Research Accessories > Laser Navigation

Laser Navigation Package

The Laser Mapping and Navigation accessory package for MobileRobots research platforms provides a SICK laser rangefinder fully integrated with the robot platform and onboard computer (power and data), and includes a suite of development software for automatically creating maps, and for accurate, autonomous intelligent localization and navigation of the robot.

          

Package Includes:

• SICK LMS100/111 or LMS200 laser rangefinder (please specify when inquiring)
• Mounting hardware for the robot base platform, assembled
• All cabling, control and integration electronics, assembled
• Mapper3 map making software
• ARNL intelligent localization and navigation development libraries
• MobileEyes remote GUI application
• All hardware assembled, installed and tested on your robot
• All software installed on onboard computer. Help, documentation and lifetime upgrades.
• Robot is ready to begin mapping and demonstrating navigation capabilities immediately out of the box

Requirements:

• Robot base platform (any except Amigobot)
• The optional integrated gyroscope correction system for the robot base is recommended for greater accuracy
• Onboard computer

Options:

• The laser navigation system may be used to autonomously drive some robots into automatic recharging stations.
• For outdoor robots equipped with GPS, the laser navigation software may be used in conjunction with mOGS outdoor navigation software  as well.

Comparing laser and sonar navigation

Within a single plane, the precision of lasers is 25 times that of the Pioneer sonar (180 readings in 180 degrees vs. 8). The error rate of sonar is far higher because the sonar is emitted in a 15-degree cone and depending upon the surface ahead, sound may bounce away from the detector. Also false positives are not uncommon. Sonars' sensing cone, however, does mean that they can see objects outside the single plane sensed by a single laser. Lasers can sense objects further – up to 32 m -- while sonar cannot accurately read beyond 5 m.  A robot running with laser can operate for days, weeks or even months without becoming lost.

Proven software

MobileRobots' industrial and commercial systems  rely on the same laser mapping and navigation algorithms and techniques as implemented in the Laser  Navigation Package to provide highly reliable delivery and manufacturing systems to customers around the world.

Quick laser mapping

Mapping a location is simple. Just teleoperate the robot around the environment to be mapped while laser data is captured. Then load the data into Mapper3 (link to Research Software/Mapper3) and watch as walls, doors and furniture appear. Are there people walking by? No problem. Moving objects will typically disappear or may be edited out later.

Also Available

Also available for purchase is laser rangefinder hardware only with mounting bracket and power supply/integration kit.

For extra obstacle sensing and avoidance, add a small Hokuyo URG laser sensor.

Inquire for details.

SICK LMS-1xx Rangefinder Details

Now available are the SICK LMS-100 (for indoor use) and LMS-111 (for outdoor use; standard laser on Seekur) rangefinders. The LMS-1xx lasers are smaller and lighter weight than the LMS-200 with lower power consumption, and feature an 270° field of view, but with lower scanning frequency and bit less range and more error.

Please specify when inquiring whether you are interested in the LMS-1xx or LMS-200.

Specifications per SICK

SICK LMS-200 Rangefinder Details

Please specify when inquiring whether you are interested in the LMS-1xx or LMS-200.

Specifications per SICK