Mobile robot applies AI to allow first-time users to programme systems more easily

ABB’s new trolley robot uses AI-based Visual SLAM for its navigation, with new AMR Studio software for easier configuration when it comes to routes and tasks, as well as speedier commissioning.

The Flexley Tug T702 autonomous mobile robot (AMR) is designed to allow first-time robot users to easily programme and operate an entire fleet, says ABB, thanks to this unprecedented combination of AI-driven navigation technology and software. Because it is simpler to configure, commissioning times are said to be reduced by up to 20%. 

President of ABB Robotics Marc Segura links the development directly to the acquisition of Sevensense in January of this year. “This combination of mobile robotics and leading AI-powered navigation technology brings unmatched intralogistics flexibility and scalability for ABB’s customers, in an environment that is shifting from linear production to dynamic manufacturing networks,” he said. 

ABB names consumer goods and logistics as two of the sectors where the AMR T702 could provide a good fit, and where the environment in busy warehouses or fulfilment centres is constantly changing. 

Combining AI and 3D vision, Visual SLAM (Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping) technology is said to allow AMRs to make intelligent decisions, particularly when differentiating between fixed and mobile objects in dynamic environments. This means the robot maps its surroundings, rather than relying on complex and time-consuming programming to set routes. The fleet will even update and share maps, meaning that new AMRs can be easily added without long commissioning periods. 

Meanwhile, ABB’s newly-launched AMR Studio software enables users, even with minimal or no programming knowledge, to create and configure routes and tasks for the robots. The software guides users through easy steps to set up an entire AMR fleet, says the company. As a part of this, the Fleet Manager software uses algorithms to ensure orders are distributed efficiently. The system provides real-time visualisation and data monitoring. 

ABB quotes annual growth rates for mobile robots of 20% up to 2026, by which time this market will be worth $9.5 billion, according to its figures. 

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