Robotic vehicle guidance system can control 1.5mm in three dimensions

Citation

(1998), "Robotic vehicle guidance system can control 1.5mm in three dimensions", Sensor Review, Vol. 18 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/sr.1998.08718bad.005

Robotic vehicle guidance system can control 1.5mm in three dimensions

Robotic vehicle guidance system can control 1.5mm in three dimensions

Uses in office, plant, warehouse, hospital and factory automation

Keywords Litton Data Systems, Position control, Robotics

The new CONAC system from Litton Data Systems offers a precision laser-based positioning and guidance capability, allowing positional accuracy to be controlled in three dimensions to 1.5mm. Computerised opto-electronic navigation and control (CONAC), is suited for applications where alternative solutions such as GPS cannot operate, such as indoors or where solutions do not provide sufficient accuracy.

The CONAC system has been successfully implemented in the control of robotic vehicles in factories, offices, hospitals and warehouses.

Unlike other position control systems, which may use dead reckoning or pattern recognition methods, CONAC takes its inspiration from global positioning system (GPS). A rotating infra-red laser beacon is mounted on the vehicle or object to be located.

The laser (which is eye-safe in operation), illuminates an array of strategically-placed sensors as it spins. A central PC collects information from the sensors and uses triangulation to locate the position of the beacon. CONAC has a high bandwidth ­ it has allowed precise control of a remotely- operated vehicle at speeds of up to 75 mph.

The system, developed by MTI Research Inc., has a positional accuracy of 1.5mm, with outdoor accuracy being slightly less at around 5mm. The heading of a remotely-operated vehicle can be controlled to within 0.05°. The CONAC system can be configured as a two- or three-dimensional system, the latter using a vertical-plane beacon and 3D sensors to determine height and enable pitch, roll and yaw control.

Links from the PC to the CONAC sensors can be hard wired. Alternatively radio links can be used for collecting the information and controlling the robot. A comprehensive set of software enables the creation of paths, maps and fully automatic route definition. The PC can also be used in a data recording mode for the collection of historical route data.

Litton Data Systems' European Operation, based in the UK, was formed as a result of the acquisition by Litton Industries, Inc. of Science Applications International Corporation's (SAIC) European defence business in February, 1997.

For further information please contact: John Yale, Litton UK Ltd, Data Systems Division, 26 Craven Court, Stanhope Road, Camberley, Surrey GU15 3BW, UK. Tel: +44 (0) 1276-675511; Fax: +44 (0)1276-676262.