MiR launches new autonomous mobile forklift-type robot

Mobile Industrial Robots (MiR) has launched its MiR1200 Pallet Jack autonomous mobile robot (AMR).

With advanced artificial intelligence (AI) pallet detection, powered by NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin, the MiR1200 Pallet Jack uses 3D vision to identify pallets and do pick up and pallet delivery with “unprecedented precision”, says the company.

Mads Paulin, vice president of R&D at MiR, says: “The MiR1200 Pallet Jack is our latest effort to push the boundaries in autonomous material handling.

“We believe that the built-in AI detection system is a significant improvement over older detection technologies.

“Our approach will reduce pick-and-place cycle times, deliver best-in-class pick accuracy and allow us to continuously deliver advanced, AI-based functionality and value to our customers.”

Designed to integrate seamlessly into existing MiR AMR fleets and interoperate with MiR’s deck load AMRs, the MiR1200 Pallet Jack is a perfect match for large-scale enterprise customers who typically operate more complex workflows with larger fleets and multiple sites.

These customers can now turn to MiR as a one-stop shop for material handling.

Jean-Pierre Hathout, president of MiR, says: “As the latest addition to MiR’s wide range of AMRs, the MiR1200 Pallet Jack adds a new application area to our existing solutions for transportation scenarios from small to heavy loads, pallet transportation, and more.

“All robots can be seamlessly managed and integrated via our industry leading fleet management tool, MiR Fleet, and monitored and optimized using MiR Insights.”

Thanks to its 3D vision capabilities, the MiR1200 Pallet Jack addresses the challenges many enterprises face with resource-intensive material handling, especially in complex environments that make automation difficult and where automation is needed due to increasing labor shortage.

The MiR1200 Pallet Jack can dynamically modify its route to avoid obstacles such as loose objects on the floor or overhead obstacles.

It processes a large number of cameras and LiDAR data in real time by accelerating the full stack on the GPU and several other processors built into the NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin module.

The MiR1200 Pallet Jack’s ability to navigate effortlessly in tight spaces with minimal changes to the existing infrastructure makes it the perfect fit for optimizing logistics efficiency and ensuring timely delivery of pallets.

Hathout says: “With MiR1200 Pallet Jack, we have developed a rugged AMR pallet jack that will work in existing customer sites that present unique environmental challenges for automation.

“In the design of this robot, we have leveraged the accumulated expertise in software from MiR, and high-payload AMRs that are the result of MiR’s 2022 merger with AutoGuide, another Teradyne-owned company.

“In addition, the MiR1200 Pallet Jacks’ robust tricycle drive system is developed through a partnership with Logitrans, which has 80+ years of experience with material handling.”

The MiR1200 Pallet Jack is not only about speed and efficiency. Safety remains a top priority.

Hathout says: “Safety is in the DNA of every MiR product.

“The MiR1200 Pallet Jack complies with the latest product safety standards, including ISO3691-4. The fusion of multiple sensor platforms and top-tier safety features provides a much safer alternative to traditional forklifts, pallet trucks and manual pallet jacks.”

Key features of the MiR1200 Pallet Jack include:

• AI-based detection powered by NVIDIA: Trained on +1.2 million real and synthetic images, this solution enables fast and precise pallet detection.
• High battery-capacity and fast charging: With a charging ratio of 1:14 and the possibility of opportunity charging, the MiR1200 Pallet Jack is ideal for 24/7 workflows.
• Compliance with ISO safety standards: Designed to comply with the latest product standards for AMR products, including ISO 3691-4, ensuring safety in various environments.
• 3D sensor for obstacle detection: LiDAR and 3D vision are fused for precise detection of obstacles on the floor, overhead and around the Pallet Jack, ensuring precise and secure pallet placement.
• Robust mobility: IP 52 rating and rugged wheels enable mobility over multiple challenging surfaces.