Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Get quick answers about our Thedush's robotic products and solutions
How AGVs and AMRs help for Industry 4.0?
Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) play a vital role in enabling Industry 4.0 by bringing smart automation, connectivity, and data-driven efficiency to material handling and intralogistics.
AGVs and AMRs are key enablers of Industry 4.0 by automating material handling, collecting real-time data, integrating with smart factory systems (like IoT and ERP), and adapting to dynamic production needs. They boost efficiency, safety, and flexibility while supporting predictive maintenance and scalable operations.
What is an Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR)?
An AMR is a type of robot that can understand and move through its environment without being physically guided or tracked by wires or markers. It uses sensors, maps, and onboard intelligence to make real-time decisions.
How are AMRs different from AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles)?
AGVs follow fixed paths (e.g., magnetic strips or tracks), while AMRs can dynamically plan routes based on the environment. AMRs are more flexible and adaptable to changing layouts.
What industries use AMRs?
AMRs are used in: Warehousing and logistics, Manufacturing, Healthcare (e.g., hospital delivery robots), Retail, e-commerce and Agriculture.
What tasks can AMRs perform?
Typical tasks include: Delivery within industrial environments (e.g., manufacturing shop floors, product packing and storage sections, warehouses)
How do AMRs navigate?
AMRs use: SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) LIDAR and cameras Infrared sensors GPS (in outdoor scenarios).
Are AMRs safe to work around humans?
Yes, most AMRs are equipped with obstacle detection and avoidance systems. They comply with safety standards like ISO 3691-4 to ensure safe operation in shared environments.
Do AMRs require internet connectivity?
Not always. While connectivity helps with fleet management and remote updates, many AMRs can operate autonomously offline using onboard systems.
What kind of maintenance do AMRs need?
AMRs require regular maintenance including: Battery checks, Sensor calibration, Software updates, Mechanical inspections.
Can AMRs operate 24/7?
Yes, with sufficient charging infrastructure (like battery swapping / auto-docking stations), AMRs can run continuously, AMRs can run continuously.
What are the benefits of using AMRs?
Reduced labor costs Increased productivity and consistency Enhanced workplace safety Scalability and adaptability to new workflows.
How long does it take to deploy AMRs?
Depending on the environment type – deployment can range from a few days to several weeks, including mapping, integration, and training.
Are AMRs expensive?
Initial cost may be felt high, but ROI can be achieved within 1–2 years easily due to labor savings and efficiency gains.
What is an Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV)?
An AGV is a mobile robot used in industrial applications to transport materials or goods along predefined paths using guidance systems like magnetic strips, wires, or lasers.
How do AGVs navigate?
AGVs follow fixed routes using: Magnetic tape or wire Optical sensors (lines or QR codes) Laser guidance In some advanced cases, inertial or vision-based navigation.
What types of AGVs are there?
Common types include: Tow vehicles (tuggers) Unit load carriers Pallet trucks Forklift AGVs Assembly line AGVs.
What types on which industries are AGVs commonly used?f AGVs are there?
AGVs are widely used in: Automotive manufacturing Warehousing and distribution Food and beverage Pharmaceuticals Electronics.
What are the main advantages of using AGVs?
Reduced labor costs, Improved safety, Increased accuracy and productivity, Consistent workflow and reduced damage to goods.
What are the limitations of AGVs?
Limited flexibility (fixed routes) Higher installation cost for complex layouts Difficult to adapt quickly to layout changes.
How are AGVs controlled and monitored?
AGVs are typically managed via a central fleet management software that controls traffic, tasks, and routing to avoid collisions and optimize performance.
Are AGVs safe to operate around people?
Yes. Most AGVs include safety features such as: Emergency stop buttons Obstacle detection sensors Audible/visual warnings Speed limiters.
How do AGVs compare to AMRs (Autonomous Mobile Robots)?
AGVs follow fixed paths, while AMRs dynamically navigate environments. AMRs are generally more flexible but can be more complex to implement.
Do AGVs require infrastructure changes?
Yes. Depending on the guidance system, you may need to install: Magnetic strips or wires in the floor Reflective targets for laser guidance Dedicated charging stations.
Can AGVs be integrated with existing WMS or ERP systems?
Yes. AGVs can be integrated into warehouse management and enterprise resource planning systems for seamless automation.
What is the typical ROI period for AGVs?
ROI varies, but many companies see returns in 1–3 years through labor savings and efficiency gains.
How long does it take to deploy AGVs?
Deployment time depends on environment type, but basic AGV systems can be made up and running within a few days to several weeks.
What kind of maintenance do AGVs need?
Routine maintenance includes: Battery management, Sensor cleaning/calibrations, Wheel and motor inspections, Software updates.
Can AGVs operate 24/7?
Yes. With appropriate charging or battery-swapping infrastructure, AGVs can support round-the-clock operations.
