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The future of robotics is mobile and autonomous

Thanks to advanced sensor technology, no-code programming as well as state-of-the-art battery technology and higher energy density, autonomous mobile robotics is able to navigate autonomously, detect obstacles safely, evade these and create alternative routes. To ensure the continuous stable operation of our mobile robots, all KUKA vehicles are equipped with state-of-the-art Li-ion batteries, which are available around the clock in inductive charging mode. The result: 24/7 operation and 99% availability.

This unrestricted mobility opens up entirely new areas of application for robotics. It is used in a wide range of industries, including warehousing, manufacturing, healthcare and retail.

KUKA gets your production moving: AMR portfolio

Autonomous mobile robots enable a significant increase in efficiency in warehouse and production environments. They automate transport and logistics processes, thus ensuring faster processing of tasks and an optimized flow of goods. Our compact and flexible AMR models can be easily integrated into existing supply chains. This results in significant savings in time and resources.

KUKA mobile platforms

Our mobile transport platforms for all payloads are collision-free, operate in a swarm and offer absolute flexibility. And this both as a product carrier and a mobile production station.

KUKA mobile robots

Mobile manipulators are designed for safe transport of materials, machine tending, inspection, order picking and pick & place tasks. AMRs are capable of human-robot collaboration.

Autonomous-mobile-manipulator-for-safe-material-transportation,-machine-loading-and-pick-and-place

Fleet management software

The navigation system enables intelligent control, real-time monitoring and optimization of the traffic flow of a heterogeneous group of vehicles (AGVs/AMR) in any configuration.

Are you ready to experience our autonomous mobile robots up close?

Benefit from many years of expertise, innovations in state-of-the-art technology – and comprehensive, reliable customer service around the clock. Schedule an on-site or online demo today.
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Security and no-code programming for barrier-free flow

High flexibility: the linking of any number of autonomous mobile robots, seamless integration into existing operations and faster adaptation to customer requirements or product changes
Intelligent systems from a single source

Our autonomous robots are developed and manufactured with the latest technologies and innovative functions to meet the highest standards in performance, reliability and safety. Our automation portfolio includes series products for industry that meet different specific requirements. These high quality standards are also applied exactly to the AMRs. Thanks to our extensive experience and specialized know-how, we are also able to develop targeted concepts for your tasks in this field.

What advantages does KUKA autonomous mobile robotics offer?

  • A versatile portfolio

    • Autonomous mobile platforms
    • Mobile manipulators
    • HRC-compliant solutions
    • All payloads
    • For cleanroom applications
    • Drive technologies: omnidirectional, differential
    • Standardized and customer-specific solutions

  • Autonomous factory

    • Hybrid and free navigation: via SLAM method and via QR codes
    • No-code solution with artificial intelligence
    • Fleet management for the complete transport system
    • Simple integration into existing production: VDA/VDMA-5050 compatible

  • Global all-round service

    • Customer support 24/7, 365 days a year
    • Broad portfolio of e-services
    • Global partner network
    • Feasibility studies, test setups
    • Virtual simulation
    • Programming services
    • Training of employees on site or digitally

  • High safety

    • AMR meets the requirements of various national and international safety standards for the IoT devices
    • TÜV-tested HRC system (robotics, grippers)
    • ISO-3 cleanroom certification
    • ESD protection acc. to ISO 61340-5-1 and ANSI ESD S20.20
    • IP 54: Protection against water spray and dust

Frequently asked questions about autonomous mobile robotics

What does AMR mean in robotics?

The AMR solutions are self-propelled robot systems such as autonomous mobile robots and autonomous mobile platforms. Thanks to state-of-the-art technology, AMR is able to move independently through your production facilities while avoiding obstacles. They use sensors and cameras for safe navigation.
Artificial Intelligence: Slam navigation for the avoidance of obstacles increases system availability and productivity in the warehouse.

What is the difference between AMR and AGV?

The designations AMR (Autonomous Mobile Robot) and AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle) already indicate the differences:

  • AGVs are track-bound and follow predefined paths defined by wires, magnetic stripes or markings on the floor. They recognize obstacles. However, they stop instead of being able to avoid these.

  • By contrast, AMRs are more flexible: KUKA autonomous robots navigate using maps created by their software on site in real time or loaded in advance. In combination with 3D cameras and sensors, they detect their surroundings, choose the most efficient route to the destination and can bypass obstacles. KUKA AMRs operate completely autonomously.

