Cameras for AMRs and AGVs in Warehouse Logistics

You achieve greater efficiency and flexibility in your dynamic warehouse environment by optimizing the flow of goods.
Our cameras make mobile robots (AMRs) and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) more reliable in warehouse logistics. They deliver 2D or 3D data to support navigation, environmental perception, obstacle detection, docking, identification, and process control.

Industrial suitability
Use of standard interfaces, IP protection classes (up to IP67, depending on the model), reliable, and durable
Suitable for mobile platforms
Depending on the product series, lightweight and compact designs are possible. For flexible mounting positions and limited installation spaces
Simple integration
Established interfaces and the Basler software environment support integration into existing systems, including in combination with other Basler products
Support and long-term availability
Long product lifecycles, timely product discontinuations, and recommendations for successor products

New

Our 3D stereo mini camera: Ideal for use in AMRs and AGVs

The Stereo mini provides 3D data for working ranges starting at approximately 0.25 m and extending to 3 m, 6 m, or 10 m, depending on the model. Thanks to its compact design (starting at 90 mm x 25 mm x 30 mm) and light weight (starting at 97 g), it integrates well into mobile platforms and tight installation spaces. Depending on the model, different interfaces and working ranges are available.

To the Stereo mini models

Typical applications of cameras for AMRs and AGVs

Navigation is the primary function of cameras in AMRs and AGVs: they capture the environment, detect objects and obstacles, and thus enable autonomous movement in dynamic warehouse environments. Based on this, additional functions such as measurement, load-carrier handling, counting, or pick-and-place can be combined—depending on the specific application—without the need for additional sensors.

1. Basic application: Navigation& obstacle detection

AMRs use sensors, maps, and software to navigate dynamic environments. AGVs typically follow more predetermined paths and often use vision systems as a supplement, for example, for obstacle detection, docking, or pallet positioning.

3D cameras acquire depth information, which SLAM algorithms (SLAM—Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) use to create precise maps of the environment. Obstacles such as other vehicles are detected and localized in real time—a prerequisite for collision-free navigation. This enables autonomous guided vehicles to operate safely and efficiently even in dynamic environments.

For more information on obstacle detection, see our use case, “Obstacle Detection by AMRs in Warehouse Logistics Using the Stereo mini.”

2. Additional applications that can be combined

In addition to the main tasks of navigation and obstacle detection, combine other applications that your AMR or AGV can handle. These applications are flexibly expandable and can be combined with one another, since the same camera already provides environmental and object data—without the need for additional hardware.

Measuring a package

3D cameras can be used to measure the volume of objects. They can also be used to determine fill levels, check for completeness, and detect misaligned or deformed loads.

Cargo handling

Cameras facilitate the precise detection of pallets and load carriers, as well as accurate positioning and alignment during approach. This makes automatic loading and unloading processes more efficient, safer, and reliable.

Counting & code reading

Cameras make it possible to count objects for automated inventory control. At the same time, they can read barcodes or other codes. This allows each counted quantity to be directly matched to the corresponding product.

Mobile pick-and-place

Cameras provide AMRs and AGVs with the necessary location and position data. They detect objects, determine their position, and calculate suitable grasping points. This allows for the reliable automation of picking, transfer, and handling processes.

What sets cameras in AMRs and AGVs apart in warehouse logistics

When using vision systems with AMRs and AGVs in warehouse logistics, precise image processing, reliable integration, and flexible adaptation to dynamic environments are essential.

Precise localization — SLAM: Using cameras, a mobile robot can simultaneously create a map of its environment and precisely determine its own position within it.

Precise real-time localization and navigation (SLAM)

AMRs and AGVs require precise location data to reliably navigate their environment. Detailed three-dimensional information about the environment is necessary for localization, mapping, and environmental perception.

Our 3D cameras provide the following capabilities:

3D depth data, ideal as input for SLAM and navigation algorithms

Identifying people, obstacles, and new warehouse designs

Recognizing dynamic environments: People, obstacles, or new warehouse layouts

In the warehouse, robots and transport systems encounter an environment that can change rapidly. Complex warehouse areas therefore require intelligent and flexible process control.

Our 3D cameras provide data in real time and can readjust even under changing conditions. They

support the navigation of mobile robots,
provide reliable depth data for collision avoidance, thereby ensuring smooth operations and
also capture semantic and contextual information such as colors, signs, and object shapes.

