Autonomous mobile robots

AMR vs. AGV

AMRs use sensors, artificial intelligence (AI), 2D vision systems, and 3D vision systems to navigate in complex work environments.

Autonomous guided vehicles (AGVs) are mobile but use wires or tracks, moving along narrowly defined routes.

Common AMR uses

• Unloading trailers
• Warehouse fleet management
• Conveyor systems
• Manufacturing work cells
• Tugger, trolley replacement
• Pick-and-place

First used by NASA for space exploration, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are one of the fastest-growing categories in the automation world, capable of guiding themselves across factories to perform work in multiple locations.

Industries using AMRs

• Aerospace
• Semiconductors
• Automotive
• Logistics
• Manufacturing
• Textiles
• Retail

Reasons for service robot deployment

• Productivity/efficiency
• Product/service quality
• Operational capacity

Retail/service robots

IDC’s 2018 Commercial Service Robotics Survey: More than 90% of companies surveyed plan commercial service robot use; led by retail, wholesale/distribution.