The Association for Advancing Automation (A3) has published ISO 21423:2026, an international Standard for communication and interoperability among industrial mobile robots (IMRs), regardless of manufacturer or model. Developed by ISO Technical Committee 299, it covers automated guided vehicles, autonomous mobile robots and similar systems operating in the same facility.
The standard sets requirements for how robots, fleet managers and other equipment exchange information and request actions. Robots can share details such as their location, speed, direction, operating condition, tasks and availability.
According to A3, a common approach could reduce cases in which robots interfere with one another’s routes or route planning, helping improve availability and system efficiency. It may also make it easier for companies to combine equipment from different suppliers and expand their automation systems.
ISO 21423 also covers communication with machines serviced by robots, enterprise resource planning tools and building systems such as lifts, automated doors and alarms. People using or wearing mobile devices can share similar information to help coordinate their work with robots.
A3 said the standard is available through its online store for $373, with a price of $320 for members.
Sources: The Robot Report.