AGV’s and AMR’s: Smart Automation for Industry and Logistics

Industrial automation has evolved rapidly, and AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles) and AMRs (Autonomous Mobile Robots) are innovative solutions that optimize logistics and production processes. According to industry studies, the global market for AGVs and AMRs is growing at a rate of approximately 18% and 30% per year, respectively, driven by the need for automation and logistical efficiency. These technologies enable more efficient, safer, and more flexible operations, boosting companies’ competitiveness.

What are AGVs and AMRs?

AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles)

AGVs are autonomous vehicles designed for the transportation of materials within industrial and logistics environments. They operate by following fixed routes defined by magnetic tapes, buried magnetic strips, or sensors. Some models can combine different navigation methods for greater flexibility.

AMRs (Autonomous Mobile Robots)
AMRs represent a technological evolution of AGVs, as they use autonomous navigation based on SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) technology, allowing them to move freely without the need for fixed infrastructure. This technology enables real-time adaptation to changes in the environment.

What are they used for?

AGVs and AMRs are widely used in industry and logistics to optimize material flow, reduce operational costs, and increase productivity.

Benefits and Impact on Operational Efficiency

  • Productivity Increase: Studies indicate that the adoption of AGVs and AMRs can boost productivity by up to 10-20%.
  • Reduction in Operational Costs: Due to fewer human errors and optimized processes, studies show that operational costs can be reduced by up to 20%.
  • Greater Operational Efficiency: They enable 24/7 operations without breaks, maximizing both logistical and productive efficiency.
  • Error Reduction and Increased Safety: There are fewer risks for workers and greater precision in executing repetitive tasks.

How do they work?

AGVs use different navigation methods, typically based on fixed infrastructure, such as:

  1. Physical tracks – Mechanical guidance with predefined paths.
  2. Magnetic tapes – Sensors detect magnetic adhesive tapes placed on the floor.
  3. Embedded floor wires – A wire in the ground emits an electric/magnetic field to guide the vehicle.
  4. Marker-based navigation (QR codes or RFID) – Sensors read tags placed along the path to determine the route.
  5. Laser navigation (Fixed LIDAR) – Laser sensors identify reflectors in the environment to calculate position.

AMRs use more advanced technology for autonomous navigation, without requiring fixed infrastructure:

  1. SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) – Mapping and localization algorithms create a real-time map of the environment.
  2. LiDAR sensors and 3D cameras – Enable navigation based on environmental reading and obstacle detection.
  3. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning – Dynamically adjust routes and improve efficiency over time.
  4. Sensor fusion (IMU, odometry, and computer vision) – Ensures precise movement and pattern recognition in the environment.

Types of AGVs and AMRs

Most common AGV’s

  • Unit Load AGVs – Transport individual loads, such as boxes or components, on a platform.
  • Tugger AGVs – Pull carts or trailers in logistics trains.
  • Forklift AGVs – Automatically move and stack pallets.
  • Custom Transport AGVs – Designed for specific loads, such as drums or metal sheets. For example, in the paper industry, they are used to move large paper rolls.

Most common AMR’s

  • AMRs for small item transport – Used in warehouses and production lines for agile movement of small parts.
  • AMRs for pallet handling – An alternative to forklift AGVs, offering more flexible and adaptable operation.
  • Collaborative AMRs – Work alongside human operators, often guided by artificial intelligence for dynamic route optimization.
  • Picking AMRs – Integrated with warehouse management systems, assisting in order picking and collection.

The brand we represent: Kivnon

Kivnon, the brand represented by iDR, offers innovative solutions for various applications. Its AGV and AMR models are:

  • Mouse: K10 One-Way (Unidirectional) and K11 Two-Way (Bidirectional)
  • Twister: K05 (360° rotational)
  • Tractor: K32 (Unidirectional, logistic train)
  • Forklift:
    • K55B: Pallet forklift for European pallets (Bidirectional)
    • K55A: Pallet forklift for American pallets (Bidirectional)

The navigation technologies it uses are:

  • AGVs: Magnetic tape surface navigation or magnetic strips embedded in the floor.
  • AMRs: Autonomous navigation based on SLAM, with no need for fixed infrastructure.

Kivnon is one of the global leaders in mobile automation solutions, providing AGVs and AMRs for industries such as automotive, food, electronics, and logistics.

Reference Clients:

Among the clients that trust Kivnon are major industry names: Jaguar, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Opel, Seat, Volkswagen, Scania, Navistar, Nissan, Ford, Faurecia, ABB, Inditex, Desigual, Gestamp, Lear, Idilia Foods, and others.

For the user/workers:

  • Improve ergonomics and posture
  • Prevent musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)
  • Reduce fatigue and the risk of injuries

For companies:

  • Increase productivity and accuracy
  • Reduce absenteeism due to injuries
  • Provide better working conditions and help retain talent

AGVs and AMRs are essential solutions for optimizing processes, reducing costs, and increasing operational efficiency. Don’t fall behind in the digital transformation of logistics! Contact us and discover how Kivnon’s AGVs and AMRs can take your company to a new level of automation and efficiency.

Sources:

PRNEWSWIRE.com

KIVNON.com

Sinova.com

Sinkar.com

February 11, 2025