Robotics and Autonomous Mobile Robots

By Contributed Article | March 18, 2025

From autonomous robots tasked with moving products throughout warehouses to automated transportation systems that handle last-mile delivery, robots are on the move in logistics systems.

By Heilind Electronics

The world of warehouse transportation is rapidly changing with the introduction of robotic transportation technologies. From autonomous robots tasked with moving products throughout warehouses to automated transportation systems that handle last-mile delivery, the automation of supply chains is having a transformative impact on logistics networks.

The continuing rise of e-commerce, the need for alternative labor solutions, visibility afforded by AI, tracking technologies and logistics integration, and the ongoing advancement of autonomous vehicle technologies opens new opportunities for the design of systems in which Industry 4.0 solutions and transportation logistics converge. These systems include many types of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), ranging from forklifts and light load transporters to pallet trucks and heavy load transporters. Robotic vehicles have advanced to the point where they are capable of taking over a significant portion of warehouse operations, working in tandem with human operators for the rapid and accurate movement of goods and materials.

Heilind Electronics stocks BNC RF connectors from Amphenol RF. Crafted with precision, this 50 Ohm connector boasts a durable brass body finished in nickel for longevity and reliability. Operating seamlessly in temperatures ranging from -65 °C to 165 °C, it guarantees consistent functionality in diverse environments.

RF connectors and cable assemblies support the edge intelligence AMRs need to do their jobs. AMRs rely on high-integrity RF connectivity for location, sensing and vision, and other critical processes necessary to their overall function. Artificial intelligence and machine learning combine to put the “autonomous” into AMRs.

In addition to being an essential part of the RF signal chain for wireless connectivity in industrial AMRs, RF connectors and cable assemblies support high-speed interconnects in the video imaging signal chain. Real-time image recognition is required in these safety-critical applications, and the signal chains must be robust and highly reliable. Connectors in AMRs need to be ruggedized for industrial and outdoor environments, compact for tight spaces, and easy to assemble to ensure an error-proof connection.

Types of Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR):

Forklift
Assembly Line
Pickers
Load Transfer
Light Load Transporters
Tuggers
Pallet Truck
Heavy Load Transporters

Image source: Amphenol RFF for Heilind Electronics

Beyond the loading dock, robotics and autonomous technologies play a role in logistics, moving product between warehouses as well as to their final destinations with last-mile delivery fleets. Partially automated semi-trucks and mid-sized fleet vehicles are already on the road, providing drivers with operator assistance and supporting safety functions. Autonomous vehicles will soon be making these runs, say experts. At the 2025 Manifest supply chain and logistics technology conference, truck manufacturers offered predictions for the rollout of fully autonomous fleets within the next two years. “Virtual drivers” would operate these vehicles with redundant components to ensure safe operation even if a key system fails, including backup systems for braking and steering as well as in the sensor suite and onboard computing.

From AMRs to semis, all these robotic systems and vehicles depend on sensors. Sensors play a pivotal role in the robotics industry, serving as the eyes and ears of automated devices and vehicles. These miniature marvels are designed to detect and measure a wide range of physical phenomena, including temperature, pressure, motion, light, and more. Essential in ensuring the functionality and efficiency of electronic systems, sensors enable devices to respond intelligently to their environment. In vehicles, sensors gather data about obstacles, other vehicles, road or warehouse conditions, and other equipment the automated vehicle may need to interact with to accomplish its goals. They can “read” signage and respond to conditions in real time with the help of AI and ML.

Key sensors used in autonomous vehicles:

Lidar offers precise 3D mapping of environmental factors, provides spatial awareness.
Radar detects speed and position, collision avoidance systems.
Cameras provide visual data recognition that integrates with AI to help the vehicle make decisions.
Position and proximity sensors assist in vehicle positioning and short-range detection tasks.

Heilind offers a variety of position and proximity sensors from manufacturers such as TE Connectivity.

Sensors are key to autonomous vehicles’ safe and accurate operation. These components are the focus of intense development as engineers work to solve challenges related to their performance in adverse conditions. Designers must be highly attuned to interoperability within systems that contain multiple manufacturer solutions and ensure reliability and longevity for sensors in critical applications. Within the predictable routines of warehouse operations, small transport vehicles operate with assurance using the sensor technology available today. Fully autonomous road vehicles are on the cusp of readiness as well. The electronic components industry continually advances sensor technology, striving for greater precision, sensitivity, and miniaturization to enhance the performance and capabilities of modern electronic devices.

Learn more about Heilind’s supply chain solutions, sensor products, and connectors for robotics and autonomous technologies.