
As part of the increasing automation of production and industrial environments, automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) play a crucial role in optimizing production and logistics processes. They help companies to increase their efficiency and remain competitive. Although both technologies aim to make internal material flows more efficient, there are significant differences between them. In this article, we highlight these differences and explain how both systems can be used to meet different requirements.
What are automated guided vehicles?
Driverless transport systems, also known as Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are floor-bound vehicles with their own traction drive.
These systems follow predefined routes that are guided by various methods such as floor markings, magnetic strips or lasers.
AGVs are often used in production and warehouse environments to automate the transportation of materials such as raw materials, semi-finished or finished products, tools and pallets.
An AGV consists of several components:
- Automated guided vehicles (AGVs): These vehicles form the basis of the system and can automatically transport materials by carrying or pulling loads.
- Route control/fleet management: Central software for planning, coordinating, monitoring and optimizing transport routes and vehicle movements.
- Navigation and sensor technology: Various sensors and navigation systems ensure precise positioning and help the vehicles to follow their route safely.
- Infrastructure: This includes charging stations, lane guidance and safety equipment that support the AGV.
- Communication: Automated guided vehicles use both wired and wireless data transmission to ensure smooth communication between the vehicles and the central control system.
What are autonomous mobile robots?
They use advanced technologies such as SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) to orient themselves in their environment, detect and avoid obstacles and communicate with other AMRs.
The autonomous mobile forklifts from 4am Robotics in action.
AMRs are flexible and can be used for a variety of tasks, including:
- Material transportation: As with AGVs, AMRs can transport materials between different production or storage areas, but using autonomous navigation instead of rigid guidelines.
- Cooperation with humans: AMR can work in environments where they interact closely with human workers and complete tasks together.
- Dynamic task adaptation: AMRs can flexibly and quickly change their tasks and routes to respond to disruptions or changing requirements.
Key differences between FTS and AMR
- AGV: Follow fixed routes that are specified by external routing systems. Changes to the routes require the infrastructure to be adapted.
- AMR: Use advanced navigation systems to move autonomously in their environment. They can adapt their routes dynamically and do not require a fixed infrastructure.
Applications and industries:
Both AGVs and AMRs are used in numerous industries:- Automotive industry: The transportation of components within production lines as a modern alternative to conventional conveyor belts.
- Food industry: Automatic transportation of raw materials and finished goods to prevent contamination or for use in cold chains.
- Pharmaceutical industry: Safe transportation of medicines and raw materials, even in clean room environments.
- Logistics and warehousing: Efficient transportation of goods and storage and retrieval of goods.
The choice between AGV and AMR depends on the specific requirements and conditions of your production or warehouse environment. Both systems offer unique advantages and application possibilities. While AGVs with their firmly defined navigation and robust structure are ideal for standardized processes, AMRs impress with their flexibility and ability to adapt dynamically to changing environments without much effort.
You can also see the innovative technical capabilities of our 4am AMR solutions in these articles:
If you would like to find out more about the possibilities of our autonomous mobile robots or have specific requirements that you would like to automate, visit our product page or contact us directly.
We can help you find the best autonomous robotics solution for your needs and future-proof your business.