Anyone evaluating or implementing autonomous robots in their operations will quickly encounter technical vocabulary derived from research, which is often poorly explained. This robotics glossary summarizes the most important terms—in a way that is understandable for operations managers, facility managers, and purchasing agents who are not robotics engineers.
The terms are grouped thematically: Navigation and technology, fleet management and operation, hardware components, deployment concepts.
Navigation and technology
AMR — Autonomous Mobile Robot
An AMR navigates autonomously within its environment, without relying on fixed guide rails or magnets. It creates a map of its surroundings, plans routes, and dynamically avoids obstacles. The term distinguishes AMRs from traditional AGV/FTS systems.
AGV / FTS — Automated Guided Vehicle / Driverless Transport System
A classic transport system that travels along physical guidance systems: magnetic strips in the floor, guide wires, or optical lines. AGVs are less flexible than AMRs because changes to the travel paths require physical modifications. Still widely used in many logistics operations.
SLAM — Simultaneous Localization and Mapping
SLAM is the method by which a robot simultaneously creates a map of its environment and locates itself within it. Initially, the robot knows neither what the environment looks like nor its precise location—it deduces both in real time from sensor data. SLAM forms the basis for autonomous navigation without pre-installed infrastructure.
LiDAR — Light Detection and Ranging
LiDAR is a laser scanner that measures the distance to obstacles by emitting and receiving laser pulses. The result is a precise 2D or 3D point cloud of the environment. In autonomous robots, LiDAR is the primary sensor for obstacle detection and navigation. Most commercial AMRs use 2D LiDAR for basic navigation.
Mapping
Before a robot can drive autonomously, it must create a digital map of its surroundings. This step is called mapping. The integrator manually drives the robot through the area once, creating the map. Subsequent changes to the building (new shelves, altered room layout) require a map update.
Autonomous navigation
Autonomous navigation describes a robot's ability to independently calculate and execute its target position, route, and obstacle avoidance. It is based on SLAM, LiDAR, and path planning algorithms (e.g., A*). Autonomous navigation differs from remote control.
Obstacle Avoidance (obstacle detection and avoidance)
A robot with obstacle avoidance detects moving and stationary obstacles (people, pallets, doors) and navigates around them or waits until the path is clear. This is essential for safe operation in pedestrian areas. Typical sensors include LiDAR, ultrasound, and depth cameras (3D/depth cameras).
Geofencing
Geofencing defines virtual boundaries on the map that the robot will not cross—for example, doorways, high-traffic areas, or restricted zones. Geofencing settings are configurable via software and are part of the setup process by the integrator.
Fleet management and operation
Fleet Management
Fleet management refers to the centralized control, monitoring, and coordination of multiple robots simultaneously. Fleet management software displays the status of all devices (position, battery charge, task, errors) in real time and assigns tasks. Fleet management is recommended for two or more robots operating in the same area to prevent collisions and blockages. For example, a shopping center might operate two Gausium Phantas robots for different areas—without fleet management, both would schedule the same aisle at the same time and block each other.
Multi-Robot Coordination
When multiple robots are operating in the same area, they need to "see" each other and coordinate their routes. They communicate via the fleet management platform or directly via Wi-Fi. Without coordination, robots will block each other or take unnecessary detours.
OTA update — Over the Air Update
Over-the-air (OTA) updates allow the robot's software and firmware to be updated via a network connection, without physical access to the device. For fleet operators, this means that security patches, new features, or map updates can be deployed centrally. A stable Wi-Fi connection at the deployment location is required.
RaaS — Robot as a Service
RaaS is an operating model where you don't buy a robot, but rather rent one via a monthly subscription. This typically includes the device, maintenance, software, and support. The model conserves cash flow, avoids depreciation risks, and transfers technical responsibility to the provider. SEBOTICS RaaS is offered via the SERC model.
SLA — Service Level Agreement
A Service Level Agreement (SLA) contractually defines the response and repair times in the event of a robot failure, the scheduled maintenance intervals, and the guaranteed supply of spare parts. A clear SLA is essential for production-critical applications.
Uptime
Uptime describes the proportion of time a robot is operational and ready for use. A cleaning robot with 90% uptime is active for 90% of its planned operating hours. Manufacturer specifications often refer to ideal conditions—real-world values for well-maintained devices are typically lower.
