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AMR Connectivity Solutions for Efficient Automation

Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) must operate in complex, dynamic environments, which require efficient power management, seamless wireless communication and high-speed data processing with minimal latency. To withstand harsh industrial conditions, these systems also demand rugged, reliable connectivity to achieve consistent performance. Solutions from Molex include on-board processor systems for real-time data processing, high-power busbars for enhanced battery management, rugged connectors for precise sensor integration and advanced RF technology for dependable wireless communication in demanding environments.

Connectivity Opportunities for Improved AMR Design

To operate productively and efficiently within an industrial environment, designers must ensure AMRs have long battery life, maintain reliable data connectivity and achieve seamless wireless performance. Advanced, critical features like radar, cameras and LiDAR sensors can introduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) and signal integrity issues, further complicating operational efficiency.

Overcoming these design challenges requires solutions that optimize power management, data transfer and wireless communication to support reliable performance in complex settings. Efficient connectivity and robust designs are essential to help AMRs operate across vast factory floors or in harsh environments without compromising functionality.

Connectivity solutions from Molex are designed to address these needs with innovative technologies that enhance power efficiency, ensure consistent signal integrity and enable reliable wireless communication. By offering a comprehensive range of advanced connectivity systems, Molex helps AMRs achieve higher productivity, reliability and adaptability in industrial applications.

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On-Board Processor

Real-time data processing is critical for on-board processors to handle navigation commands and obstacle detection. This requires a seamless fusion of sensor data from LiDAR, cameras and ultrasonic sensors. Advanced connectivity solutions from Molex include industrial-grade network interface cards and physical communication interfaces. These are designed for harsh environments and capable of resisting cyber threats, helping AMRs deliver accurate environmental understanding in real time.

Integrated Safety

  Processor Supply Voltage Communication Speed Network Connection Operating Temperature
Network Interface Cards 64 MHz NIOS processor PCIe NICs: 3.3V, PCU NICs: 24V DC network, 3.3/5V bus, PC/104 NICs: 5V 1Mbaud (CAN only), DeviceNet 125, 250,
500Kbaud		 DeviceNet (5 pin) PCIe and PCU NICs: 0 to +60°C, PC/104 NICs: 0 to +55°C
  AMR Functional Safety Protocol Interfaces Hardware Compatibility Code Footprint (approx.) Industrial Certification Standards Supported Operating System (OS)
Industrial SDKs CIP Safety
Ethernet/IP
Scanner (Originator)/Adapter (Target)		 32- or 64-bit microprocessors
(SDK is independent of hardware)		 200kB (adapter) or 400kB (scanner) CIP Safety 2.22/CT20ES
IEC 61508
TÜV Certified
Pre-certified ANSI C source code
 No OS required
(SDK is independent of OS)

Sensors Data Processing

  Pitch Circuits Current Wire Gauge Voltage (max.) Operating Temperature
Mini-Fit Connectors 4.20mm 4 to 18 Up to 20.5A 28 to 14 AWG 600 V Up to 105°C
SlimStack Connectors 0.35 to 1.25mm 6 to 240 Up to 15.0A   100 V Up to 125°C
FFC / FPC Connectors 0.20 to 2.00mm 2 to 120 0.5A   50 V Up to +150°C
Premo-Flex FFC Jumper 0.25 to 1.25mm 2 to 120 0.2A to 1.4A   60V -40° to +105°C

On-Board Processor Internal Connectivity

 

 Pitch Circuits Current Configuration
DuraClik Connectors 2.00mm 2 to 15 3.0A Wire-to-board

Battery Management

Optimizing energy consumption and extending the battery life cycle are essential to maximizing operating time, reducing charging frequency and minimizing replacement costs. High-power busbars, low-resistance high-current interconnect systems and rugged cell-to-battery pack connectors from Molex offer compact, lightweight designs, promoting maximum efficiency and extended lifespan.

Power Connectivity

  Pitch Circuits Current Material Configuration
Busbars     30.0 to 200.0A Copper, tin, Mylar, Nomex, rigid plastic and FR4 Flexible grounding jumpers, flexible busbars, rigid busbars and laminated busbars
Sentrality Pin and Socket 3.40, 6.00, 8.00, 1.00mm Single Up to 350.0A Gold, silver Board-to-board, Busbar-to-board, Busbar-to-busbar, Power

Battery Pack Connectors

  Pitch Circuits Current Configuration Sealed
DuraClik Connectors 2.00mm 2 to 15 3.0A Wire-to-board  
Mini50 Connectors 0.50, 1.20mm 4 to 38 4.0A Wire-to-board, Wire-to-wire X

FFC / FPC Connectors

 0.20 to 2.00mm 2 to 120 Up to 2.0A Wire-to-board  

AMR Sensors

Reliable navigation and obstacle detection require sensors to deliver precise and accurate data. Connector systems from Molex are designed to deliver low latency, exceptional signal integrity and rugged durability, ensuring optimal sensor performance in demanding environments.

AMR LiDAR Connectivity

  Pitch Circuit or Ports Current Data Speed Sealed Configuration Cable Type
HSAutoLink Connectors 1.27mm 6, 12 1.5A 13Gbps X Wire-to-board Twisted Pair

AMR Camera Connectivity 

  Circuit or Ports Data Speed  Sealed Configuration Cable Type
High-Speed FAKRA Mini (HFM) Coaxial Cable Single, dual, quad, custom ports 20Gbps X Wire-to-board, Wire-to-wire Coax

AMR Sensors Connectivity 

  Pitch Circuit or Ports Current Sealed Configuration
MX64 Connectors 2.54mm 2 to 8 11.0A X Wire-to-board
DuraClik Connectors 2.00mm 2 to 15 3.0A X Wire-to-board

AMR Wireless Communication

Effective wireless communication allows AMRs to coordinate tasks, share data and determine the safest and most efficient navigation routes. High-performance solutions reinforce signal integrity and promote seamless connectivity, even in challenging industrial environments. Solutions from Molex include comprehensive RF systems with standard and custom coaxial connectors and cable assemblies, supporting frequencies from DC to 110 GHz and offering a range of sizes from ultra-microminiature to large RF connectors.

  Connector Configuration Frequency Impedance
RF Coaxial Connectors 1.00mm Plug to 1.00mm jack,
1.00mm Narrow block end launch jack, Screw attachment		 Up to 110 GHz 50 Ohm
  Assembly Configuration Impedance Cable Type
RF Cable Assemblies FAKRA Straight jack, Bulkhead front mount, FAKRA Jack, FAKRA II Straight plug, FAKRA Straight plug, FAKRA SMB Straight plug and others 50 Ohm RG-174 Cable, RG-178 Cable, RG-316 Cable, LMR 240 Cable, Dacar 462 Cable