RoboCupRescue 2011 - Robot League Team Cuerbot (México)

Jose J. Lopez, Isrrael Almaraz, Paloma González, Axel Candanosa, David Ruiz

Instituto Tecnologico de Nuevo Leon, Av. Eloy Cavazos 2001, Tolteca Guadalupe, NL MX 67170; Universidad TecMilenio, Las Torres Lazaro Cardenas 2610, Del Paseo Residencial Monterrey, NL, MX 64909

http://robotica.itnl.edu.mx · http://www.tecmilenio.edu.mx


Abstract This project is developed based into 6 wheels with gravity center fixed mobile robot for rescue operations in Mexico, our principal effort is to develop a type-2 fuzzy logic algorithm to evaluate victim state and position; in this project use an embedded topology to apply our control algorithms and manage data acquisition and actuator enveloped. Robotic design includes an innovative technique to evaluate route measurement with dual sensor style.

Introduction

For this project we are working in a real situation of support for rescue teams of Nuevo Leon State, our topography is special for tracking vehicles and for this reason work with this type locomotion system. Taking as reference RoboCup rules [1], we consider CO2, body temperature, sound and video processing; additional variables to consider are proximity detection and level position. To link all these variables we use I²C network in this case, every node in this network have either two elements: microcontroller and level conversion circuit. This microcontroller has a simple responsibility, manage a Universal Algorithm to Read/Write our Environment (UARWE), this algorithm includes protocol algorithm. All this nodes are controlled by an embedded card that uses C++ as platform to develop mapping and robot control. Some previous works was presented by [2,4,5,6]

For control algorithm we use two programs: one based in fuzzy logic type II with two options to evaluate, both are developed in embedded card with C program, this program consider CO2, body temperature (IR sensor), displacement and voice as inputs to evaluate, as output victim detection and, second Finite State Machine FSM algorithm is developed for single robot´s displacement. It´s very important take a consideration always manual control of robot movement is present and control algorithm helps to give a guide to operator to drive this robot.

For a communication we use two links to make contact with operator and robot, WiFi type N net is used for PC-PC communication, with regular configuration defined for parameters of TCP/IP protocol. In this case one computer (master) controls robot and another computer is a slave of the other, using software to remote control. The frequency managed is 2.4 GHz, and all characteristics enveloped in WiFi Consortium.

For video management we use two cameras: fix and mobile respectively. Fix camera uses WiFi link this camera generate a high quality image to process with control algorithm, but previous experience the use of this type of cameras generate noises by robot movement, to minimize we use a analog modulation (FM) wireless camera and send your signal to receiver, for this case, carrier signal is located at 2.4 GHz.

Additional hand radios are used to communicate with victim, one in vox mode located inside of robot and other in Operator Station as half duplex mode, this radios are using amateur frequency 146 MHz in FM mode. To give exact position of robot we consider two sensors to evaluate this date, gyroscope MEMS sensors that evaluate three axis position and acceleration and two encoders to make a measure of two axis positions, both variables are connected to microcontrollers commented lines up. Around robot structure we fit six proximity sensors to detect wall and free space, all processing is realized in control algorithm.

As mechanical references we use three mass elements to move this robot, one is main structure where caterpillar and mechanisms are linked to produce X, Y movement, another two structures are helping to climb and move down the main structure, every structure has a similar bonds with tracking system, maintaining or trying to, fit always our center of gravity.

For all this work we made some research over projects presented in lasted RoboCup competitions and as reference our participation in 3rd Latin America Open RoboCup in Rescue Robot League, we try to evaluate our preliminary results and obviously our actual participation will be reflected in a potential product to introduce to national market free of providers of rescue robots.

Team photos and initial visual presentation
Team photos and initial visual presentation
Team photos and initial visual presentation
Team photos and initial visual presentation
Team photos and initial visual presentation
Team photos and initial visual presentation

1. Team Members and Their Contributions

Israel Alamaraz Electronic systems design

Axel Candanosa Mechanical design and actuator design

David Ruiz Robot design and Virtual instrument programing

Paloma González Advisor and Electronic systems design

Jesus Lopez-Villalobos Advisor and Communications design

2 Operator Station Set-up and Break-Down (10 minutes)

The operator system is packed in one middle Cuerbot suitcase, and the robot is also packed in one large size Cuerbot traveling box.. Suitcase weight will not exceed 10 kg. and our robot is previously fully ensembles, to large travel it can be dismounting an re ensemble again. Our Operator Station is formed by Computer (laptop) dedicated as interface of embedded card located in robot, all programs are located there; another accessory is one video and receiver of fix camera and the last element is a hand radio to receive environment sound from robot. All are fixed ergonomically with suit case. A regular power supply is added to manage 110 VCA, but it is prepared for emergency energy plant or 12Vcd batteries. The setup is quickly is just plug and play and for break down in similar way.

