Research Robots > PeopleBot

PeopleBot

PeopleBot is an affordable differential-drive robot for service and human-robot interaction (HRI) projects. PeopleBot is built on the robust P3-DX base, with a chest-level extension to facilitate interaction with people. 

PeopleBot offers a touchscreen (pictured) connected to an onboard computer, for human interaction. PeopleBot has infrared table sensors to detect when it approaches a table and an optional 3dof gripper with sensors to detect and pick up a cup or other tabletop object.

PeopleBot features the same architecture as other MobileRobots platforms,  featuring the Pioneer SDK.  With an onboard computer and the laser navigation package with ARNL software (the SICK LMS-200 laser option is pictured), PeopleBot can navigate autonomously and avoid obstacles with precision.  PeopleBots without a laser can navigate autonomously and avoid obstacles less reliably, using built-in sonar. 

With an onboard computer and pan/tilt/zoom camera, a PeopleBot can be used for research topics including object and people recognition and tracking, mapping, localization, or other robot vision tasks. (Use the included ACTS software for a simple object tracking software solution.)  The camera may be installed on top of or underneath the top deck. When placed underneath, the camera can view the gripper, tabletop or floor. 

With the audio and speech package, it can record and play back audio, and perform speech recognition and speech synthesis (TTS). 

All of these optional features are included with the the Performance PeopleBot package configuration.

A multi-DOF manipulator arm may be added in place of the touchscreen.  Stereo cameras may be added in place of the touchscreen or PTZ camera.

The PeopleBot base platform with included software has the ability to:

• BE DRIVEN with keys or joystick
• PLAN PATHS with gradient navigation
• DISPLAY a map of its sonar readings (or laser readings, with optional laser upgrade)
• LOCALIZE using sonar (or laser, with optional laser upgrade)
• COMMUNICATE SENSOR & CONTROL information relating sonar, motor encoder, motor controls, user I/O, and battery charge data
• RUN C/C++ PROGRAMS
• TEST ACTIVITIES QUICKLY AND SIMULATE BEHAVIORS OFFLINE with the MobileSim simulator that accompanies each development environment

The PeopleBot is an all-purpose base, used for research and applications involving:

• human-robot interaction research
• natural environment interaction and manipulation research
• telepresence applications
• robot vision research
• tour guides
• waiters
• messengers
• monitors and guards
• trade shows
• exhibitions
• performances
• education
• cooperative tasks

PeopleBot runs best on hard, flat surfaces. It can traverse low sills and household power cords and climb most wheelchair ramps.

 Download PeopleBot Datasheet (pdf)

See Also:

• P3-DX 
• Research PatrolBot

Prices/Buy/More Information:

Contact us for more information or to inquire about purchasing