About AMR

Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) are advanced self-navigating machines designed to operate independently in dynamic and unstructured environments. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), advanced sensor systems, and Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM), AMRs are transforming industries, including manufacturing, logistics, warehousing, and beyond. They optimize workflows, enhance workplace safety, and drive down operational costs, providing a significant competitive advantage in today's rapidly evolving market.

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Core Technologies Powering AMR Functionality

 

Unlike traditional automated systems that rely on fixed infrastructure, AMRs possess the intelligence and adaptability to navigate complex environments autonomously. This flexibility stems from the integration of several core technologies:

• Perception and Environmental Awareness:

  • LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging): Emits laser pulses to generate high-resolution 3D maps of the surroundings, crucial for precise navigation, obstacle detection, and path planning.
  • Smart Cameras: Provide visual data for object recognition (e.g., identifying pallets, products, or humans), path identification, and contribute to SLAM algorithms.
  • Ultrasonic and Infrared Sensors: Detect nearby obstacles, suspended objects, low-clearance hazards, and changes in floor level, ensuring operational safety.
  • Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs): Measure acceleration, angular velocity, and orientation, providing crucial data for maintaining stability, accurate movement, and precise positioning.

• Navigation and Mapping

  • Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM): A cornerstone of AMR navigation, SLAM algorithms fuse data from various sensors (LiDAR, cameras, IMUs) to:
    • Localization: Determine the robot's precise position within its operating environment.
    • Mapping: Create a continuously updated map of the surrounding area, including static and dynamic elements.
  • Dynamic Path Planning: AMRs utilize advanced algorithms to calculate the most efficient routes to their destinations, considering real-time environmental changes. They can dynamically reroute to avoid obstacles, optimize travel time, and adapt to changing priorities.
  • Multi-Mode Navigation: Advanced AMRs may support multiple navigation technologies (e.g., laser-based SLAM, visual SLAM, QR code navigation) to ensure robust operation in diverse environments.

• Decision-Making and Task Execution

  • AI-Driven Intelligence: AMRs leverage AI, including machine learning and deep learning, to process sensor data, make informed decisions, and adapt to dynamic scenarios.
  • Task Optimization: Through machine learning algorithms, AMRs continuously learn from past operations, improving task efficiency, reducing errors, and optimizing workflows.
  • Autonomous Operations: AMRs are designed to execute tasks autonomously, such as picking up and transporting goods, following predefined routes, or responding to real-time commands, with minimal human intervention.

• Communication and Integration

  • Wireless Connectivity: AMRs rely on robust wireless communication (Wi-Fi, 5G) to interact with central control systems, other robots, and enterprise software like Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) or Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems.
  • Fleet Management: In large-scale deployments, AMRs are managed by centralized fleet management systems that optimize task allocation, monitor robot performance, coordinate traffic flow, and ensure seamless operation.

• Power Management

  • Intelligent Power Systems: AMRs are equipped with smart power management systems that monitor battery levels, optimize energy consumption, and autonomously navigate to charging stations when necessary, maximizing uptime and operational efficiency.

 

AMRs vs. Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs)

While both AMRs and Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) are used for material handling and automation, they differ significantly in their core capabilities:

AGVs rely on predefined routes using physical guides such as magnetic strips, wires, or optical markers. They follow fixed paths and require human intervention if an obstacle blocks their way. While effective for structured environments, AGVs lack the flexibility to adapt to changes dynamically.

AMRs, on the other hand, use AI-powered navigation and SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) to move freely without fixed paths. They can autonomously detect and avoid obstacles, optimize routes in real time, and seamlessly adapt to changing environments. This makes AMRs more scalable, cost-efficient, and suitable for dynamic warehouse and industrial applications.

The table below highlights the critical differences between AGVs and AMRs:

 

 

The Importance of AMRs in Modern Industry

Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) are revolutionizing industries by providing intelligent, adaptable, and efficient automation solutions. Their ability to navigate complex environments, make real-time decisions, and collaborate safely with human workers makes them invaluable assets in modern operations. From streamlining logistics and warehousing operations with faster order fulfillment and optimized material flow to enhancing manufacturing processes through efficient material handling and machine tending, AMRs are driving productivity and reducing operational costs. In sectors like e-commerce and healthcare, they are proving essential for rapid order processing and improving the efficiency of critical tasks. By offering customizable solutions tailored to specific industry needs, companies like Hikrobot are enabling businesses to leverage the power of advanced automation, significantly enhancing operational efficiency and maintaining a competitive edge in a dynamic market.

