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LAAS Laser
Rangefinger
ROVER
systems used for special field applications are today
able to recognize obstacles through the combination of a
stereo vision system and 3D scanning laser technology.
After
studying various sensors, used for robotic vision and especially
for terrain modeling and obstacle detection the
Franco-Italian group working on the project
"Concordia" developed in collaboration with
Carnegie Mellon University a vision system combining
stereo camera visualization with a laser scanning the
ground in front of the ROVER Robot. Tested in the
Antartica on the NOMAD robot (Se picture) the system
showed first positive results.
Primary
the idea is based on the use of a laser rangefinder
mounted on the stereo camera mast is used by the
navigation system to detect obstacles in the robot's
path. It scans several meters in front of the robot to
find features that the stereo cameras may miss.
The
laser source used for the experiment has been provided
by RIEGEL and showed perfect functionality, even under
icy conditions.
"I
operated your laser in very bad weather conditions, the
7 of november specificly (-25ƒC, speed >15 knots,
with blowing snow) and everything was right related to
the laser hardware" (Nicolas Vandapel / LAAS)
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Robotic
System NOMAD
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Photo
LAAS-CNRS
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The
robotic system NOMAD is a four wheel ROVER designed to
traverse planetary analogous terrain. Fully deployed, it
is 2.4 x 2.4 x 2.4 meters, and weights 725 kg. Powered
by a Gasoline generator, it travels up to 50 centimeters
per second and has the capability to traverse over most
large obstacles. In the special conditions given in the
Antartic, the NOMAD has been equipped with studded tires
increasing the ice/tire friction and a GPS system for
self-detection of position and directions.
Article Reference :
002068
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LASER
TECHNOLOGY NEWS 
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