Hardware and components
Docking station (charging station)
The docking station charges the robot's battery. Modern robots automatically return to the station when their battery is low, charge, and then return to operation. The placement and accessibility of the charging station are part of the installation planning.
Payload
Payload indicates the maximum load a transport robot can move. The Juno AX6113, for example, is designed for tabletop transport, while the T300 can carry up to approximately 300 kg in intralogistics. Manufacturer payload specifications apply under ideal conditions—the actual load may be lower on inclines, uneven surfaces, or with frequent acceleration/braking. Therefore, a logistics company with heavy rolling stock is more likely to use a Juno Lift or T300, while lighter transport in the hospitality sector is more common. JunoBot AX6113 takes over.
3D camera / depth camera (depth sensor)
Depth cameras measure not only color but also the distance to each pixel. They help robots detect obstacles at different heights—including objects that a 2D LiDAR scanner (which only scans a horizontal plane) would miss. Glass panes and reflective surfaces can overload depth cameras.
IMU — Inertial Measurement Unit
The IMU measures the robot's acceleration and rotation in all axes. It complements LiDAR and odometry in position determination, especially when the robot temporarily lacks good sensor data (e.g., in tight turns or during vibrations).
Odometry
Odometry is the estimation of distance traveled based on wheel rotations. It is simple and fast, but accumulates errors over time (wheel slippage, varying road surfaces). Therefore, odometry in modern AMRs is always combined with other sensors (LiDAR, IMU).
Deployment concepts and processes
Site survey
Before installing the robot, the integrator conducts a site survey. This assesses the suitability of the operating environment, examining factors such as floor surface, Wi-Fi coverage, threshold heights, narrow passages, and lighting conditions. The results are then incorporated into the recommendation of the appropriate robot model and the installation plan.
Pilot (pilot phase)
During the pilot phase, one or more robots are tested in real-world operation before a larger rollout is decided upon. The goal is to validate the deployment scenario, optimize the configuration, and assess team acceptance. SEBOTICS The pilot phase is an integral part of the rollout process.
Rollout
Rollout refers to scaling after a successful pilot project—that is, the introduction of multiple robots at one or more locations. A structured rollout includes employee training, documentation, SLA contracts, and fleet management setup.
ROI — Return on Investment
ROI indicates when the investment in a robot has paid for itself. The calculation takes into account acquisition or rental costs, saved personnel hours, operating costs, and maintenance costs. As a rule of thumb, the actual area coverage of cleaning robots is approximately 60–70% of the data sheet values—this should be factored into the ROI calculation.
Use Case
The use case describes the specific application: which robot, in which area, for which task. Different application areas (cleaning, transport, care, hospitality) have different requirements for robot model, configuration, and integration. A clear use case before purchase saves on later adaptation costs.
FAQ
What is the difference between AMR and AGV?
AGVs follow fixed pathways (magnets, lines) and are limited in their flexibility. AMRs navigate freely using maps and sensors, adapt to changes in the environment, and dynamically avoid obstacles. AMRs are more complex to set up but significantly more flexible in operation.
Can any robot use SLAM?
SLAM is standard in modern AMRs. However, cheaper or older models use simplified navigation methods without full SLAM. When buying, it's worth asking how the map is created and how stable the navigation is when the environment changes.
What do I need for fleet management?
A stable Wi-Fi infrastructure in the operational area, fleet management software (often supplied by the manufacturer), and a defined process for job distribution are required. For small fleets (1-2 robots), the manufacturer's native software is often sufficient. For larger fleets or multi-site operations, a dedicated platform is worthwhile.
How does RaaS cost compared to buying it outright?
This depends on the model, contract duration, and included services. RaaS is particularly suitable when liquidity needs to be conserved, the use case is still being tested, or full maintenance responsibility should remain with the provider. A direct comparison with purchasing can be calculated during the initial consultation.
How long does a site survey take?
For a single location with a manageable area, a site survey typically takes half a day to a full day. The effort increases with the number of floors, the complexity of the building, and the number of robots planned.
Further topics
For specific applications with real models:
If you are planning a specific use case and want to know which robot is suitable: This Initial consultation with SEBOTICS It takes 30 minutes and provides a clear assessment of the model, its use, and the investment framework.
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