 

 

Hikrobot AMR Models

1. Latent Mobile Robot (LMR) Series

The Latent Mobile Robot (LMR) is a versatile and efficient AMR distinguished by its lifting mechanism. This allows it to slide under carriers like shelves and pallets, lift them, and transport them to their destination. The LMR's compact design enables it to navigate tight spaces and choose shorter paths when unloaded, significantly enhancing operational efficiency.

 

Key Features and Capabilities:

• Lifting Mechanism: Enables the LMR to lift and transport carriers, making it ideal for handling goods on shelves, pallets, or other platforms.
• Optimized Navigation: When unloaded, the LMR can navigate through narrow gaps between equipment, minimizing travel distance and improving turnover rates.
• Versatile Applications: Primarily used for transporting goods on carriers but can also interface with machines, conveyor lines, and other automated equipment for material handling.
• Payload Capacity: Capable of meeting load requirements ranging from 0 to 1500kg.
• Navigation Options:
  • 2D Code Navigation: Standard version supports navigation using 2D codes.
  • SLAM Navigation: SLAM version offers seamless switching between 2D code, laser SLAM, and visual navigation modes, providing flexibility in different environments.
• Wide-Angle Design: Features a 260° wide-angle design for broader laser navigation coverage and enhanced obstacle avoidance.
• CE Compliance: CE models comply with all relevant CE directives for safety and performance.

Optional Configurations and Customization:

The LMR series offers a range of optional configurations to meet specific customer needs:

 

 

Standard Configuration: The LMR is built on Hikrobot's fourth-generation technology platform and supports both 2D code and SLAM navigation as standard. It offers various protection configuration options to meet diverse customer requirements.

2. Forklift Mobile Robot (FMR) Series

The Forklift Mobile Robot (FMR) is designed for automated transportation and handling of standard pallets. The FMR series includes various models capable of omnidirectional movement, stacking, carrying, and other specialized tasks.

 

 

Key Features and Capabilities:

• Pallet Handling: Specifically designed for the automated transport of standard pallets.
• Lifting, Rotating, and Lowering: Can lift, rotate, and lower loads up to 1600 kg.
• Customizable Configurations: Offers customizable fork and gantry configurations to meet specific application needs.
• High Precision: Achieves millimeter-level accuracy using laser and vision-based SLAM, along with downward-looking navigation for uninterrupted operation.
• Automated Pallet Detection: Automatically detects pallets, recognizes offsets, and identifies storage locations, ensuring efficient and accurate handling.
• Comprehensive Safety: Equipped with 360° safety features, including laser, infrared, and emergency-stop systems.
• Smart Power Management: Features intelligent power management with automatic charging and self-return capabilities for continuous operation.
• Wireless Connectivity: Utilizes Wi-Fi connectivity for real-time communication and control.

 

Multiple Series for Different Needs:

• Omnidirectional Series: Unique in the industry, offering omnidirectional movement for tight spaces and complex maneuvers. Load capacity from 300kg to 1400kg. Supports skew, arc, and traverse movements.
• Stacking Series: Designed for stacking operations with lifting heights customizable up to 4.5m and load capacity from 1000kg to 3000kg. Features a slim body design for narrow aisle operation.
• Carrying Series: Focuses on efficient transportation with speeds up to 2m/s. Load capacity ranges from 1000kg to 3000kg. Features environmental contour navigation and supports texture navigation.
• Forward/Counterweight Series: Designed for indoor carrying with various pallet types. Compatible with forward and counterweight modules. Offers strong scalability and attachment interfaces for non-standard carrier customization.

 

 

3. Conveyor Mobile Robot (CMR) Series

The Conveyor Mobile Robot (CMR) is a versatile AMR designed for a wide range of material transfer applications. The CMR series offers various models, including conveyor & transmission, traction, lifting, and coating series, to address diverse operational needs.

Key Features and Capabilities:

• High Customization: Offers high customization capabilities to meet the specific requirements of different material transfer scenarios.
• Automated Transfer: Designed for automated transferring of goods in various settings.

