Tokyo-based Robotics Inc. (hereinafter Smart Robotics), a robot development venture, has developed two autonomous transport robot models. Specifically, the SR-AMR-SWD300 is capable of transporting 300kg loads, while the SR-AMR-SWD650 is capable of transporting 650kg loads. Smart Robotics will sell them customized with features such as automatic lift-up and towing to meet customer needs.

This time, the autonomous transport robot SR-AMR-SWD is easy to control thanks to its linkage feature with a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC). Also, it is equipped with IDEC Corporation’s ISO-compliant products to enhance safety. The price starts at 4.5 million yen (excluding tax) without customization.

Mainly, automated guided vehicles (AGVs) used between manufacturing processes such as automobiles require the installation of inductors such as magnetic tapes, and layout changes are not easy. Thus, the company expects to sell 100 units in the first year and 300 units in the third year as replacement. Also, it plans to sell additional 1,000kg heavy load transport robots by autumn 2025.

Product Details

In March 2022, Smart Robotics released a compact autonomous transport robot that can transport heavy objects up to 150kg for small and medium-sized factories, logistics warehouses, etc. This time, the new robots are for large and medium-sized manufacturing companies. One of the key features is PLC integration. Specifically, it links the PLC control program with the transport robot’s map generation, location registration, and route registration. Accordingly, operating the transport robot’s destination instructions, route settings, and status information output becomes easy.

In addition, for safety, IDEC products from a major control equipment manufacturer are used. Moreover, full support is provided, such as collision avoidance by human detection, braking system, and speed control, and an emergency stop button. In terms of operability, the company focused on easy operation, such as automatically calculating the shortest route. It simply specified the target point and passes points from a PC or smartphone. The maximum speed is 0.85m/sec for a 300kg heavy object transport robot and 0.68m/sec for a 650kg heavy object transport robot. High-precision self-position estimation ensures a stopping accuracy error of ±1cm. It can run for 8 hours on a single charge.

Outlook

Autonomous transport robots are more expensive than unmanned transport vehicles, but they do not require inductors, making it easier to change the layout. There is also no need to reinstall inductors. For this reason, we recommend them for new factories and factories where layout changes are frequent.

-25 October 2024-