Yujin Robotics developed a prototype robot, Jupiter, to be used in conjunction with a project organized by the Korean Ministry of Information and Communication ("MIC"). Jupiter has been used for this pilot — testing it in ordinary households — since October 2005. Yujin selected Evolution Robotics' NorthStar product as the primary localization method for Jupiter for this pilot program.

Jupiter is the first robot pilot in Korea being tested in average household environments. MIC is using three different types of robots and has a total of 64 units installed for this pilot project. The primary purpose of the pilot testing is to prove the Ubiquitous Robot Companion (URC) concept proposed by MIC. The URC concept is a scenario where the robot is connected to a server through a broadband connection allowing functions to be performed on the server side, thereby minimizing the stand-alone function significantly and reducing the robot client cost.

The NorthStar sensor is being mounted on the top of Jupiter and is using NorthStar's projectors to fit a home environment. Using NorthStar's localization, the robot can move autonomously in any environment.

NorthStar is the world's lowest cost localization solution, enabling smart and intelligent navigation. NorthStar's localization system is comprised of two components: NorthStar Detector and NorthStar IR Projector. The NorthStar detector uses triangulation to measure position and heading in relation to IR light spots that can be projected onto the ceiling (or other visible surface). Since each IR light spot has a unique signature, the detector can instantly and unambiguously localize.

Evolution Robotics is working closely with Yujin on the Jupiter project and will continue to improve NorthStar based on the feedback from this field of testing. This will greatly benefit NorthStar's other applications such as robotic vacuum cleaners that can perform "smart" vacuuming as opposed to the inefficient random movements used in current robotic vacuums.

To find out more about NorthStar and how it can enhance your robotic product, click here.

Evolution Robotics was asked by Sharper Image to devise a custom navigation solution for its eVac robotic vacuum.

We started by defining the product functionality and specifications. We also developed firmware to be run on the on-board processor which implements all aspects of the vacuum’s behavior — from low level server feedback control and obstacle avoidance to cleaning and navigation strategies. We also assisted Sharper Image in fine-tuning some of the robotic aspects of the platform design like calibration of the stair sensors, power electronics circuitry design, front-bumper design and brush motor speed control. Additionally, we devised and implemented procedures for quantifying floor coverage performance for fine-tuning of control parameters and comparison with competitor's products. Our partnership with Sharper Image also entailed performing quality assessment on prototypes and early production units.

Evolution Robotics can customize any of its robotic solutions to fit your product's needs. Click here to see how Evolution Robotics can make your vacuum or other product navigate in real environments.