PLC based Remote Guided Vehicle for Filling and Disposal of Toxic Chemical for Unmanned Applications

Abstract

Remote Guided Vehicle designed for performing operations quickly, repeatedly and
accurately has a long heritage in the manufacturing industry, operating in relatively static
environments and in large numbers. Trends in the oil and gas industry to improve safety and
efficiency and reduce environmental impact suggest the use of robotized vehicle. New
developments in regions difficult or dangerous for humans to work in could be enabled with
maintenance, inspection and repairs carried out by remotely-controlled Automated Guided
Vehicle (AGV). Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is an integral part of any industrial
work. Therefore, we have designed and developed a PLC based automated remote guided
vehicle for filling and disposal of toxic chemical for unmanned application. This paper
discusses aspects of different components used to develop an AGV and controlling its
movement and on board utilities. Further, this AGV is interfaced to a 23-point PLC using
wireless transmitter and receiver pair. This ensures the wireless communication to suit any
such applications where human beings cannot access and control. Automated guided vehicle
is used to transport toxic chemicals in areas where humans cannot reach. PLC program is
written to control the AGV to follow the predetermined path and then, load the chemical at a
point and unload at the other point.