AMR vs AGV - Key Differences Explained

AGV stands for Automated Guided Vehicle, while AMR stands for Autonomous Mobile Robot. Though both are used for material transportation, there is a fundamental difference in their operation and flexibility.

• AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle): A robot that follows fixed paths or tracks for material transportation, typically requiring infrastructure changes like magnetic tapes or wires.

• AMR (Autonomous Mobile Robot): A mobile autonomous robot that operates independently and can navigate in an uncontrolled environment without the need for fixed paths or tracks. AMR robots are known for their flexibility and are a significant part of all MiR AMR automation solutions.

Now that we understand the distinction between AGV vs. AMR, we can explore the advantages and benefits of each.

What are the advantages of AMR over AGV? 

Until recently, traditional automated guided vehicles (AGVs) were the only option for automating internal transportation tasks. AGVs are a familiar fixture in large, fixed installations where repetitive, consistent material deliveries are required, and where large initial cost outlays and long return on investment (ROI) can be tolerated.

Today, however, AGVs are being challenged by the more sophisticated, flexible, and cost-effective technology of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs). While both automated mobile robots and autonomous mobile robots transport materials, that is where the similarities end.

Understanding the advantages of AGV vs. AMR is crucial for making an informed decision about your autonomous mobile robot solutions for material transportation.

Do you need fixed routes or intelligent navigation? 

AGVs: Automated mobile robots (AGVs) operate on fixed routes guided by wires, magnetic strips, or sensors. These predefined routes require extensive installation, which can be costly and disruptive to production. AGVs have minimal onboard intelligence and follow simple programming instructions. While they can detect obstacles, they cannot navigate around them, stopping until the obstacle is removed. Modifying AGV routes involves additional costs and disruptions. 

AMRs: In contrast, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are equipped with intelligent navigation capabilities. Like the AMR robots from MiR, they use cameras, sensors, and laser scanners along with sophisticated software to construct maps and navigate autonomously. Unlike AGVs, AMRs do not rely on fixed routes. They can detect obstacles and safely maneuver around them, choosing the best alternative route. This ensures continuous material flow, optimizing productivity.

The intelligent navigation of AMR autonomous mobile robots makes them the preferred choice in AMR vs. AGV considerations for dynamic environments.

AGV vs AMR Automation: Few Applications vs. high flexibility 

AGVs: Automated guided vehicles have limited applications due to their dependency on fixed routes. Typically, an AGV is programmed to perform the same delivery task throughout its service life. Altering its function or route is not cost-effective, as it requires significant changes to the physical infrastructure. 

AMRs: On the other hand, autonomous mobile robots offer high flexibility. They can perform a variety of tasks at different locations with simple software adjustments. The missions of AMR robots can be controlled via their interface or configured through fleet control software. This software prioritizes orders and assigns tasks to mobile autonomous robots based on their position and availability.

The flexibility of AMR automation in adapting to changing environments and production requirements makes it a versatile solution in AGV vs. AMR comparisons. Additionally, AMR autonomous mobile robots allow employees to focus on high-value work, contributing to overall company success.

Traditional Business Models or Agile Businesses: Which One Are You? 

AGVs: Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) have been a staple in traditional business models where the production environment remains relatively unchanged. They operate on fixed routes and require extensive infrastructure, making them less adaptable to changes in production lines or products. This rigidity can be a limitation for businesses that need to remain agile and responsive to market demands.

AMRs: When comparing AMR vs. AGV, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are built for agility and flexibility—critical factors in modern manufacturing environments. Whether in a small or large facility, AMRs adapt effortlessly. If production cells are relocated or new processes are introduced, AMR robots can quickly re-map the site or upload a new building map. This adaptability empowers organizations to have full ownership of the AMR mobile robot and its functions.

AMR automation enables businesses in various industries to stay agile and optimize production, even in highly dynamic environments. 

Safety in AMRs vs. AGVs

When automating material transportation, safety is key. Both Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) and Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) move materials efficiently, but MiR’s AMRs are designed for safer, more flexible operations in dynamic environments.

AGVs: Fixed Routes, Limited Safety
AGVs follow predefined paths using magnetic strips or QR codes. Their safety relies on basic sensors that stop the AGV when detecting an obstacle, often requiring manual intervention to resume operation. This rigidity can lead to workflow disruptions in busy environments.

AMRs: Intelligent Safety and Navigation
MiR’s AMRs use 3D cameras, LiDAR, and AI-driven obstacle detection to navigate dynamically, avoiding obstacles without stopping. They adjust speed, reroute intelligently, and comply with ISO 3691-4 safety standards, ensuring seamless integration in high-traffic environments.

Why AMRs Are the Safer Choice

AGVs work best in static environments, but their lack of adaptability can cause delays. MiR’s AMRs continuously analyze surroundings, react in real-time, and keep operations running safely and efficiently—making them the ideal choice for modern facilities.

Expensive vs. cost-effective: Is It Worth the Investment? 

AGVs: Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) require a higher initial investment due to the need for installing wires, magnetic strips, or other guiding infrastructure. This not only increases costs but also disrupts production during installation. Additionally, the inflexibility of AGVs means that adapting them to evolving business needs can incur further expenses. 

AMRs: In contrast, autonomous mobile robots (AMRs)—despite their advanced technology—are typically a more cost-effective solution for AMR automation. Unlike AGVs, AMR robots do not require extensive modifications to the building infrastructure, making deployment faster and more affordable. AMRs can be operational in a short time, improving efficiencies almost immediately.

With lower initial costs and rapid process optimization, AMR (autonomous mobile robots) often deliver a fast return on investment—sometimes in less than six months. As businesses grow, AMR solutions can be scaled with minimal additional costs, making them the superior choice for modern, agile manufacturing environments.