3D camera augmented Autonomous Mobile Robot for intralogistics purposes

Abstract

AMRs (Autonomous Mobile Robots) are driverless vehicles programmed to perform a variety of tasks and are often used to transport goods or materials. However, there can be several problems with the driving performance of this type of vehicle. Safety in the workplace is important everywhere, but there are some areas that are particularly exposed to safety risks. Limited visibility is the main cause of accidents at work. Yet, robots can map these dangerous areas with their sensors. We will present a mobile robotic sensor development that can be implemented to increase the security of robotic warehouses. Testing is necessary in order to check the quality of existing defects in safety elements before delivery and to carry out a risk assessment. Our goal was to add a safety element to the robot to prevent the most common problem, namely it is colliding with a forklift truck, hitting objects outside the sensor planes or hanging in. Based on our experience with robots over the years, this has been a big challenge, as we have had several such collisions. Therefore, we selected and installed a modern 3D camera system and tested its compliance with the safety requirements and the difference between the safety level of a robot without 3D sensor (Alpha) and a robot with 3D sensor (Beta), based on the knowledge of the installed camera.