From AGV to AMR:
The rapid transition of logistics

 Be it new technologies, market influences such as economic crises, or exogenous shocks such as natural disasters: the only constant factor in today's supply chains is dynamism. To adapt their supply chains to their environment and establish resilient value creation systems, companies today require innovative automation concepts at the system level. Where traditional automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are still in use, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) may soon take over: in the future, robots of this new category will be able to operate and interact faster, more cost-effectively, and with greater precision. The technology will particularly advance in areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and 5G communication. In projects with industry, Fraunhofer IML deems it essential to design robots and select technologies that can be seamlessly integrated into existing logistics and IT infrastructures. Employee acceptance is another critical aspect: employees must be trained to utilize the new technology and be able to accept the robot as a colleague.

Fraunhofer IML has been cognizant of the challenges facing the logistics industry for many years and is well-acquainted with the requirements and needs. For example, the institute has been hosting and organizing the “FTS Fachtagung” (AGV Symposium) for over a decade. The event was initiated over 30 years ago by the “VDI-Fachausschuss FTS” (VDI AGV Technical Committee), which, in collaboration with the Forum-FTS, also serves as the technical sponsor of the conference. The industry conference brings together potential and future operators, manufacturers, component suppliers, planners, consultants from the intralogistics sector, and research institutes.

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Fraunhofer IML develops advanced robotic-based solutions for the entire internal material flow – from autonomous transport systems to intelligent warehouse technology and automated picking systems. The combination of mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and computer science enables the realization of highly precise, adaptive and secure systems that can be seamlessly integrated into existing processes. The systems use state-of-the-art navigation solutions that ensure precise vehicle guidance and flexible, adaptive control architectures. This results in increased operational reliability, optimized flow rates and a precise integration into your existing processes. Comprehensive risk and hazard analyses as well as the development of individual safety concepts ensure smooth and safe operation. The solutions are based on current technical standards and many years of experience in the implementation of complex, automated guided vehicle systems that are specially tailored to the requirements of modern logistics processes.

The range of services offered by Fraunhofer IML in the field of robotics encompasses advice on automation in warehousing and production, development and optimization of corresponding vehicles, and integration of robotic systems. Further training is included as well.