Context of the project
SmokeBot is driven by application needs for robots that operate in domains with restricted visibility. The exemplary target application are civil robots supporting fire brigades in search and rescue missions, e.g. in post-disaster management operations in response to fires. Previous to this project, sensor technology and the related cognitive approaches could not cope with such demanding conditions. SmokeBot addresses this shortcoming and can thus bring about a step change for robotics. It will deliver software and hardware components which facilitate robot systems to perform under harsh conditions of smoke, dust or fog. This will be demonstrated through integration of the project results in an industrial prototype of a Low Visibility Explorer Robot for providing situational awareness based on a commercial platform (from partner TAUR). In close collaboration with TAUR (robotics industry) and end users (FDDO, advisory group), SmokeBot will crucially improve the abilities of the selected platform, thus increasing safety of rescue staff and European citizens as well as improving the product of a European robotics company in an important market. An even wider impact is expected through the development of novel sensors and the corresponding cognitive approaches. In addition to traditional sensors such as LiDAR and cameras, which are strongly affected by smoke or dust, this sensing unit will include also a novel 3D radar camera, a thermal camera, and high-bandwidth gas sensors (radar, gas, thermal and vision sensors: the RGT-V sensor unit). Fusion of sensor modalities will allow the inclusion of measurements from LiDAR or a camera into the world model when they occasionally penetrate through e.g. smoke. In addition, SmokeBot will develop the means to integrate prior knowledge in the form of crude human sketch maps to allow for robust mapping and navigation even under low visibility in a harsh environment. Sensor technology from SmokeBot will result in new products to be brought to market after the project. Software developed will be made available as open source.
Objectives
SmokeBot has three high-level objectives: hardware and software development of a novel sensor suite for low visibility conditions ([O1]), a set of perception modules to enhance the cognitive abilities of mobile robots, especially for use in disaster response ([O2]), and integration of the project results in a prototype for a commercial Low Visibility Explorer Robot ([O3]).
To achieve these objectives, SmokeBot brings together leading researchers in millimetre- and sub-millimetre-wave radar systems, gas sensor systems, artificial olfaction, mobile robotics, navigation, and 3D perception. The consortium also includes a system integrator (TAUR) producing tele-operated and highly rugged robots for civil first responders and a large fire department (FDDO) that represents the interests of end users.
