Avoid Costly Mistakes: How to Choose the Right AMR Chassis from 4 Proven Types
As automated material handling and unmanned logistics continue to gain traction, Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) are being widely adopted in factories, warehouses, hospitals, and retail environments. But before launching an AMR project, there’s one key technical decision you can’t overlook: Which type of AMR chassis is best for your application?
In this article, we’ll break down the four most common AMR base types, comparing their structures, advantages, limitations, and use cases to help you choose the right foundation for your mobile robot.
1. Differential Drive Chassis
How It Works:
This chassis uses two powered wheels and one or two passive caster wheels. Directional movement is controlled by adjusting the speed of the two drive wheels.
Pros:
- Simple mechanical design, low cost
- Mature, easy-to-implement control algorithms
- Ideal for light-duty, small-scale AMR projects
Cons:
- Large turning radius, poor maneuverability in tight spaces
- Limited traction and ground adaptability
- Cannot rotate in place
Typical Use Cases:
E-commerce warehouse robots, basic AGVs, entry-level logistics AMRs
2. Omnidirectional Wheel Chassis (Mecanum or Omni Wheels)
How It Works:
Uses angled rollers on the wheels to enable movement in any direction—sideways, diagonally, or rotating on the spot.
Pros:
- Excellent mobility and flexibility
- Can rotate and move laterally in narrow spaces
- Perfect for precise control and multi-robot coordination
Cons:
- Limited to smooth, flat surfaces
- Higher cost compared to differential drives
- Complex control system requires advanced development skills
Typical Use Cases:
Smart factories, indoor collaborative AMRs, production line docking robots
3. Steerable Drive Chassis (Differential + Steering Wheels)
How It Works:
Combines the stability of differential drive with a steerable wheel to improve control and handling.
Pros:
- High load capacity, suitable for heavy-duty tasks
- Smooth movement, ideal for medium-speed operations
- Maneuverable in semi-tight environments
Cons:
- Moderately high cost
- More complex structure, higher maintenance requirements
- Requires flat, consistent surfaces
Typical Use Cases:
Heavy-duty AMRs, autonomous forklifts, tow robots
4. Four-Wheel Independent Drive (4WD)
How It Works:
Each wheel has its own motor and steering system. This allows for complex movements and precise control in all directions.
Pros:
- True omnidirectional movement
- Handles ramps and uneven ground
- Supports high-precision navigation and obstacle avoidance
Cons:
- Highest cost among all types
- Complex to develop and maintain
- May be overkill for simple indoor use cases
Typical Use Cases:
Outdoor AMRs, hospital delivery robots, high-end custom robotics
How to Choose: 3-Step Decision Guide
- Evaluate Load and Terrain
- Light load / smooth floors → Differential drive
- Heavy load / ramps / outdoors → 4WD independent drive
- Assess Space and Maneuverability Needs
- Tight spaces / lateral movement → Omnidirectional
- Open layouts / defined paths → Differential or steerable drive
- Consider Budget and Maintenance
- Budget-sensitive projects → Differential drive
- High-performance or complex environments → Omnidirectional or 4WD
Final Thoughts: The Right Chassis Is Half the Battle
Choosing the right AMR base is a critical early decision that affects performance, safety, and project ROI. It determines how fast and stable your robot moves, whether it can handle slopes or elevators, and how easily it adapts to real-world environments.
👉 Article source: chassisworld.com
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