Taiwanese industrial computing firm Advantech is working with robotics company Mov.AI to streamline the creation of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs).

The aim is to provideg robot manufacturers and integrators access to industrial computing technology and a software platform for building, deploying and running intelligent robots.

Advantech will contribute its competencies in hardware design and manufacturing, while Mov.AI will contribute its expertise in ROS-based software. 

The Covid-19 pandemic and ongoing labour shortages have created a surge in demand for AMRs. According to Interact Analysis, shipments of mobile robots increased 53% in 2022 and are projected to grow at an annual rate of approximately 50% until 2027, resulting in four million installed units. Furthermore, revenue is expected to grow by 30 to 40% annually between 2022 and 2027. The potential for further expansion is significant, as only 14% of warehouses had adopted at least one order fulfilment AMR as of 2021.

Advantech’s rugged hardware can be integrated with Mov.AI’s robotics engine platform, making it easier to develop and deploy AMRs for businesses. This collaboration addresses the growing need for faster time-to-value, flexibility, improved efficiency and higher productivity in manufacturing and logistics.

The Mov.AI ROS-based platform provides AMR manufacturers and automation integrators with the enterprise-grade software and tools for automation, including navigation, localisation and calibration. The platform has a visual integrated development environment (IDE) based on ROS, as well as off-the-shelf algorithms and integrations. Additionally, the platform offers interoperable fleet management, flexible interfaces with warehouse environments such as ERP and WMS, and cyber-security compliance.

“Advantech is excited to cooperate with Mov.AI and we look forward to providing an advanced state-of-the-art AGV and AMR in the robotics segment worldwide,” said David Jen, associate vice president at Advantech. 

Advantech offers edge computers that are optimised for computing performance, functionality and ease of deployment. These computers are powered by Intel processors and offer IO flexibility to deliver efficiency in multiple vertical markets, including automation, manufacturing, logistics, retail and transportation. 

One such product is the Uno-238 V2, a compact IoT edge computer with a 12th-generation Intel Core i processor and DDR5 sodimm for high-speed multi-task computing and data transfer. This device inherits the compact form factor and IO design of its predecessor, making it suitable for most factory scenarios. 

It has a fanless and rugged design for industrial environments, and it can withstand an operating temperature of -20 to +60˚C. Can bus is incorporated and it enables seamless and zero-latency data exchange as well as a stable connection between edge devices and the cloud. 

Another product, Advantech’s Mic-770 V3, is a compact fanless system powered by a 12th-generation Intel Core i socket-type processor with the Intel R680E chipset. It provides high-performance computing, multiple IO interfaces and flexible expandability with the integration of i-Modules and iDoor technology. 

This computer provides machine vision and autonomous navigation capabilities for various machine automation applications, including wafer box handling, material handling and robotic arm operations. 

“The growing demand for automation creates a need for secure interoperable systems that can be easily deployed and easily adapted to changing business needs,” said Motti Kushnir, CEO of Mov.AI. “We are excited about the collaboration with Advantech.”