Series Variety:

• Conveyor & Transmission Series: These robots are based on standard chassis and equipped with upper-level assemblies for docking with various equipment. They support a wide range of load capacities (15kg to 1.5t) and multiple navigation modes (2D barcode, L-SLAM, V-SLAM, tape). They also feature high-precision docking capabilities and options for omnidirectional driving, making them suitable for diverse material handling tasks.
• Traction Series: These robots are capable of pulling multiple racks with a single AMR, featuring automatic hook mechanisms. They offer load capacities from 500kg to 1.5t and support various navigation modes. With a compact body and small turning radius, they are well-suited for navigating tight spaces and offer multi-safety protection features.
• Lifting Series: These robots utilize various lifting structures combined with execution mechanisms like rollers, cantilevers, and clamping arms. They can be docked with machines or tools of different heights, depths, and types, making them ideal for complex transfer tasks. They support high-precision docking (up to ±2mm accuracy), multiple navigation modes, and offer a maximum running speed of 1.2 m/s.

Max Speed: Ranges from 1.2 m/s to 1.5 m/s (depending on the model), ensuring efficient material transport.

 

4. Carton Transfer Unit (CTU)

The Carton Transfer Unit (CTU) excels in the transportation and storage of single or multiple totes (boxes or containers). It is particularly well-suited for high-density storage and efficient picking operations.

Key Features and Capabilities:

• Tote Handling: Designed for the efficient transport and storage of single or multiple totes.
• Precise Delivery: Ensures precise delivery and retrieval of totes to and from designated locations.
• High-Density Storage: Ideal for multi-level deep storage scenarios and operations in narrow aisles.
• Improved Picking Efficiency: Optimizes picking efficiency in environments with high tote handling demands.

 

Multiple Series for Different Needs:

• Clamping C Series: This series adapts to various carrier types (totes, cartons) and heights (0.3m to 10m), offering high storage rates and efficient circulation. It features the FlashStation for rapid docking of up to 8 boxes at a time, intelligent WMS algorithms for optimized storage strategies, and V-SLAM navigation for high-precision visual navigation without coding.

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• Lifting T Series: This series is suitable for specialized carriers like trays in the 3C industry, lines and tools in manufacturing, and battery magazines in the new energy industry. It offers high adaptability, efficient docking, and multiple safety features, including telescopic obstacle avoidance detection and material deviation detection, for human-machine mixed traffic environments. It supports loads up to 100kg per box.

 

• Composite M Series: This series is designed for the 3C industry, featuring omnidirectional movement (panning, diagonal, and arc motion). It supports the customization of various execution structures (clamping, lifting, telescopic forks) and offers high-precision docking (mm level). It's suitable for docking with upper and lower plate stackers and lineside buffering scenarios, transferring PCB frames of various sizes.

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• FlashStation ST Series: This series is designed for high-tempo material transfer, supporting up to 8 boxes per docking. It's widely used in e-commerce, shoes and clothing, automotive, and medical warehouses. The series offers simple, reliable, flexible, and scalable solutions with multi-box docking, supporting loads up to 50kg per box and work efficiency up to 800 boxes per hour.

 

Hikrobot AMR Models

 

 

 

AMR Applications: Transforming Industries with Intelligent Automation

Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) are driving significant advancements across diverse industries, enabling businesses to optimize operations, enhance productivity, and adapt to dynamic market demands. Their ability to navigate complex environments, make intelligent decisions, and safely collaborate with humans makes them invaluable for a wide range of applications. Hikrobot, a leading provider of AMR solutions, offers a comprehensive portfolio of robots and software systems designed to address the unique challenges of various sectors.

 

1. Circulation Logistics

The logistics industry is facing increasing pressure to improve response times, accuracy, and flexibility due to evolving customer expectations. Hikrobot's AMR solutions are tailored to meet these challenges, offering innovative approaches to warehouse automation and material handling.

Challenges:

• Fluctuating Business Volume: The need to adapt to unpredictable peaks and valleys in demand.
• Diverse Storage Needs: Handling a wide variety of goods and storage types.
• High Flexibility Requirements: Adapting to business changes and supporting scalable expansion.
• Balancing Storage Capacity and Picking Efficiency: Optimizing space utilization while maintaining fast and efficient order fulfillment.

 

Solution Highlights:

• Goods-to-Person Picking: AMRs bring goods directly to operators, increasing picking efficiency and accuracy.
• Order Consolidation: AMRs efficiently sort and consolidate orders, streamlining the fulfillment process.
• Flexible Strategy Switching: Supports various operational strategies and allows for seamless transitions between them.
• Dynamic Rack Allocation: Intelligent algorithms optimize rack placement based on SKU velocity and other factors.

