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Robotics
Robotics for Advanced Factory Applications Applications
We have pioneered machine-vision techniques for detecting, locating, and
measuring random objects. Using these techniques in combination with advanced
controllers and robotic actuators, we developed systems that for the first
time automate highly challenging tasks such as parcel handling, manufacturing
assembly, and parts feeding.
Field Robotics
In the past decade, robots have been successfully used
for repetitive and structured tasks such as assembly-line manufacturing. Field robotics
is the emerging robotic technology for unstructured (primarily hostile and outdoor) environments.
Modern robots will depend on increasingly sophisticated systems to perceive and react to their
environments—an area in which SRI excels.To satisfy this need, we are developing vision,
navigation, and communications technologies for mobile robots. Although these technologies
will have wide applicability, their primary and immediate applications will be (1) reconnaissance
and surveillance, and (2) explosive ordnance disposal (EOD).
Our long-term objective is to develop and demonstrate techniques to enable robots to cooperate
in an unstructured outdoor environment. We modified a Remotec mobile robot for remote control by
an operator using a radio modem. For communications we used a packet-switched radio, which is
similar to military radios. We call the modified model the Large, Useful Robot for Controlling
Hazards [LURCH]. We also developed and demonstrated special robot motions for application
scenarios such as handling ordnance: in an outdoor demonstration, an operator used LURCH to
handle a dummy artillery shell.
Tactical Mobile Robots
In both military
and commercial sectors interest is growing in small mobile robots that
can augment human capabilities in hazardous environments. For example,
robots could perform reconnaissance missions; and robotic search and rescue
devices could traverse debris fields to locate casualties after an earthquake.
SRI is developing and integrating new technologies in robot control, legged
locomotion, embedded batteries, simulation, and artificial muscle actuation
to build walking machines for such applications. These machines are small
and light enough to be carried by hand to areas where they are needed,
intelligent enough to be autonomous, and dexterous enough to manipulate
their environment and traverse rough terrain.
Pipeline Robot
We designed and developed the Magnetically Attached General Purpose Inspection Engine (MAGPIPE) to inspect small (15 cm) natural-gas pipes for corrosion and leakage. The robot's magnetic wheels enable it to travel on the ceiling and sides of pipes, and to navigate obstacles such as T-joints, vertical climbs, and sleeve joints. A demonstration robot, with on-board battery power, has been successfully tested; it sends control signals and pipeline video images through a fiber-optic cable.
Although the robot was originally designed for pipeline inspection, it
can also be used to clean ship hulls, inspect and repair tanks, and inspect
steel bridges. One patent has been issued for the robot's wheels, and
others are pending.
 Video of MAGPIPE in action.
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R&D Divisions