Abstract: The control unit includes a retrieval target article identification unit configured to identify a retrieval target article from among the articles stored in the storage unit on the basis of retrieval information indicating a retrieval completion state, a reverse sequential operation calculation unit configured to calculate a reverse sequential operation when it is assumed that the retrieval target article is moved to the storage position in the storage unit in a reverse sequence from the retrieval completion state, and a retrieval operation calculation unit configured to calculate a retrieval operation in which the retrieval target article is moved from the storage position in the storage unit and is in the retrieval completion state by reproducing the reverse sequential operation in reverse.

Abstract: An operation control system for automated guided vehicles conveying articles along an unmanned conveying system. This operational control system comprises a first travel path loop and a second travel path loop along which a first group and a second group of the automated guided vehicles are automatically travelled. A common travel path is provided along which the automated guided vehicles of both the first and the second group are travelled, to enable a transfer of articles between the groups of automated guided vehicles. Also a correlating unit for correlating one automated guided vehicle of the first group with another automated guided vehicle of the second group, and a transfer control unit for controlling the transfer of the articles between the automated guided vehicles are provided. The transfer control unit permits only a transfer of articles between automated guided vehicles correlated with each other by the correlating unit.

Abstract: A travel control device for an unmanned vehicle automatically travelling along a predetermined travel path. The travel control device comprises non-contact type and contact type obstacle sensors for detecting an obstacle in front of the unmanned vehicle, and the unmanned vehicle is stopped when an obstacle is detected. A working area is predetermined along the travel path, and entrance and exit marks are provided to indicate the working area. When the unmanned vehicle enters the working area, a detection of signals output by the non-contact type obstacle sensor is disabled, to avoid unnecessary stops in the specific area and maintain a smooth travel of the unmanned vehicle.