Robotics Glossary: Key Terms Explained
From AMR to floor-scrubbing robots – the most important robotics terms explained neutrally and practically.
Robotics is full of technical terms that are often used loosely. This glossary explains the key terms vendor-independently and practically – so you can make an informed decision about which technology fits your task.
Terms A to Z
- Humanoid robot
- A robot with a human-like body – torso, two arms, usually bipedal. Designed for tasks and interaction in environments built for humans (reception, service, variable manual tasks).
- Quadruped robot (four-legged)
- A four-legged walking robot with high terrain capability. It handles stairs, steps and uneven ground and is especially suited to inspection, security and monitoring in difficult environments.
- Cobot (collaborative robot)
- An industrial robot designed to work directly alongside people. Based on a risk assessment it operates without a separating safety fence and shares the workspace with employees.
- AMR (Autonomous Mobile Robot)
- A self-driving robot that navigates freely and dynamically using LiDAR and cameras, avoids obstacles on its own and needs no fixed track. It adapts flexibly to changing layouts.
- AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle)
- A guided transport vehicle that follows fixed routes (magnetic or inductive guide lines, markers). Strong for heavy loads and stable, repetitive workflows.
- AMR vs. AGV
- The core difference: AGVs run on fixed routes and guide lines, AMRs navigate freely and dynamically. AMRs can be reprogrammed without structural changes and are more flexible with layout changes; AGVs excel at high, constant loads.
- Scrubber robot
- An autonomous cleaning robot that scrubs and immediately vacuums up the dirty water in a single pass. It navigates autonomously via LiDAR and 3D camera and is typically used in car parks, logistics halls, hospitals and supermarkets.
- Robot-as-a-Service (RaaS)
- An operator model where the robot is provided for a monthly rental or usage fee (OPEX instead of CAPEX). Maintenance, updates and support are often included – lowering the barrier to automation.
- System integrator
- A partner who selects, adapts and integrates suitable robot systems into existing processes and systems (e.g. ERP, WMS, machine control). A vendor-independent integrator is tied to no brand and recommends the best system in each case.
Related solutions and guides
Cleaning robots for commercial floor cleaningIndustrial & logistics robots for production and intralogisticsBuy Robots for EnterprisesHumanoid Robots Compared
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