C h a p t e r 4 | C o n n e c t i v i t y
synchronized and processed close to the
edge. Transmitting this sensor data with
low jitter and minimal latency requires
both high-throughput interfaces and
robust time synchronization. Ethernet
with Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN)
support enables precise temporal
coordination, which facilitates features
such as multi-sensor SLAM and fleet-
level coordination.
Network reliability is also paramount.
For example, AMRs operating in
industrial environments will experience
electromagnetic interference, network
congestion, and physical obstructions
that could compromise connectivity. To
solve this, redundant network topologies
and adaptive routing protocols can
maintain service continuity even in
degraded conditions.
Finally, edge computing enhances
AMR connectivity by localizing data
processing and reducing the need for
constant backhaul. Processing sensor
data at the edge reduces latency,
minimizes bandwidth use, and improves
privacy for sensitive environments like
hospitals or industrial R&D labs. AMRs
equipped with embedded compute can
make autonomous decisions locally while
selectively transmitting high-value data
to centralized systems for analytics, fleet
optimization, or remote diagnostics.
onsemi supports reliable and low-latency
AMR communication with
• Automotive-grade CAN transceivers
designed for high EMC performance
• 10BASE-T1S Ethernet PHYs that enable
high-speed, multi-drop networking over
a single twisted pair
• Interface components compatible with
TSN-based Ethernet
AMR operations rely on wired and
wireless networks to enable real-
time data exchange between the
robot and its control system. We
used a real-time communication
framework to provide the
messaging infrastructure and
support seamless application-to-
application communication."
Manoj Kumar S
Sr. Robotics System Engineer, Universal Robots
20
Engineering the Future: The Sensors and Systems Powering Modern Mobile Robots
