At FMC Technologies, we supply solutions, not just products. We make certain that the customer achieves the full benefits that were predicted in justifying the AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) project. To support these claims we offer material handling simulations, integration and engineering studies to make certain that all goals are met.

Simulations
For more complex material handling challenges, FMC Technologies runs material handling simulations. A simulation is a computer model of the material handling process. This model is used to indicate the optimum number of vehicles, paths, and support equipment (e.g. battery charging) locations. Based on the pickup and drop locations, the simulation shows where bottlenecks will develop. Together FMC Technologies and our customers work through these issues to find the most efficient solution. Simulations are important because they accurately predict what realistically can be expected from a system and what can be done to improve it. It is one of the main tools used by FMC Technologies so that we create realistic expectations about what our systems will do. We then follow through with the project and deliver the expected/predicted results. FMC Technologies typically uses the simulation software AutoMod or Cirrus.

Integration
By definition, material handling involves moving materials from one place to another. Typically when this is done, you either want to verify/track delivery of the materials, and/or start another process to do something with those materials. If that tracking is not done or the second process does not start, problems will quickly develop. For the project to be successful, all systems (hardware and software) must work in harmony.
Many of these interdependent systems will probably have been supplied by different vendors. Who should be responsible for making sure they work together? FMC Technologies will gladly accept the roll of integrating equipment/software from various vendors. This is a role we have served many times in integrating AS/RS, conveyors, powered stands, in-floor conveyors, shuttles, palletizers, warehouse management systems, etc. Whether you are interested in a turnkey project or minor systems integration, FMC Technologies will make sure the system as a whole operates as expected and not just the individual pieces.

Engineering Studies
Having a difficult time knowing where to start in conquering your latest material handling challenge? FMC Technologies can help. Although we may not have solved a project exactly like yours, we have decades of experience and hundreds of projects under our belt. We will call on that experience in considering the unique challenges you face. We will guide you through different technologies to the right solution that achieves all your goals.

Project Management
Expert project management is critical to a successful AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) project. With FMC Technologies you have more than a project manager, you have a whole project team.Our project management team will take total responsibility for the complete installation, no matter how large or complex the system. From conception, through engineering, manufacturing, testing, installation and startup, our team will provide you with a complete, cost-effective solution.

Equally important to the FMC Technologies project team, the customer needs to establish a project team as well. Each functional group within the customer's organization must participate in project decisions to develop the best solutions.