ABB introduces the new AMR T702 robot with VSLAM to improve speed, accuracy and autonomy in navigation and logistics operations.
Integrated with ABB AMR Studio® software, new users can easily configure routes and workflows for AMR.
Using both intuitive VSLAM technology and user-friendly AMR Studio software can help reduce debugging time by up to 20%.
The ABB Flexley Tug autonomous mobile robot AMR T702 is the first ABB product to be equipped with AI VSLAM navigation technology and new AMR Studio software to help first-time robot users easily program and operate their entire mobile robot fleet. The new features simplify configuration and reduce commissioning time by up to 20%, opening up the possibility of autonomous operation of intelligent robots in the face of a severe shortage of skilled labor.
“Following the successful acquisition of Sevensense in January this year, we are very pleased to launch the first autonomous mobile robot (AMR) based on the first artificial intelligence (AI)VSLAM technology and AMR Studio software,” said Mark Sicon, global president of ABB’s robotics business unit. In the transition from linear to modular production, mobile robots combined with leading AI navigation technology bring ABB customers unparalleled internal logistics flexibility and scalability. The AMR T702 is ideal for a variety of industries such as automotive, consumer goods or logistics, especially in large, busy warehouses and distribution centers where the work environment is constantly changing.
The latest announcement follows ABB’s acquisition of Swiss startup Sevensense in January this year as it continues to expand its product range to cater to the growing mobile robot market, which is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 20% through 2026. From $5.5 billion to $9.5 billion [1].
The combination of artificial intelligence, 3D vision and VSLAM technology enables AMR to make intelligent decisions and distinguish between fixed and moving objects in dynamic environments. Using Visual Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (VSLAM) technology, robots can create a map for independent operation, reducing debugging time from weeks to days and enabling fully autonomous operation alongside humans in highly complex dynamic environments. Compared to other navigation technologies, maps can also be constantly updated, shared across the entire fleet, and provide instant expansion without interrupting operations for greater flexibility.
The new capabilities of VSLAM technology make it easy for even inexperienced users to create and configure AMR routes and job flows without programming knowledge. AMR Studio® completely simplifies the entire AMR fleet setup process, guiding users through the necessary steps from map building to task generation and system configuration.
Once the autonomous mobile robot fleet is up and running, the AMR Studio® fleet management software will help users take full control of the situation on the shop floor. The Intelligent order allocation system uses powerful algorithms to ensure efficient order allocation, while real-time visualization and data monitoring capabilities provide comprehensive traceability. The software’s flexible, user-friendly interface also makes the AMR fleet easy to expand, giving users direct control over the system to modify and add new routes.
ABB will continue to expand into other AMR product families with VSLAM navigation technology and AMR Studio® software.