Varying lighting conditions in the warehouse

Reliable image processing under varying lighting conditions (indoor and outdoor)

Variable lighting conditions pose a particular challenge in logistics applications—both indoors and outdoors. To help overcome these challenges, our 3D cameras offer:

High dynamic range and flexible exposure settings
Global shutter, HDR, and robust sensor architecture for continuous operation in warehouses
A variety of camera technologies are available, depending on lighting, working distance, surfaces, reflections, and installation conditions

Easy integration into existing AMR and AGV systems

In practice, integration into the system is also a significant cost factor. To minimize effort and costs, Basler cameras provide the following support:

Standardized industrial interfaces such as USB 3.0, GigE, or GMSL
Flexible and well-established software integration—this reduces the integration effort and complexity
Up to IP67 protection class

When is 3D appropriate, and when is 2D sufficient?

3D technology is relevant for AMRs and AGVs when distance, height, volume, position, free space, or spatial relationships need to be detected—for example, to support obstacle detection and collision avoidance.
2D technology is ideal for reading barcodes, labels, textures, or simple image information.

Basic principle

Depth information from two camera perspectives

Basic principle

Distance measurement using time-of-flight

Basic principle

2D image data, no depth measurement

Detailed information

Typical strengths

Spatial scene detection: obstacles, pallets, docking, free space check

Typical strengths

Fast depth detection even on homogeneous surfaces; volume& and fill levels

Typical strengths

High resolution; detection of codes, labels, text, color, and contours

AMR/AGV applications

Navigation, SLAM, obstacle detection, docking, pallet detection

AMR/AGV applications

Dimensioning, fill level detection, presence detection, large objects/areas

AMR/AGV applications

Barcode/DMC, OCR, label verification, presence tracking

Navigation

Highly relevant—primary source of 3D data for perception

Navigation

Depending on the application& and system architecture

Navigation

Only using markers, codes, and visual features

Dimensioning

Possible, depending on the working distance& accuracy

Dimensioning

Strong field of application (volume, fill level, position)

Dimensioning

No, only with additional sensors

Code recognition

RGB/2D can be used as a supplement

Code recognition

Strong field of application

Please note

Texture, lighting, reflections, field of view, computational complexity

Please note

Reflections, ambient light, active sensor interference, working distance

Please note

Lighting, sharpness, focus, reading distance, lack of depth information

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Our cameras for AMRs& and AGVs

Find the right camera for your application or use ourVision System Configuratorto configure your system.

FAQ: Answers to questions about cameras for AMRs and AGVs

AMRs navigate more flexibly and adjust their routes more dynamically. AGVs typically follow more predetermined paths. Cameras can support both systems, for example, in environmental perception, obstacle detection, docking, identification, and load monitoring.

It depends on the situation. 3D cameras provide additional image and depth data for perception and automation functions. Whether they replace or supplement other sensors depends on the application, system architecture, and safety requirements.

2D is suitable for codes, labels, OCR, color, contours, and visual identification. 3D becomes relevant when distance, height, position, volume, free space, or spatial relationships need to be measured.

⇒ For more information, read our knowledge article "Spoiled for Choice: 2D or 3D Camera?"

Stereovision is particularly well-suited for:

Spatial scene capture
Obstacle detection
Docking
Pallet and load carrier detection
Data source for SLAM/navigation algorithms

ToF is particularly well-suited for:

Fast depth images
Volume measurement
Fill level detection
Position detection
Especially in larger scenes or on uniform surfaces

The specific choice depends on the working distance, surface, lighting, reflections, accuracy requirements, and installation conditions.

Relevant criteria include:

Working distance
Field of view
Resolution
Depth accuracy
Lighting
Surfaces
Movement
Installation position
Interface
Protection class
Computing platform
Software integration and safety concept for the overall system

Examples of camera applications for AMRs& and AGVs in warehouse logistics

In numerous applications, cameras support AMRs and AGVs to make logistics processes more efficient and safer. Find out more about our solutions.

Obstacle detection by AMRs in warehouse logistics using the Stereo mini
To ensure the safe navigation of AMRs in dynamic and harsh warehouse environments, reliable obstacle detection is essential early on. The compact and rugged Stereo mini camera delivers up-to-date, precise depth data.
Dimensioning in warehouse automation & intralogistics
Choosing the right 3D vision solution starts with the working distance. Depending on the distance between the camera and the object, different 3D technologies and camera systems are best suited for precisely and efficiently measuring goods, containers, or cargo.