 

 

Case Studies:

 

• Sunrise Smart Logistics Project: Hikrobot implemented a large-scale AMR solution for Sunrise Duty Free Co., Ltd., deploying over 300 AMRs and integrating with their warehouse management system. This solution handles approximately 150,000 order lines per day, significantly improving picking efficiency and enabling rapid response to fluctuating demand. Key benefits include a double picking bin mode for enhanced efficiency, automatic battery swapping to reduce equipment costs, and order wave optimization for improved overall performance.

 

 

• DHL Smart Logistics Project: DHL's North Asia Hub in Shanghai implemented Hikrobot's AMR solution to enhance customs inspection and goods tallying. AMRs rapidly search for and transport goods to designated workstations, increasing overall checking and searching capacity by 33%. The solution also improved space utilization by 40% and reduced manual labor intensity.

 

 

2. Automobile Manufacturing

The automotive industry is undergoing a transformation towards mass customization and increased automation. Hikrobot's AMR solutions address the specific challenges of this sector, offering flexible and adaptable automation for various stages of the production process.

Challenges:

• Increasing Labor Costs: Rising wages and a shortage of skilled workers.
• Coordinated Logistics: The need for precise and synchronized material flow in complex manufacturing environments.
• Production Safety: Minimizing risks associated with the mix of human workers and automated equipment.
• The "Last 100 Meters": Optimizing the final stages of material delivery to the production line.
• Dependence on Experience: Reducing reliance on the experience of individual logistics staff.

 

Solution Overview:

Hikrobot provides comprehensive AMR solutions for die-casting, stamping, welding, painting, assembling, and electronic component handling in the automotive industry. These solutions offer standardized scenario adaptations and support advanced customization for rapid deployment and upgrades.

 

 

Solution Highlights:

• Wide Range of Products: Offers a diverse portfolio of AMRs to suit various tasks and environments.
• Industry Experience: Extensive experience serving leading automotive companies worldwide.
• Standardized Solutions: Pre-configured solutions for common automotive manufacturing scenarios.
• Powerful System Integration: Supports large-scale scheduling of multiple vehicle types.
• Flexible Customization: Adaptable to specific production requirements and workflows.

 

Case Studies:

 

• Tianjin FAW Toyota Project: Hikrobot implemented a large-scale AMR deployment in multiple FAW Toyota factories, including over 2,000 AMRs in a single factory. This project replaced all manual forklifts and tractor-trailers, demonstrating the feasibility of large-scale AMR deployments in the automotive industry. The solution also showcased seamless AMR map switching and large-scale cluster scheduling.

 

 

• Geely Automobile Assembly: Hikrobot has deployed nearly 2,500 AMRs across multiple Geely Automobile factories and workshops. The solutions integrate with Geely's GLES system and cover various applications, including visual-based goods receiving, intelligent storage, goods-to-person picking, and unmanned delivery. Benefits include a 50% increase in workshop productivity, a 20% increase in overall efficiency, a 40% increase in small materials picking efficiency, and improved logistics management.

 

 

3. Consumer Electronics

The consumer electronics industry is characterized by rapid product cycles, stringent environmental requirements, and complex manufacturing processes. Hikrobot's AMR solutions are designed to meet these challenges, providing flexible and efficient automation for various stages of production.

Challenges:

• Stringent Environmental Requirements: Meeting strict anti-static and dustproof requirements in production environments.
• Complicated Technological Processes: Handling complex logistics flows and integrating with diverse production equipment.
• Complex Business Applications: Managing massive SKUs, ensuring accurate and timely kitting, and optimizing warehouse management.

 

Solution Overview:

Hikrobot offers customized LMRs, FMRs, and CMRs tailored to the specific processes, machines, and material types used in the consumer electronics industry. Integration with RCS-2000 and MCS enables collaborative production and seamless information flow.

 

 

Solution Highlights:

• Full-Scope Intralogistics Solutions: Addresses the entire logistics flow within consumer electronics manufacturing.
• Flexible Manufacturing Support: Adapts to fast-paced production with high-mix and low-volume requirements.
• Improved Business Management: Enhances industry-specific business processes and workflows.

 

Case Studies:

 

• Longcheer Group Huizhou / Nanchang Production Base Project: Hikrobot deployed 60 LMRs and 5 CTUs across various intralogistics applications, including raw material warehouses, SMT workshops, glue dispensing workshops, assembly workshops, and packaging workshops. The solution enables dynamic inventory management and automated delivery, significantly improving flexibility and efficiency. Benefits include a reduction in manual labor intensity, improved operational accuracy, and energy savings through light-free operation.

