How to Define AGV Drive Wheel Acceptance Criteria Before Sampling
Published: 2026/04/24Last reviewed: 2026/04/25Reviewed by Jimmy Su

How to Define AGV Drive Wheel Acceptance Criteria Before Sampling

Set measurable pass/fail standards before sample delivery to avoid subjective review and redesign loops.

Sampling delays often come from unclear acceptance rules, not from hardware alone.

If pass/fail thresholds are undefined, teams debate results instead of closing corrective actions.

1) Build a One-Page Acceptance Matrix

Before sample shipment, lock a matrix with three columns:

  1. Metric definition.
  2. Test method and condition.
  3. Pass/fail threshold.

No metric should exist without a declared condition.

Use these as a practical starting point, then adjust by load class and environment.

CategoryMetricSuggested BaselineTest Condition
TractionContinuous wheel output torque≥ rated value at defined speedRated voltage, steady state
TractionPeak wheel torque capability≥ 1.8x continuous for declared durationBurst test with thermal logging
ThermalMotor/gearbox temperature riseWithin agreed limit over ambientDuty cycle simulation
NVHNoise at 1 m distanceWithin project dBA targetFixed speed and load
NVHVibration at housingWithin RMS limitSame fixture and sensor location
PrecisionRadial runoutWithin tolerance windowDial indicator at wheel OD
PrecisionMounting interface accuracyWithin drawing toleranceCMM or qualified fixture
ProtectionIP complianceMeets declared IP levelDefined ingress test method
ReliabilityEndurance completionNo critical fault after target hoursContinuous cyclic run

3) Example Threshold Pack (Reference Only)

A medium-load indoor AGV project may use a pack like:

  • Continuous torque: ≥ 100% rated at specified speed.
  • Peak torque: ≥ 180% continuous for 10 s.
  • Temperature rise: ≤ 65 C over ambient in steady state.
  • Noise: ≤ 72 dBA at 1 m.
  • Radial runout: ≤ 0.40 mm.
  • Endurance: no functional failure within defined validation duration.

These are reference values. Final limits must be tied to your platform risk and safety case.

4) Standardize the Test Setup

Most disputes come from inconsistent setup. Lock these items in writing:

  • Payload fixture mass and center-of-gravity location.
  • Floor/friction simulation method.
  • Ramp profile and duty sequence.
  • Ambient temperature range.
  • Sensor type, sampling frequency, and calibration status.
  • Data logging format and naming convention.

5) Severity and Disposition Rules

Define what happens when a metric fails.

SeverityDefinitionTypical Action
CriticalSafety or functional stop riskImmediate stop, redesign required
MajorPerformance outside agreed limitCorrective action + retest
MinorCosmetic or low-risk deviationRecord and monitor

Also assign owners and closure dates for every deviation.

6) Buyer Checklist Before Accepting Sample

  • Test report includes raw data, not only screenshots.
  • Conditions match agreed matrix and mission profile.
  • Any deviation has root cause and corrective action evidence.
  • Retest scope is explicitly defined and completed.
  • Approval status is clear: approved, conditional, or rejected.

7) Pilot Entry Gate (After Sample Pass)

Sample pass should unlock pilot only when:

  1. Design baseline is frozen.
  2. Process controls for key dimensions are in place.
  3. Incoming and outgoing inspection criteria are aligned.
  4. Traceability method is confirmed for pilot lot.

Without these four gates, pilot data is usually not representative of SOP reality.

8) Practical Document Set You Should Request

From supplier side, request:

  • Acceptance matrix signed by both teams.
  • Test procedure (step-by-step).
  • Sample test report with raw datasets.
  • Deviation log and closure evidence.
  • Pilot readiness checklist.

If you need a pre-sample acceptance sheet, send your target load class and test conditions to [email protected]. Jimmy Su will provide a manually reviewed matrix template for your project.

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