The software of Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMR) for outdoor environments is one of the main fields of innovation in mobile robotics. The integration of technologies such as GPS, LiDAR, radars, cameras, and inertial sensors, along with the possibilities brought by Artificial Intelligence, enable advanced levels of autonomy in these dynamic and unstructured environments.

AI contributes, through trajectory planning algorithms, obstacle detection and avoidance, and reinforcement learning techniques, to a substantial improvement in the navigation capabilities of AMRs. This allows them not only to adapt more intelligently to unexpected situations but also to optimize their behavior based on accumulated experience.


Software advancements make mobile robots an increasingly common tool in outdoor applications, both in industrial environments and in agriculture, construction, and more.


In this article, we answer 12 questions about the RB-FIQUS, our new outdoor mobile robot. Learn about its applications, capabilities, and advantages compared to other solutions on the market.

1. WHAT SETS THE RB-FIQUS APART FROM OTHER ROBOTNIK OUTDOOR MOBILE ROBOTS?

RB-FIQUS is the only omnidirectional outdoor mobile robot with a load capacity of up to 1,000 kg available on the market.

Robotnik’s catalog includes several robots developed for outdoor operation. Within it, RB-FIQUS mainly stands out for its load capacity, maneuverability, and modularity.

    • Load capacity of up to 1,000 kg, depending on the application.
    • Omnidirectional kinematics, providing superior maneuverability.
    • Modular architecture, allowing hardware and software customization or integration of robotic arms such as the UR20 or UR30, as well as different sensors or components.
    • Electronics located on the sides, optimizing cargo space and stability during operation.
    • Robust outdoor design, with specific safety certifications for agricultural and industrial machinery.

2. WHAT TYPE OF APPLICATIONS IS THE RB-FIQUS USEFUL FOR?

RB-FIQUS is designed to work in environments where other outdoor mobile robots cannot operate with the same efficiency or load capacity. Its versatility allows it to perform various outdoor applications, such as:

    • Agricultural logistics: transportation of materials, crops, or tools across large farming areas.
    • Mobile manipulation: when combined with robotic arms, it can perform loading, unloading, or assembly tasks.
    • Defense and security support: load deployment, equipment transport, or monitoring of sensitive areas.
    • Outdoor industrial operations: transport of heavy materials between different work areas.

3. What knowledge do I need to start using the RB-FIQUS?

RB-FIQUS has been developed to make deployment as simple as possible for both robotics experts and teams with less experience. To achieve this, Robotnik robots include an advanced user interface, detailed documentation, and support from our team.

However, certain knowledge greatly facilitates its integration and commissioning:

    • Basic knowledge of ROS/ROS2 for configuration, programming, and communication between nodes.
    • Understanding of autonomous navigation and trajectory planning.
    • Familiarity with GPS, IMU, RTK-DGPS, and RGB-D cameras.
    • Knowledge of hardware and systems integration.

4. Can it share the workspace with operators?

Yes. The RB-FIQUS can safely operate in collaborative environments. It incorporates a safety package that includes two 2D safety laser scanners, a safety PLC to guarantee immediate stop in case of risk, and compliance with ISO standards specific to autonomous vehicles and agricultural machinery.

5. How does it navigate and localize outdoors?

RB-FIQUS combines different localization technologies to ensure reliable performance outdoors, even under challenging conditions:

    • SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping): for mapping and navigating unknown areas.
    • IMU and additional sensors: reinforcing navigation under low satellite signal conditions and improving motion stability on rough terrain.
    • GPS (optional) and RTK-DGPS (optional): providing high-precision localization in open fields.
    • 3D localization and navigation package (optional).

6. What is the process of purchasing an RB-FIQUS robot?

The first step is simple: just fill out a web form telling us why you need the RB-FIQUS.

From there, our team will contact you by email and, in most cases, propose a video call with one of our experts so you can explain your project in more detail.

At Robotnik, you’ll receive honest feedback: if the RB-FIQUS is the right solution, we’ll confirm it with you; if not, we’ll recommend another product that fits better.

Once the budget is agreed upon and the order is formalized, we begin manufacturing the robot on demand. This ensures that your RB-FIQUS leaves the factory with the necessary hardware and software adaptations for your specific application.