Where are AMR robots used?

Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are used in a variety of industries and environments because they can work flexibly and efficiently. Here are some of the most common applications:

  • Logistics centers: AMRs are frequently used in logistics centers to optimize material flow. They transport goods within the warehouse, from delivery to dispatch, autonomously navigating obstacles.
  • Production lines: In production environments, AMR robots transport materials and components between different production stations. This increases efficiency and reduces the need for manual intervention.
  • Hospitals: In hospitals, AMR robots are used to distribute medicines, laboratory samples and other medical materials. They can navigate autonomously through the corridors and ensure that important deliveries arrive on time.
  • Variable manufacturing environments: AMR robots provide a flexible solution for manufacturing environments where production conditions change frequently. They can dynamically adjust their routes and adapt to new layouts and requirements.

How safe are mobile robots when working with humans and other objects? How do they avoid collisions?

Human-robot collaboration (HRC) is a top priority at KUKA. Our AMRs were designed specifically for human collaboration and are equipped with the following features to ensure maximum safety and avoid collisions:

  • Laser scanners and 3D cameras: Laser scanners at the front and rear of the mobile robot scan the surrounding environment in an area between 150 and 170 mm above the floor and are able to reliably detect persons in the physical space. Further optional 3D cameras detect obstacles, such as a raised fork lift truck, thus making it possible to avoid collisions with objects. 

  • Reduced speed and acoustic signal during backwards motion: To increase safety, our robots automatically reduce their speed and emit an acoustic signal when they move backwards.

  • EMERGENCY OFF switch (4x): In hazardous situations, our robots have four Emergency Stop pushbuttons that the operator can press at any time to immediately stop the robot.

  • Acoustic alarms and signal lights: If necessary, acoustic alarms and signal lights can be activated to draw attention to special situations and ensure safety.

Thanks to laser scanners and 3D object recognition, the automated guided vehicle (AGV) system is absolutely safe. The collision-free coworker thus takes intralogistics to a new level – especially when used in the consumer goods industry.

What types of sensors are used in mobile robots to detect obstacles?

Autonomous mobile robots use Lidar sensors for navigation to perceive their surroundings and detect obstacles. Sensor types used for KUKA AMRs are:
  • Laser scanners: These sensors use laser beams to accurately measure the distance to objects. They create detailed 2D or 3D maps of the environment, allowing for accurate obstacle detection.
  • 3D cameras: Cameras, in particular stereo cameras or depth cameras, enable visual perception of the environment. By processing images, robots can detect obstacles and determine their position relative to them.
  • Pressure sensors: These sensors measure the pressure between the robot and the surface on which it is moving. They can be used to detect unexpected obstacles or deviations from the planned route.
The combination of various sensors and the intelligent fusion of their data enable autonomous mobile robots to reliably detect obstacles and move safely in their environment.

How efficient and long-lasting are the batteries of the mobile robots?

We use high-quality lithium-ion batteries in our mobile robots. These batteries are characterized by an outstanding service life.

  • Lithium batteries can go through thousands of charging cycles before their capacity decreases noticeably.

  • Beyond this, we use inductive charging technology, which further increases durability and simultaneously ensures high resistance to water and dust.

  • A further advantage of our mobile robots is the exceptionally short charging time of less than 2 hours for an impressive operating time of 8 hours.

What type of navigation technology do mobile robots use?

There are different navigation technologies. For KUKA AMR, we rely on the SLAM method (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping), which is ideally suited for autonomous control. For localization (determination of the robot position and orientation) as well as for map creation, sensor information is recorded exactly and simultaneously and then combined with mathematical algorithms.

If needed, it is also possible to switch to hybrid navigation. Additional QR codes are used on the floor. These are scanned by mobile robot cameras. This method is particularly effective when the ambient conditions change greatly or when fine positioning is required. 

What training or preparation is required to operate and maintain mobile robots?

KUKA offers a wide range of training courses in the field of mobile robotics. Here, you can learn more about operating AMR systems, handling navigation software and proper maintenance of the systems. Our training courses are specially tailored to the needs of different user groups:

  • Operators and production personnel

  • Maintenance personnel and programmers

  • Maintenance personnel and service technicians

In addition, training courses are available specifically for system integrators. Beyond product content, these courses cover the planning of an AMR solution – from the creation of the safety concept and fleet calculation to the design of the mechanical, electrical and software interfaces.


→ KUKA College: Training courses for AMR applications

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