Printing newspapers is a fast-paced job requiring timely replenishment of paper to feed the presses. To ensure that happens all the time and on time, the North New Jersey Media Group's Commercial Printing Division installed a fleet of seven automatic guided vehicles (AGVs).

The division regularly prints 104 newspapers in the 300,000 square foot facility. Press lines run at speeds of 70,000 copies per hour. That kind of speed requires constant movement of newsprint rolls from staging areas to the 19 spider stands that feed the presses. All of the AGVs are dedicated to moving the wide variety of paper rolls between those areas, ensuring that presses are never starved.

The 4,000-pound capacity roll handlers are equipped with wire guidance, and operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Vehicles are on the go until directed to charging stations to recharge their 48-volt batteries.

An on-board vehicle controller maximizes performance. Beyond standard operation of the vehicle, it allows off-wire maneuvers such as vehicle p-turns, which let the AGVs shortcut the standard route when possible, saving much wear and tear.

An online modem service allows in-house systems engineers to maintain the AGV control system without scheduling supplier maintenance visits. The system's software customizes interface, traffic control and routing. It is enhanced with features specifically designed for the newspaper industry.