Exploring a Cost-Effective Approach to AGV Solutions: A Case Study in the Textile Industry

This paper explores cost-effective solutions for automated guided vehicle (AGV) through the design and implementation of a low-cost, hoverboard-based line-following AGV tailored for textile manufacturing environments, specifically within sewing plants. The designed AGV leverages the capability of a commercial hoverboard as its mobility platform, significantly reducing development costs while maintaining effective operational performance. Utilizing affordable sensors such as infrared line detectors and ultrasonic sensors, the AGV autonomously navigates pre-defined pathways marked on the factory floor. Its primary function is transporting materials such as fabric bundles and partially or finished products between workstations, addressing common logistical challenges in dynamic and labor-intensive textile production settings. The system is designed for easy integration with both existing plant layouts and information and communication environment, requiring minimal infrastructural changes. Field testing demonstrated the AGV’s reliability, maneuverability, and responsiveness in real-world sewing plant conditions. The proposed solution underscores the potential of retrofitting existing consumer electronics for industrial automation, offering a scalable and economically viable alternative for small- to medium-sized textile enterprises seeking to enhance productivity and workflow efficiency.