Transforming AGV Operations with an Integrated Connectivity Solution and Advanced GMSL Cameras

Introduction:

Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) have significantly transformed the industrial sector, particularly in tasks involving heavy material handling and transportation. However, the complexity of equipping these AGVs with robust, high-performance computing and seamless communication mechanisms for efficient operations and real-time monitoring poses several challenges.

Industry: Smart Factory

Application: AMR & AGV

Solution: Networking & High-speed Connectivity Solution

Challenge

The primary challenge was the integration of high-performance computing and communication modules into the compact design of an AGV, without sacrificing efficiency or driving up costs. A substantial part of this challenge was the implementation of a camera sensor hub for autonomous driving, a control unit for autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), or a video transcoding unit for the teleoperation of unmanned ground vehicles, all of which have complex technical requirements and need precise synchronization.

Solution

To address these challenges, our client employed an advanced edge AI fanless computer, supported by ATTEND's comprehensive connectivity solution. This powerful computing device is equipped with on-board GMSL deserializers, enabling it to synchronize multiple automotive GMSL camera inputs, a key requirement for enabling autonomous vehicle operation.

The solution leveraged the versatility of several M.2 sockets to cater to diverse functional needs. The M.2 Key B slots enabled robust 5G/4G LTE wireless connectivity, fostering seamless communication with control centers. The M.2 Key E slot supported WiFi/Bluetooth modules, facilitating efficient local network connections and data exchange. The M.2 Key M slot, devoted to NVMe SSD storage expansion, ensured swift data access and fluid AGV operations.

To further enhance the system's communication capabilities, ATTEND's 115A SIM Card Socket was incorporated, providing seamless cellular data connectivity. The system also integrated ATTEND's 214A RJ45 connector with Power over Ethernet (PoE), streamlining data transfer while simultaneously providing power, thus simplifying the overall system design.

An essential aspect of the solution was the FAKRA RF Cable, used to support GMSL cameras via FAKRA Z connectors. This enabled high-quality image capture under different lighting conditions, a critical requirement for the effective operation of autonomous vehicles

Results:

By leveraging ATTEND's comprehensive connectivity solutions and the advanced capabilities of the edge AI fanless computer, the AGV system's performance and functionality were significantly improved. As a result, AGVs were able to offer efficient, reliable, and real-time services, meeting the demanding requirements of industrial applications. This consequently led to enhanced productivity and operational efficiency. The successful integration of multiple GMSL cameras, facilitated by FAKRA Z connectors, highlighted the system's advanced capabilities, especially in autonomous operation and real-time control