The European Commission funded IRPS programme will provide mobile robotic platforms with advanced 3D mapping and navigation components. The 3D measurement technology, named LIMS (LIDAR Imaging and Measurement System) is based on the innovative concept of real time measurement of position in the presence of sparse regular objects. When integrated onto mobile platforms the LIMS will allow mapping of large areas in real time and at reasonable speed (5m/s).
With millimetric accuracy, the IRPS LIMS will be used to determine the position of the robot in relation to its environment by comparing natural landmarks with the pre-stored 3D maps. In addition, reflectance and video data will give increased robustness. Since the positioning and mapping will not rely on absolute positioning systems, the application can be used indoors as well as outdoors environments.
SciSys will lead the development of the end-to-end high-level control of the the IRPS system. This will include developing the User Interface for high-level command, planning and control as well as the implementation of an on-board autonomous planning service. We will also be responsible for developing an optimised DSP version of the algorithms at the heart of the LIMS system.
The potential uses for technologies developed in IRPS are considerable. One particular use will be demonstrated as part of the programme, the “Porterbot” – accurate and safe guidance of a human through a busy airport building.
More information can be found at http://www.irps-project.net/index.php?option=com_frontpage&Itemid=1
