Introducing the RebelMove Pro: A New Cost-Effective AMR From Igus

Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) are frequently used in facilities to move raw materials or finished products to different locations throughout the manufacturing or logistics process. They use sensors and cameras to detect objects and obstacles and to map their surroundings.

Recently, Igus released a new AMR, the RebelMove Pro, that aims to be priced low enough for a 12-month return on investment.

Igus predicts RebelMove Pro AMR users will see a return on investment in as few as 12 months. Image used courtesy of Igus

Meet the RebelMove Pro

Measuring 795 mm x 560 mm x 195 mm, the RebelMove Pro is rectangular-shaped AMR driven by a powerful electric drive system. Similar to other AMRs, the RebelMove Pro can lift, carry, and tow shelving and structures to transport products and raw materials. As the RebelMove Pro moves around the floor, its onboard LiDAR creates a 3D map of its environment. This map can then be used in fleet management software to easily program paths.

The RebelMove can travel around at a top speed of 2 m/s and carry up to 250 kg or pull up to 900 kg. These payloads allow the RebelMove Pro to be used in many different applications; it is even possible to mount a robot arm on top of the AMR for use in mobile work stations. The onboard battery is designed to last up to eight hours of operation on a single charge.

Igus offers a wide range of compatible products and accessories that enable the Rebelmove Pro to carry out a variety of tasks. Image used courtesy of Igus

Programming the RebelMove Pro

You might think that programming a fleet of AMRs is time-consuming and requires existing programming knowledge, but Igus has designed the RebelMove Pro to use its integrated sensors to create a 3D map of its surroundings at a rate of 67 m²/min. The AMR also supports fleet management software such as Fleetexecuter or Kinexon to make programming intuitive.

The RebelMove Pro can also be integrated into existing IT systems with industry-standard interfaces such as IoT, REST, and SAP. An optional I/O module can be used at the machine to request AMR presents, which makes integration more feasible for smaller manufacturing companies.

Requesting Service

There are a couple of ways to request the RebelMove Pro arrive at a destination. The simplest way is to use the optional I/O module that can be installed directly into the control cabinet of the equipment and wired into the control system. The included web-app is then used to teach the receiving position.

A more elaborate way is to use the REST API along with an edge computer. This method requires a communication path from the control system to the edge PC, which then creates a web application that calls the AMR using standard GET and POST commands over HTTP. While this method requires more programming and infrastructure, it also provides the most flexibility.

The RebelMove Pro Pick by Light is a mobile shelf unit accessory that enables the RebelMove Pro to transport vertically stacked products. Image used courtesy of Igus

AMRs in Manufacturing

As the cost of AMRs comes down, there is a higher chance they will make a greater appearance in the manufacturing environment. Injection moulding equipment can produce many parts at once, and the finished part needs to be removed from the equipment quickly. The AMR can be called underneath the equipment, and the parts are ejected into a bin located on top of the AMR. This allows for an entirely automated process of producing and removing finished parts. With the RebelMove Pro’s starting price of just over $45,000 USD, even small manufacturing facilities may be able to justify the cost.