minimal downtime.

How a Conveyor AGV Works: The Operational Principle

Although every factory layout is different, the workflow of a Conveyor AGV typically follows this automated cycle:

Step 1: Task Assignment

The AGV receives tasks from:

• MES / WMS

• PLC or robotic cell

• Central fleet management system

• Manual order initiation

Tasks can be triggered by machine signals or process events.

Step 2: Autonomous Navigation

The AGV navigates to the pickup or drop-off point using sensors and real-time mapping.

It adjusts:

• Speed

• Turning angle

• Safety zones

To ensure smooth and safe movement through the facility.

Step 3: Automated Docking

When nearing the target station:

• Positioning sensors refine the AGV’s alignment

• Docking precision reaches ±10 mm

• Conveyor heights match exactly with the station

This ensures reliable material exchange.

Step 4: Conveyor Handoff

The built-in conveyor activates and transfers materials:

• AGV → Machine/Conveyor

• Machine/Conveyor → AGV

Depending on the direction and process requirements.

All of this happens automatically without manual intervention.

Step 5: Reporting and Next Task

After delivery:

• Status is updated to MES/WMS/PLC

• The AGV receives the next job

• Battery status and maintenance conditions are monitored in real time

This creates a fully autonomous and closed-loop workflow.

Key Features That Set AOTENENG Conveyor AGVs Apart

✓ High Docking Accuracy

Precise alignment (±10 mm) ensures stable, repeatable material transfer.

✓ Industrial-Grade Reliability

Steel chassis and high-durability rollers keep performance stable under heavy workloads.

✓ Broad Customization Options

From conveyor type to load size to floor conditions—AOTENENG designs AGVs around your process, not the other way around.

✓ Intelligent Fleet Management

AOTENENG AGVs communicate with each other to avoid congestion, optimize routes, and balance workload.

✓ Flexible Layout Integration

Supports fixed-route or dynamic SLAM environments, perfect for both new smart factories and existing lines.

✓ Seamless System Integration

Compatible with:

• MES

• WMS

• Robots

• Automated conveyors

• Packaging equipment

• Vision inspection systems

Where Conveyor AGVs Provide the Most Value

AOTENENG customers deploy Conveyor AGVs in:

• Automotive & EV parts manufacturing

• Electronics and semiconductor lines

• Home appliance assembly

• FMCG packaging

• Food & beverage lines

• E-commerce and high-speed sorting centers

Wherever repetitive material handoff is required, a Conveyor AGV dramatically increases consistency and output.