Amr is an acronym that may sound unfamiliar to many. When we mention this acronym, we are referring to Autonomous Mobile Robots, or Autonomous Warehouse Mobile Robots. Autonomy is what makes these devices capable of navigating freely within warehouses, with dexterity and undeniable precision. Then, they stand out in logistics.  In addition, workers working on-site experience efficiency as well as safety, as the Amr use Lidar systems – an acronym for light detection and ranging – may locate goods and read QR codes without problems. The classification of autonomous mobile robots includes a further distinction between picking robots and those aimed at sorting articles, before they are fully catalogued. The autonomy of these devices is real, and effective, as they are cable-free and do not rely on sophisticated sensors to move on.

Amr are autonomous, efficient, free

An on-board mapping system, capable of delineating the route that divides – or joins – one point and another in the warehouse, makes it possible for AMR vehicles to move freely. These adaptive vehicles include five crucial elements, such as

– a Navigation system, aimed at acquiring the information needed to follow a given route.

– a Safety system, which ensures the safe execution of all movements and operations

– AMovement system, capable of converting the energy drawn from the power supply into mechanical movement.

– a Vehicle controller, which manages all the information required by the sensors to be able to work.

– Power supply, which provides the energy required for vehicle movement and accessory functions. The main elements are the battery and the charging solution.

Before their introduction less sophisticated known as AGVs were used. They used to respond to serial, yet less challenging instructions.

The path to human, collaborative robotics

Due to their ability to move freely and autonomously, bypass obstacles and change their route as men pass by, AMR devices behave like advanced robots. However, they were not designed to replace, but collaborate with workers. Furthermore, they comply with standards such as Uni en 1525-1999 and are therefore subject to regulation. Autonomous mobile robots are smooth and manoeuvrable in changing contexts, thanks to different

– Wiring, where the robot travels along a track on the ground full of wires, rails, magnetic lines, cables. Therefore, it follows the track mechanically, using a magnetic sensor.

– Laser guidance. Autonomous robots are equipped with a laser transmitter and receiver. The reflective tape is mounted on objects such as walls, stationary machines and poles.  The lasers reflect the tape so the AMR can accurately calculate its position in the surrounding space.

A place where cooperation means automation (and viceversa)

Some AMRs are controlled by a computerised system using transponders embedded in the floor of the facility to verify that the AMR is following the correct route. In order to move correctly and autonomously, they use a visual guidance system. The camera recognises a route marked on the ground. The installation cost is lower and no special installation in the work area is required. Geo-guidance featuring a mapped representation of the surroundings allows AMR to move freely. Being able to automatically calculate its movements, it moves with precision without hesitation. This technology is very flexible and responds to any AMR mapping variation, no matter time and place as it relies on a specific software. It is perhaps the most reliable solution, as well as the most suitable for robots that may move, sort, find and order goods in collaboration with the warehouse operators.