Positioning and communication system for autonomous guided vehicles in indoor environment

An autonomous guided vehicle (AGV) requires a wireless communication system for communication with the host computer and other AGVs. Optical systems (e.g. infrared communication) are available with different performances, but become inoperable when obstructed. Radio systems are useful for providing flexible connections for non-stationary manufacturing equipment, AGVs and the host computer. However, most of the commercial available radio networks do not meet the requirements for highly reliable communication in manufacturing environments and buildings. A communication system is presented which is closely related to the AGV´s localization system used. Determination of the current absolute position provides the common basis for navigation and communication of AGVs. The localization system uses floor tiles that contain inscribed and adequately encoded information for the determination of the vehicle´s absolute position. The whole system provides the fusion of localization and communication systems for autonomous guided vehicles