ABB Robotics completes Visual SLAM AMR range with autonomous forklift launch

ABB Robotics has expanded its Autonomous Mobile Robotics (AMR) portfolio with the introduction of the Flexley Stack F712, an autonomous forklift that completes a comprehensive ecosystem of Visual SLAM-based mobile robots. This launch allows for the integration of forklifts, tugs, and movers on a single platform, addressing critical labor shortages and the need for increased throughput in intralogistics. By utilizing AI-enabled vision technology, the new system offers a scalable solution for complex material handling and warehouse operations across various industrial sectors.

The Flexley Stack F712 is designed to handle demanding material-handling tasks, including end-of-line storage and warehouse operations, with a specific focus on industries like automotive manufacturing. Capable of carrying loads up to 2,000 kg and reaching heights of 8.5 meters, the F712 is versatile enough to manage open and closed pallets, containers, and racks. Marc Segura, president of ABB Robotics, noted that the forklift is part of the company’s journey toward more autonomous and versatile robotics (AVR), combining advanced vision and intelligence to help businesses process greater volumes despite limited labor availability.

A standout feature of the F712 is its use of Visual SLAM technology for mapping and navigation, which removes the requirement for physical infrastructure such as markers or reflectors. This AI-driven approach allows the robot to make autonomous decisions in dynamic environments while maintaining a positional accuracy of ±10 mm. When paired with ABB’s AMR Studio software, the system can reduce commissioning times by up to 20 percent, providing a flexible solution that can adapt immediately to changes in warehouse or production floor layouts.

Safety and interoperability are central to the new launch, with the F712 certified to the latest ISO and ANSI standards and capable of operating at speeds up to 1.7 m/s while loaded. The forklift is VDA5050 compatible, ensuring it can work seamlessly alongside ABB’s existing Flexley Tug and Flexley Mover units within a unified project. The accompanying AMR Studio software suite offers a no-code, drag-and-drop interface for rapid setup, fleet coordination, and real-time visualization, enabling a scalable turnkey automation environment for complex industrial applications.