Communication between Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) and lifts is vital for optimizing factory operations.
SK Robotics’ AMRs adapt to various lift types and operational requirements, navigating tiered factory floors to
ensure timely delivery of goods, boost productivity, and minimize downtime and errors.
By analyzing floor traffic, obstacles, and machinery proximity, the AMRs optimize routes for efficiency and
safety, enabling proactive risk management. Integrating AMRs with automated lift operations further
streamlines material handling, reduces manual intervention, enhances workflow, and lowers operational costs
by optimizing resource use and minimizing time.
Figure 1: L300e AMR navigating to a lift
AMR Interface to Lift System
L300 AMR offers a flexible interface to integrate with various lift systems, further enhancing its adaptability
within factory environments. One significant method involves employing an external I/O interface, which
enables the AMR to interact with lift controls effectively. The AMR communicates with the DFleet server, which
sets up the interaction with the lift system through a strong WiFi connection.
External I/O Interface:
A scenario of external I/O interface during an operation where the AMR needs to move from Level 1 to Level 2:
The AMR arrives at the lift door on Level 1, triggering a simulated button press for Level 1 while awaiting
confirmation of the door’s opening status.
Upon verification, the AMR enters the lift on Level 1 while maintaining the simulated button press.
As the lift ascends, the AMR releases the simulated button press at Level 1 and triggers a button press for
Level 2, awaiting the corresponding door open signal.
Upon reaching Level 2, the AMR exits the lift while still holding the simulated button press.
Subsequently, the AMR releases the simulated button press and proceeds with its designated operation.
Figure 2: External I/O Interface of AMR communicates with lift.
Internal I/O Interface:
This method, a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) or equivalent system is added depending on the Lift
Controller interface type to facilitate communication between the AMR and the lift system. The internal I/O
interface system serves to translate triggering signals from the DFleet server into commands compatible with
the specific protocol of the lift controller. This interface system normally requires customization as the Lift
Controller might require different interface protocol for the controls.
A scenario of internal I/O interface during an operation where the AMR needs to move from Level 1 to Level 2:
Upon reaching the lift door on Level 1, the AMR initiates a call signal to prompt the lift’s movement to Level
1, awaiting confirmation of the lift’s arrival and door open signal from the Lift Controller.
Once validated, the AMR enters the lift on Level 1 while maintaining the door open signal.
As the lift ascends, the AMR releases the door open signal at Level 1 and triggers a call signal for the lift to
proceed to Level 2, again awaiting confirmation of arrival and door open signal from the Lift Controller.
Upon reaching Level 2, the AMR exits the lift while still holding the door open signal.
Subsequently, the AMR releases the door open signal, continuing with its designated operation.
Figure 3: Internal I/O Interface of AMR communicates with lift.
Multi-level Map & Teleport
NavWiz supports multiple active maps, allowing separate setup and configuration for each floor. SK’s Teleport
feature enables AMRs to “jump” between levels by switching maps. During path planning, the system
automatically detects level changes, triggering the Teleport Task Template to handle all lift interfaces. This
simplifies configuration and allows reuse across floors.
SK’s AMRs, with advanced communication and navigation, streamline material handling and enhance
operational efficiency, demonstrating the impact of automation in modern factories.