Implementing AGVs Without Disrupting Production

Implementing AGVs and mobile robots doesn't have to mean production chaos. In Episode 6 of Getting Traction with Mobile Robots, host Emily Pallikan sits down with Chase Eklund, Product Development Manager at America in Motion, to discuss one of the biggest concerns manufacturers have when considering automation: How do you implement AGVs without disrupting production? Chase shares a behind-the-scenes look at what a successful AGV rollout actually involves, from facility surveys and virtual testing to phased implementation strategies and customer collaboration. He explains how modern automation projects minimize downtime through simulation, validation, scheduling, and careful planning before a single vehicle arrives on-site. Whether you're exploring automation for the first time or looking to expand an existing system, this episode provides a practical look at how AGV implementations are designed to protect production schedules while delivering long-term operational gains. In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ Common misconceptions about AGV implementation ✅ How phased rollouts reduce production risk ✅ Why simulation and testing are critical before deployment ✅ The role scheduling plays in successful automation projects ✅ How AGVs integrate with existing automation systems ✅ Why short-term downtime often leads to long-term gains ✅ Real examples of AGV systems still running after 15+ years Episode Timestamps: 01:41 Episode overview: implementing AGVs without disrupting production 03:07 The biggest production schedule concerns manufacturers have 04:04 The AGV implementation process explained 05:30 Minimizing downtime through planning and scheduling 07:22 Working through bugs before deployment 10:09 Does every AGV implementation require a shutdown? 11:03 Why AGV ROI often outweighs short-term disruption 11:42 What a phased rollout looks like in a real facility 13:19 Automation as an entire journey 13:57 The hidden complexity behind AGV systems 14:57 The orchestra analogy: automation working together 15:21 Common mistakes companies make during AGV rollouts 16:27 Why scheduling is critical to implementation success 17:43 Real-world example of a tightly planned installation window 19:55 The backstage work required before automation goes live 21:14 Planning for unforeseen delays and contingencies 22:44 Advice for manufacturers worried about production disruption 23:33 Why invest in AGVs in the first place? 24:15 Customer success story: AGV system operating for 18 years 26:47 Final advice for companies considering automation 27:30 Closing thoughts and additional resources Interested in AGVs for your operation? 🎙️ Explore More Podcast Episodes: https://www.weareaim.com/getting-trac... 📊 Start Planning Your AGV System Estimate fleet size, pricing, and ROI with our AGV Planning Tool: https://www.weareaim.com/plan-agv-system 🤝 Talk to an AGV Expert Get answers to your questions and discuss your application: https://www.weareaim.com/agv-consulta... Listen to the full episode! Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033OTi8... #AGV #Automation #Manufacturing #MobileRobots #MaterialHandling #Industry40