The first version of the new software from Mobile Industrial Robots is now available for both individual robots and entire fleet systems. According to the manufacturer, the user interface is simpler and more intuitive. As a result, the following functions, for example, can be carried out more quickly: Planning and re-planning navigation around obstacles, (including optimized response to anything moving nearby, such as other robots, forklifts), as well as more efficient navigation within large buildings and smooth switching of mapping data between different floors or production halls.

The ability to navigate efficiently while avoiding bottlenecks is crucial to the successful use of AMR - and the new features of the software are designed to ensure that the MiR robots perform at their best.

"From our many years of experience with numerous customers, it has become clear not only that the software is the key to automation, but also which new functions offer the greatest added value," says Søren E. Nielsen, President of MiR. "This new software stack provides a powerful foundation for making the most of our AMRs - both now and in the future, when we need to adapt to dynamic environments and further technological advances. From faster and smoother robot deployment planning to ensuring even higher levels of cybersecurity and integration with a production facility's many systems, we will continue to improve the performance of our robots. In doing so, we are helping companies to maintain and increase their productivity."

Improved user-friendliness and cyber security

To improve user-friendliness, the user interface of the new MiR software has been redesigned. It now has different user levels and can be set up via a desktop computer, smartphone and tablet. Users can access various dashboards or summon the robots with a single click.

"We want to make it easy for companies to get started with automation," says Nielsen. "In less than an hour, simple tasks can be created for the robot via our new interface. For more complex jobs that may require advanced functions and settings, the user interface still allows users to operate the robots easily and intuitively. Combined with the increased efficiency from the robots, users will quickly realize that the total cost of ownership for our AMRs is low."

In addition, this new software demonstrates MiR's increased focus on cybersecurity with new optimizations in accordance with IEC 62443, the international series of standards for cybersecurity in industrial automation, including software code signing, advanced robot authentication and updating the robot operating system.