Waypoint Robotics Launches MAV3K Autonomous Mobile Robot

April 8, 2019 – Chicago, IL  

Waypoint Robotics announces the release of the MAV3K autonomous mobile robot (AMR). The MAV3K can carry a payload up to 3000 lbs (1,119.7 kg) throughout your manufacturing facility or warehouse. The MAV3K features a holonomic (omnidirection) drivetrain with mecanum style wheels. This drivetrain configuration enables MAV3K to be nimble in its operation and able to move along the floor in any direction. The MAV3K is able to  operate in applications that the other differential wheeled autonomous mobile robots, common in the market today, cannot.

Similar to the small Waypoint Vector AMR, MAV3K comes equipped with Waypoint’s easy to use Dispatcher software allowing it to be set up and autonomously operating in under 15 minutes. MAV3K also features a large capacity battery and Waypoint’s EnZone wireless charging system. This ensures that the MAV3K can charge itself at various times during its workday so that it is always ready to run.

Waypoint MAV3K Robot in warehouse

MAV3K includes dual safety rated LIDAR sensors for complete 360 degree coverage. Only a handful of AMR manufacturers are using safety rated LIDAR sensors, which include backup circuitry to ensure that the LIDAR has a failsafe output if the LIDAR was to break or generate an error. This is an important safety feature for the MAV3K, given the large carrying capacity of the MAV3K and its size.

Autonomous navigation in a large form factor

MAV3K can navigate autonomously throughout the warehouse or manufacturing facility as it move large mass cargo through the facility. With its sensors, the AMR can detect obstacles in its path and adjust as necessary to avoid hitting anything. With its omnidirectional drive capability, MAV3K can easily maneuver around things which may block its path or to approach a pickup or drop-off location.

“We are thrilled to offer the workforce a better tool to move large, heavy materials. We’ve architected our products from Day 1 with the philosophy of ‘Bobby first.’ Bobby is the worker who’s been there for years and knows the job better than anyone,” said Waypoint CEO Jason Walker. “We’ve designed MAV3K so Bobby and workers like him can send it on missions to move the heaviest materials in his factory,” he added. 

To see the MAV3K in operation this week, stop by the Waypoint Robotics booth (S3588) at the ProMAT show in Chicago, April 8-11, 2019.

mike oitzman headshot.
Written by

Mike Oitzman

Mike Oitzman is Senior Editor of WTWH's Robotics Group, cohost of The Robot Report Podcast, and founder of the Mobile Robot Guide. Oitzman is a robotics industry veteran with 25-plus years of experience at various high-tech companies in the roles of marketing, sales and product management. He can be reached at moitzman@wtwhmedia.com.