Omron Adept Technologies to launch AI-equipped Mobile Robot LD

Nov. 15, 2016 – Omron Adept Technologies (OAT) has announced it will release two variations of the artificial intelligence-equipped Mobile Robot LD Platform, offering “flexible, easily programmable and automated transportation,” in an effort to help humans and machines collaborate in manufacturing.

The Mobile Robot LD is a carrier robot equipped with OAT’s AI technology, which allows it to transport materials to a target location while calculating the optimal route and avoiding humans and obstacles, describes the company. The robot series is suited for a range of indoor facilities, including automotive parts manufacturing, electronics, foods and pharmaceuticals, as well as warehouses and research facilities. The January 2017 release will include two variations: a customizable OEM type and an all-in-one transporter type with an attached cart. The OEM type allows the user to optimize the robot for the intended usage environment by attaching a customized cabinet or conveyor. The company says the Mobile Robot LD will help liberate human workers from the simple, monotonous and exhausting labour of carrying items, giving them the freedom to engage in more creative work. The platform features a built-in laser scanner to detect its environment, and maps space available for movement with the Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) technology. The robot compares the map and laser scanner input to determine its position, and plots a route for transporting up to 130 kg of cargo.