Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR)

AMRs, or Autonomous Mobile Robots, are a self-navigating robot that can move through a factory or warehouse without the need for fixed tracks in the floor. An AMR uses onboard sensors, cameras and mapping software to allow it to understand its environment in real time. This allows it to avoid obstacles, including people, and re-route if its way is blocked. AMRs are used in warehouses, factories and distribution centres across the UK.

Why do AMRs matter?

If your facility moves material by hand, i.e. operators pushing trolleys, carrying totes, walking parts to a workstation, then that's time not spent on anything that adds value. AMRs take on that internal transport job without requiring you to redesign your building or put down any new infrastructure.

What makes AMRs particularly attractive right now is flexibility. They're not locked to a fixed route. If you add a new workstation or reconfigure a production line, the robot's map updates. You don't rip up flooring or rewire guidance systems.

They also work alongside people, which changes the risk calculation considerably. You don't need segregated zones or caged-off areas. That makes them viable in sites where a traditional AGV or conveyor-based system wouldn't be practical.

How do AMRs work?

AMRs navigate using a technique called SLAM, Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping. When you first deploy an AMR or a fleet of robots, they first map out their environment using sensors. These sensors are usually a combination of ultrasonic sensors, depth cameras and/or LiDAR (laser based distancing sensors).

As the AMR moves around the warehouse or factory it is constantly comparing what it sees (through its sensors) to the map it has stored, this allows it to plot the best route to get to its destination and re-route if something is in the way.

AMRs are controlled by fleet management software, usually from the manufacturer, though there are third-party platforms available too. The fleet management software will assign tasks to the AMR, handle charging cycles and can often integrate with warehouse management software.

For a full guide to deploying AMRs in a warehouse operation, including costs and timelines, see our warehouse AMR guide.