Guidance Systems for Self-Propelled Vehicles

The transportation of heavy loads in modern industrial applications has undergone a significant transformation over time. Self-propelled vehicles equipped with advanced guidance systems have emerged as a superior solution, offering unmatched safety and logistical efficiency. These innovative systems are rapidly replacing traditional heavy material handling methods such as cranes, portable lifting equipment, rail systems, and pig carts. In this article, we will explore the various guidance systems for self-propelled vehicles, their advantages, and their applications.

Electric Guidance System Options

At Fada Engineering, we offer a wide range of self-propelled vehicle options that can be equipped with different guidance systems tailored to your specific needs. These systems include:

1. Front Axle Steering

Front axle steering is a simple and cost-effective option, similar to the steering mechanism used in everyday vehicles. This system has a wide turning radius, making it suitable for large transport areas. Self-propelled vehicles with front axle steering are commonly used for transporting heavy machinery and materials such as molds, coils, beams, and pipes.

2. Front and Rear Axle Steering

The front and rear axle steering system enables both the front and rear axles to turn at the same angle, providing a tighter turning radius. This means the vehicle’s turning center is along the central axis of the vehicle. It is an ideal choice when a small turning radius is needed at a lower cost. These vehicles, with both axles self-propelled, are commonly used in factories with limited space, where there are no complex access points, and where precise loading and unloading positions are not required.

3. ± 90° Steering

The ± 90° steering system is an intermediate solution between the above-mentioned options in terms of cost and turning radius. In this system, the front axle can turn ± 90°, with the turning center located at the rear axle, allowing for a very small turning radius. This option is often used for electric pallet trucks designed to carry heavy loads. The system is also commonly utilized in one-way Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and applications where budget constraints or compact machine sizes are necessary.

4. Four-Wheel Steering

Four-wheel steering represents the pinnacle of technological advancement in guidance systems. With this system, all wheels can be independently controlled, providing exceptional flexibility. This versatility allows the vehicle to operate with precision in tight spaces, move both longitudinally and laterally, rotate around its central axis or a specific point, and even perform crab movements. The four-wheel steering system is frequently used for transporting extremely large and bulky loads such as tanks, large coolers, power transformers, prefabricated concrete structures, and long cylindrical objects.

Many of our clients from different sectors prefer the four-wheel steering system. These sectors include the oil and gas industry, where self-propelled vehicles must operate in extremely confined spaces; energy generation, where transformers, coolers, turbines, compressors, and heat exchangers are manufactured; the maritime industry; prefabrication; the nuclear energy sector; and industries dealing with the continuous transportation of heavy and large loads, such as turbines and wind turbines.

Guidance systems for self-propelled vehicles mark the beginning of a new era in heavy load transportation, offering unmatched efficiency and versatility. By selecting the right guidance system, you can enhance safety, reduce operational costs, and optimize your logistics.