Sensor solutions for autonomous platforms

The first "self-driving vehicles" (AGVs) were guided by cable or magnetism through a fixed route. Today, we can use mobile platforms that move fully autonomously and are aware of the entire (3D) environment. To navigate autonomously, monitor cargo and ensure safety for people and the environment, SICK provides a variety of sensor solutions that integrate seamlessly into a standard industrial control system.

Developments within robotics are rapid. From relatively static setups that work only on the basis of complex programming, they have now become easily configurable systems that can move through space autonomously. This is possible in part because of developments that have taken place in parallel within sensor technology. On the one hand, this has made sensors cheaper; on the other hand, intelligence is increasingly being integrated into the sensors: edge computing. This enables faster reactions and allows the robot to make its own decisions without interference from the main controller.

Mobile autonomous platforms

This trend is reflected in the development of autonomous platforms that are fully "aware" of their surroundings. Henk Oosterhuis, product manager at SICK explains: "These types of platforms are often used in large logistics centers to transport products and goods internally. It is a great advantage when they do not have to move along a fixed route, but can independently determine how best to get to a certain point. However, this autonomous character is only possible when you take the right measures in the context of safety for people and the environment (crash protection), positioning (where am I and where should I go) and load handling (uniform load, maximum speed with a certain load). Precisely these elements that can be filled in with the current generation of sensors."

Standard portfolio

Over the years, SICK has accumulated a broad amount of knowledge and experience about the sensors needed to drive an autonomous mobile platform efficiently and safely. Based on this, a standard portfolio has been compiled with which practically every issue related to these platforms can be met. All partial solutions are robust and proven and can be integrated by any machine or robot builder without any problems. Maarten Braadbaart is product manager and states: "Combined with our practical knowledge regarding, for example, speed and loading, this means: big steps, fast home. And certainly not constantly reinventing the wheel."

SafeVisionary2

One of these standard solutions is the 3D time-of-flight camera safeVisionary2. This camera constantly scans its surroundings and detects when people or other vehicles are in the way. In doing so, it prevents collisions and associated damage or injury. In addition, the camera is able to recognize stairs or steps early, preventing the robot from accidentally plunging down. With two cameras, fall protection in accordance with the IEC 63327-2021 required performance level D is achievable.

LiDAR-LOC

As a basis for free navigation, determination of position and orientation is a crucial requirement. Whereas outdoor GPS and compass are deployable, for indoor application they lack the necessary accuracy. LiDAR-LOC continuously scans the environment and determines position and direction based on the contours of space. A reliable and easy-to-apply sensor solution for indoor on many LIDAR sensors from SICK. 

Braadbaart concludes, "These are just two examples from a portfolio of many dozens of standard modules with which an autonomous platform can be accurately set up for its task in a specific environment. To try out ideas, we have a brand new test center in Bilthoven. Here we can directly show what added value our sensors have for a specific customer idea and the customer can also test and validate themselves. Please feel free to contact us to discuss the possibilities."