Legged robots making the right step
A sensing paw that could improve the ability of legged robots to move on different terrains
Researchers at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) and the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay recently developed a new artificial paw with sensing capabilities that could help to improve the ability of legged robots to move on a variety of terrains. This “sensorized” paw, introduced in a paper posted to the preprint server arXiv, can recognize different terrains and their properties by estimating the force applied to its surface from the ground underneath.
Past studies have consistently reported the difficulties that legged robots can experience when moving on uneven and complex terrains. For instance, they have found that difficult terrains can restrict the movements of legged robots and create occlusions, preventing the robots from effectively sensing their surrounding environment.
In recent years, roboticists and computer scientists have thus been trying to develop computational methods that can recognize different terrains and modulate the movements of legged robots accordingly, to ensure their optimal locomotion. Yet many approaches proposed so far rely on sensors that are already integrated in the robots, such as LiDAR sensors and cameras, which offer only a limited view of the surrounding environment and of the terrain the robots are walking on.
“The integration of information from sight, touch, and sound empowers humans and animals to swiftly adapt while walking or running on diverse terrains,” Barnwal, Olsen and Alexis said. “This multisensory approach boosts spatial awareness, enhances balance, and facilitates rapid decision-making for safe navigation in varied environments. Similarly, providing quadrupeds with sound-based terrain recognition and pressure information on foot exertion in real-time can aid them in maintaining balance and can help them adapt their control and navigation strategies effectively in various terrain situations.”
If you enjoyed this article, you will like the following ones: don't miss them by subscribing to :
