On using automated guided vehicles instead of conveyors

Conveyors are cheaper, simpler and faster than automated guided vehicles (AGVs), but the latter have become an affordable option with pluses like flexibility and adaptability. In this work, we have explored how AGVs can replace a conveyor system in an automated laboratory for clinical analyses. Often, these facilities feature a conveyor system to transport samples from one machine to another at the highest rates possible. We have simulated a plant where tube racks with samples are transported by AGVs to see if the overall throughput achieves the maximum capacity of analyzers. Simulation results show that it is possible to achieve the same production yield with AGVs whereas the robustness and adaptability are higher.