 

 

• Zhuhai Chongda Circuit Technology Intelligent Logistics Carrying Project: Hikrobot implemented an AMR solution across multiple stages of circuit board production, deploying over 60 AMRs. The solution integrates with various third-party equipment and the customer's MES system, enabling automation and flexibility of intralogistics. Benefits include a 30% reduction in logistics personnel, a 35% improvement in operational efficiency, and improved accuracy and efficiency in the logistics process.

 

4. Lithium Battery Manufacturing

The lithium battery industry faces challenges related to high labor costs, complex machine docking, information management, and strict environmental controls. Hikrobot's AMR solutions address these challenges by providing flexible and adaptable automation for various stages of lithium battery production.

Challenges:

• High Labor Costs: Difficulty in hiring and retaining workers due to high labor intensity.
• Difficult Machine Docking: Precise docking required for heavy rolls and specialized equipment.
• Weak Information Management: Difficulty in tracking information flow due to complex production processes.
• Strict Environmental Requirements: Meeting stringent requirements for cleanliness and material handling in certain processes.

Solution Overview:

Hikrobot offers customized high-precision LMRs, FMRs, and CMRs designed for the specific processes, machines, and materials used in lithium battery manufacturing. Integration with RCS-2000 and MCS ensures seamless collaboration and information flow.

 

 

Solution Highlights:

• Adaptable to Complex Environments: AMRs can operate in challenging production environments, including crystal pulling, slicing, cell manufacturing, and module assembly.
• Multiple Navigation Techniques: Supports VSLAM and LSLAM navigation for flexible adaptation to different environments.
• Seamless System Integration: Connects with upper-level systems and production machinery for efficient information flow.
• Integration with Automation Equipment: Integrates with elevators, conveyors, automated gates, and air shower gates.

 

Case Studies:

• Power Battery PACK Workshop: Hikrobot deployed innovative omnidirectional HMRs in a leading power battery company's PACK workshop, increasing site utilization by 30% and improving the flexibility of the PACK line. The solution also features customized carriers for different PACK package sizes and enables rapid route changes.

 

 

• Lithium Battery Cell Workshop: Hikrobot implemented AMR solutions in multiple workshops of a leading lithium battery enterprise, deploying over 400 AMRs (LMR, CMR, FMR, CTU). The project features a digital twin virtual factory for planning and optimization, high software flexibility for easy route adjustments, and powerful hardware performance with a modular design for efficient delivery and maintenance. Benefits include a 20-30% reduction in workshop staff, a 25% increase in production efficiency, and improved information management.

 

5. Photovoltaic Manufacturing

The photovoltaic industry is experiencing rapid growth, driven by increasing demand for renewable energy. Hikrobot's AMR solutions help photovoltaic manufacturers optimize their operations, improve efficiency, and reduce costs.

 

Challenges:

• Complex Operating Environment: Handling materials with varying morphologies in challenging environments.
• High Machine Docking Requirements: Precise docking with specialized equipment in slicing factories.
• High Labor Intensity: Handling bulky materials in component factories.
• High Efficiency Requirements: Meeting tight production schedules and timely delivery demands in limited spaces.

 

Solution Overview:

Hikrobot customizes AMRs for various stages of photovoltaic manufacturing, including crystal pulling, slicing, cell production, and component assembly. These solutions feature high-precision automatic material loading/unloading, optimized software scheduling, and improved operating efficiency.

 

 

Solution Highlights:

• Adaptable to Complex Environments: AMRs can operate effectively in challenging environments, including crystal pulling plants.
• Industry-Leading Navigation: Utilizes VSLAM and LSLAM navigation and 5G communication for enhanced performance.
• High-Precision Docking: Meets the precise docking requirements of various machines.
• Reduced Labor Burden: Automates material handling, reducing the need for manual labor.

 

Case Studies:

 

• A Leading Photovoltaic Cell Factory: Hikrobot implemented an AMR solution to build 50 new high-efficiency crystalline silicon cell production lines. The project automated material handling and machine docking, achieving a 99.7% production handling rate, a 20% increase in production efficiency, and a more than 50% reduction in labor costs.

 

 

• A Large-Scale Photovoltaic Module Smart Factory: Hikrobot deployed AMRs to automate material handling and loading in a photovoltaic module factory. The solution integrates with peripheral devices like automatic doors and guard gates, achieving automatic docking with machines.