AMR vs. AGV

Is a Mobile Robot or Guided Vehicle Right for You?

Compare Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) and Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) as solutions for automating material handling tasks in industries like manufacturing and warehousing. Learn more about their differences in terms of flexibility, navigation, obstacle avoidance, and cost, helping businesses determine which is better suited for their needs.

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Mesh Automation > Robotic Palletizing Systems > AMR vs. AGV: Is a Automated Mobile Robot or Automated Guided Vehicle Right for You?

Autonomous Mobile Robots vs. Automated Guided Vehicles


Key Differences Between AMRs and AGVs

The differences between AMRs and AGVs indicate their advantages and disadvantages. There are a lot of them, so we have broken them down into differences that relate to their core capabilities, operational considerations, and safety and cost.


Application Suitability

  • AGVs are ideal for repetitive tasks in controlled, predictable environments like warehouses or factories. They excel at moving heavy loads and bulk materials along fixed routes.
  • AMRs are well-suited for dynamic environments with changing layouts. They excel at picking and placing items or delivering materials to workstations.

Navigation Capabilities

  • AGVs rely on physical guides like wires or magnetic strips for navigation, limiting flexibility. This requires infrastructure changes to your existing facility layout. 
  • AMRs use advanced sensors, cameras, LiDAR and VSLAM to create maps and navigate independently. This enables them to adapt to obstacles or changes in the layout.

Obstacle Avoidance

  • AGVs stop when encountering obstacles, requiring human intervention or reprogramming. 
  • AMRs can detect and avoid obstacles, rerouting to continue their tasks without stopping.

Scalability and Extensibility

  • AMRs often offer greater scalability due to their flexibility and ease of deployment. Additionally, AMRs are highly extensible. They can be easily programmed for new tasks and routes, making them adaptable to changing warehouse layouts or workflows.
  • AGVs might require infrastructure changes for expansion. They also have limited extensibility. Modifying AGV paths often requires physical infrastructure changes, making them less adaptable.

Integration Including Configurations and Networking

  • AMRs excel in integrating with other automation systems due to their advanced technology and software. They offer greater configurability, allowing them to be easily programmed to interact with various existing systems like Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) or conveyor lines. Additionally, their robust networking capabilities enable seamless communication and data exchange across the entire automation network. 
  • AGVs have limited integration features due to their simpler control systems. While some AGV systems offer optional upgrades for more advanced communication protocols or integration with specific technologies, these upgrades can be expensive. These limitations can make it more challenging to configure AGVs to work seamlessly within a complex automation environment.

Deployment

  • AGV installation typically requires modifying the environment to lay down physical guides using wires, magnetic tape, and so on. This can be disruptive and time-consuming. 
  • AMRs are easier to deploy because they don’t require infrastructure changes, which minimizes disruption of existing operations.

Flexibility

  • AGVs offer limited flexibility due to reliance on fixed paths. They follow a predetermined path and can’t adapt to obstacles or changes in the environment. They usually require reprogramming if the layout changes.
  • AMRs offer greater flexibility to adapt to changing environments and tasks. They can operate in dynamic environments, navigate around obstacles, and reroute if necessary.

Responsiveness

  • AGVs can’t react to changes in real-time. 
  • AMRs can adapt to dynamic situations and respond to rerouting needs.

Safety

  • AGVs are generally safe if properly installed and regularly maintained. 
  • AMRs have advanced sensors that contribute to enhanced safety by allowing for dynamic obstacle avoidance.

Initial Cost

  • AGVs are typically less costly due to simpler technology. They tend to be less expensive initially due to their simpler technology. It’s important to realize that while the base price of an AGV might be lower than an AMR, the infrastructure modifications can add significant upfront costs.
  • AMRs typically have a higher upfront cost due to their more advanced navigation systems. While the base price of an AMR might be higher than an AGV, the lack of infrastructure costs can make them more cost-effective in the long run.

Maintenance

  • AGVs generally require less maintenance as they follow fixed paths and have simpler technology. 
  • AMRs may require more maintenance due to their complex sensors and potential need for software updates.

AMR vs. AGV FAQ



What safety features do AMRs and AGVs have?

Typically, they both come equipped with emergency stop buttons that allow for immediate shutdown in case of emergencies and also safety scanners that detect obstacles in their path and trigger stopping or rerouting maneuvers.
Bumper sensors detect physical contact and trigger stopping or reversing, and speed sensors maintain safe operating speeds.
AMRs may also have additional features like 3D cameras and software-based safety zones that trigger warnings or stop the robot if it deviates.

How long do AMR and AGV batteries last?

Battery life depends on factors like payload capacity, travel distance, and workload. Generally, lithium-ion batteries are the most common type used in AMRs and AGVs due to their longer lifespan and faster charging times. They can last for 8-16 hours on a single charge. Lead-acid batteries are less expensive but have a shorter lifespan (around 3-5 years) and require longer charging times.

What kind of maintenance do AMRs and AGVs require?

Both AMRs and AGVs require regular preventive maintenance, including:
– Battery charging and health checks
– Sensor cleaning and calibration
– Software updates
– Inspection for wear and tear on wheels, tracks, and other components.

AMRs may require slightly more maintenance due to their more complex navigation systems. However, their ability to self-diagnose issues and avoid collisions can potentially reduce overall maintenance needs.

Can AMRs and AGVs work together in a warehouse?

Yes, AMRs and AGVs can be used together in a warehouse environment. This can be a particularly effective strategy for facilities with a mix of predictable and dynamic workflows.
AGVs can efficiently handle repetitive tasks along fixed paths in dedicated zones. AMRs can navigate around obstacles and adapt to changing conditions, which is ideal for flexible material handling and dynamic warehouses.