Advantages of deploying Autonomous Robots include increased productivity and efficiency – performing repetitive and/or time-consuming tasks, thus human workers can focus on creative and value-added activities.
Smart robots are transforming industrial automation by combining mobility, perception, connectivity and artificial intelligence into autonomous systems capable of navigating dynamic environments and collaborating with humans. Applications range from autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) to robotic arms, delivery robots and advanced humanoid platforms. Unlike conventional industrial robots that operate in fixed, controlled environments, smart robots rely on sensor fusion, machine vision and AI-based decision-making to understand their surroundings, avoid obstacles and optimize navigation.
The heart of a smart robot is a combination of power electronics, motion control and embedded processing. Most mobile robots operate from 12 V to 48 V battery systems and require efficient power-conversion architectures consisting of battery-management systems, DC/DC converters and protection circuits. Motion is typically driven by brushless DC (BLDC) motors controlled through three-phase inverters using low- and medium-voltage MOSFETs, gate drivers and position sensors. Smart protection devices such as eFuses and protected MOSFETs safeguard critical power rails against overcurrent, overvoltage and thermal events, improving reliability and reducing downtime.
Autonomous operation depends heavily on advanced sensing and perception technologies. Modern platforms combine LiDAR, machine vision, depth sensing and other sensors to create an accurate understanding of the environment. Sensor fusion combines data from multiple sensing modalities to improve reliability, accuracy and functional safety. Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) algorithms use these data streams to build maps, track obstacles and plan navigation paths in real time. Connectivity is also evolving, with 10BASE-T1S Industrial Ethernet and Bluetooth® increasingly replacing legacy communication methods.
AI is advancing robotics with enhanced object recognition, environmental classification, and adaptive decision-making. Improved computing, energy efficiency, and sensor integration enable robots to function in varied environments. Designers are optimizing battery efficiency, sensing accuracy, and system integration with intelligent modules and software. AI-driven robotics are transforming logistics, manufacturing, healthcare, and service industries.
Safety is a fundamental requirement for robots operating near people. Depending on the application, smart robotics systems commonly need to comply with standards such as ISO 10218 for industrial robots, ISO/TS 15066 for collaborative robots, IEC 61508 for functional safety, ISO 13849 for safety-related control systems and IEC 60204-1 for electrical equipment of machines. In addition, LiDAR and vision systems must incorporate eye-safety and fail-safe mechanisms to ensure safe operation in human-centric environments.
AMR introductory video highlights autonomous mobile robot-enabled solutions from individual components to subsystem designs.
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Read Application Note and learn about the NCS32100 rotary position sensor, and its advantages in industrial applications compared to other types of position sensors.
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Learn more about vision systems in robotics. onsemi offers a variety of solutions developed to enhance robotic image sensing capabilities.
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Read White Paper and learn how 10BASE-T1S Ethernet is set to replace traditional interfaces, while being faster and only using single twisted pair.
Machine vision equips machines with the ability to "see" and understand the visual world. An important building block of any autonomous robotics solution.
White Paper introduces the Hyperlux ID family which revolutionizes iToF, extending distance measurements both indoors/outdoors.
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Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) typically follow predefined routes, while Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) use sensors, SLAM and AI algorithms to dynamically navigate and adapt to changing environments.
BLDC motors provide high efficiency, precise speed control, low maintenance requirements and excellent power density, making them ideal for mobile platforms and robotic actuators.
Sensor fusion combines information from LiDAR, cameras, ultrasonic sensors and other inputs to improve accuracy, redundancy and reliability. This enables safer and more dependable operation under varying conditions.
Major challenges include battery life, power efficiency, sensing accuracy, thermal management, functional safety, real-time communications and reliable operation in dynamic environments.
Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) enables robots to create maps of unknown environments while determining their own position. It is essential for autonomous navigation, obstacle avoidance and path planning.
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