7. Can I reconfigure or reprogram the RB-FIQUS for different tasks?

Yes. RB-FIQUS is a flexible, modular robotic platform, meaning it can be adapted to different usage scenarios. This translates into two levels:

    • Modular hardware: it is possible to integrate various sensors, components, modules, robotic arms, or end-effectors to expand its capabilities, for example: trailers, specialized cameras or lasers, grippers, or welding end-effectors for the manipulator arm.
    • Modular architecture: RB-FIQUS software is based on ROS 2, allowing adjustments to behaviors, navigation routines, or specific functions depending on the application.

8. What safety standards does it comply with?

RB-FIQUS complies with international standards ensuring safety in collaborative environments:

    • ISO 18497:2018 — related to agricultural machinery.
    • ISO 3691-4 — for autonomous industrial vehicles.

9. What types of terrain can it move on?

RB-FIQUS is designed to operate in demanding outdoor environments where other robots face more limitations. It moves stably across rough terrain and can handle slopes of up to 20%. Its robust construction, along with its omnidirectional drive system, allows movement in any direction while adapting to different surfaces, from paved or concrete floors to rural grounds such as dirt, gravel, or grass.

It is also optimized to maintain stability even when carrying heavy loads, ensuring reliable performance in any work scenario.

10. How many hours of autonomy does it have?

RB-FIQUS offers up to 10 hours of autonomous operation, depending on the task and the load being transported. Another advantage of this robot is that it incorporates three modular, swappable batteries with a combined capacity of 48VDC@135Ah*, which is especially useful in outdoor environments where charging stations are not always available, as it allows carrying spare batteries and swapping them easily before running out of power.

This makes it a reliable tool for long work shifts without frequent recharging, leading to greater operational efficiency and reduced downtime. For applications requiring constant outdoor movement — such as many agricultural tasks, material transport, or heavy load handling — this provides a significant competitive advantage.

11. How long does it take to receive the robot after purchase?

RB-FIQUS is a configurable and highly modular robotic platform, and one of its main competitive advantages is adaptation to each specific application, depending on project needs. Therefore, to ensure each robot meets this advantage, it is available on order.

This means each unit is manufactured and configured at different levels based on customer specifications. Delivery time may vary depending on the specifics of the demand, so it is advisable to contact Robotnik directly for a personalized estimate. Generally, delivery can be expected within 5 to 6 months.

12. What tasks can the RB-FIQUS perform with an integrated robotic arm?

When equipped with a robotic arm, RB-FIQUS significantly expands its possibilities, becoming an ideal solution for outdoor mobile manipulation of loads. This combination allows not only transporting materials but also physically interacting with them, facilitating operations that require lifting, holding, or placing objects in different locations. Some examples include:

    • Construction and civil works: moving materials or tools between different areas of the site.
    • Agriculture: transporting harvested crops from collection points to loading or storage areas.
    • Outdoor logistics environments: moving pallets, boxes, or containers between warehouses and outdoor loading docks.
    • Mining or quarries: transporting extracted material samples, tools, or spare parts to work areas.
    • Renewable energy: support in solar or wind farms, moving maintenance equipment, spare parts, and tools to remote or hard-to-access areas.
    • Public infrastructure: assisting in urban maintenance operations, for example, moving temporary signage or intervention equipment in large outdoor spaces.

Robotnik specializes in the development and manufacturing of autonomous mobile robotics for outdoor environments.

If you want to resolve more questions about the RB-FIQUS or need guidance to know if it’s the right robot for your project, our team will be happy to help you with no obligation.

CONTACT US

Preguntas frecuentes sobre la robots para exteriores

La robótica móvil de exterior se refiere a robots autónomos diseñados para operar en entornos al aire libre como áreas agrícolas, zonas industriales o áreas de seguridad.

Deben enfrentarse a terrenos impredecibles, condiciones climáticas variables y ausencia de referencias fijas, por lo que requieren hardware más robusto y sistemas de sensorización avanzados.

Chasis robustos, baterías de alta capacidad, GPS con RTK, LIDAR, software basado en IA y middleware ROS 2 son componentes fundamentales.

Agricultura, logística, seguridad, construcción y monitoreo ambiental son sectores clave que utilizan robots de exterior.