Simtech AGV is helping to push the boundaries of the rapidly developing automation industry with its innovative range of automated wire-guided vehicles (AGVs) for a wide range of commercial applications. In the best of Kiwi traditions, the company is taking on the global heavyweights in this niche market with a combination of lateral thinking, hard work and flexibility.

Characteristics of Technology

• Sociocultural influences and impacts

Characteristics of Technological Outcomes

• Physical and functional properties of an outcome
• 'Proper' and 'alternative' function

Technological Systems

• Control

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Discussion starters:

• How have socio-cultural factors influenced the development and operation of AGVs?
• Justify the fitness for purpose of AGVs in terms of their physical and functional nature and the socio-technological environment within which they operate.
• Explain how control and feedback requirements impact on the operation of industrial AGVs.