3 Communications

The method of communication between the user and the robot will be by means of one laptop that have control over other embedded computer managed remotely, communicated a network Wi-Fi type N. Internal communication will be handled directly with I²C network that will connect to microcontrollers with net bus [15], who will be in charge to receive and to carry out the orders that the mother-board requires Another links are used for FM video transmitter with 2.4 GHz frequency; for voice link uses a regular hand radios in the VHF amateur band (144-148 MHz).

Table 1. Frequencies table used for this robot.

Rescue Robot League
Cuerbot (MEXICO)
MODIFY TABLE TO NOTE ALL FREQUENCIES THAT APPLY TO YOUR TEAM
Frequency Channel/Band Power (mW)
2.4 GHz - 802.11n 3 500
2.4 GHz - Other FM 500
147 MHz 147.5 MHz 1000

4 Control Method and Human-Robot Interface

In the control method, already detected the variables of the victim by means of the sensors they are analyzed by means of fuzzy logic type I methodology. For the process of fuzzyfication the operators used are Min-Max method, this give us an implication of variables becomes taking minimum from the exit variables, they are added considering its maximum values of each one of the same exits of the activated rules, and the method of desfuzzification is the centroid in the diffuse algorithm obtained a total of 8 evaluated rules and at the moment it is continued valuing the exact specification of the model for the detection of victims; as reference, comparing with old model reduce 30 % of computational process. For future hardware mapping decision, consider two steps for fuzzy control, first victim's found subsystem and second voice analyze subsystem; for linguistic description variables Gaussian shapes are preferred, but in some cases trapezoidal graphs are used too. Some preliminary results, give us some differences about victim age; and it's expressed by different desfuzzification phase outputs with similar form but variable highly dependent of age. The last results give opportunity to use type-II fuzzy logic as methodology to found better refined desfuzzification victim variable [8]. All environments are developed in LabView 8 to take access to interfaces and be compatible with OS. This part is been currently developed, but this manages motion control and victim detection indication in robot teach box, we are trying to connect a mechanical displacement accessory (joystick), using info packet over TCP/IP. Some references were in [3,6].

Type-2 fuzzy logic systems

Interval type-2 (IT2) fuzzy logic systems (FLS) constitute an emerging technology. A type-2 fuzzy set [1], denoted by $\widetilde{A}$ , is characterized by a type-2 membership function $\mu_{\widetilde{A}}$ , where $x \in X$ and $u \in J_x \subseteq [1]$ .

$$\widetilde{A} = \langle x, u \rangle \mu_{\widetilde{A}} \langle x, u \rangle \forall x \in X, \forall u \in J_x \subseteq [1,1]$$

and $0 \le \mu_{\widetilde{A}}(x,u) \ge 1$ . This means that at specific value of x, say x', there is no longer a single value as for the type-1 membership function (x') [8]; instead, the type-2 membership function takes on a set of values named the primary membership of x', $u \in J_x \subseteq [0,1]$ .

It is possible to assign an amplitude distribution to all of those points. This amplitude is named a secondary grade of general type-2 fuzzy set. When the values of secondary grade are the same and equal to 1, there is the case of an interval type-2 membership function. In human detection, the inputs of the IT2 FLS model are the victim's body temperature, CO2 composition, and the voice frequency.

The architecture of the IT2 FLS is established in that way that parameters are continuously optimized. The number of rule-antecedents are fixed to three; one for the body temperature (divided into three IT2 fuzzy sets), one for the CO2 consumptions (divided into five IT2 fuzzy sets), and one for the voice frecuency (divided into five IT2 fuzzy sets), resulting (3 * 5 * 5 = 75) twenty five rules. Gaussian primary membership functions of uncertain means are chosen for the antecedents and consequents.

The resulting interval type-2 TSK FLS uses type-1 singleton fuzzification, join under maximum t-conorm, meet under product t-norm and product implication.

The training mechanims used is the back-propagation (BP) method.

The IT2 CTC model has three four inputs $x_1 \in X_1$ , $x_2 \in X_2$ , and $x_3 \in X_3$ and one output $y \in Y$ , and a rule base of size M = 75 of the form:

$$\widetilde{R}^l$$

: IF $x_1$ is $\widetilde{A}_1^l$ and $x_2$ is $\widetilde{A}_2^l$ , and $x_3$ is $\widetilde{A}_3^l$ , , THEN $y$ is $\widetilde{G}^l$

where l=1, 2, ... 75. These rules represent a fuzzy relations between the input space $X_1 \times X_2 \times X_3$ and the output space Y, and are complete, consistent and continuous.

The primary membership function $\widetilde{A}_1^l$ , $\widetilde{A}_2^l$ and $\widetilde{A}3^l$ of each consequent is a gaussian function with uncertain means, see Fig. 1. Since the center-of-sets type-reducer replaces each consequent set $C{\widetilde{G}_l}$ by its centroid then $v^l$ and $v^l$ are the consequent parameters

centroid, then $y_l^l$ and $y_r^l$ are the consequent parameters. Initially, only the input-output data training pairs $(x^{(l)}:y^{(l)})$ , $(x^{(2)}:y^{(2)})$ ,..., $(x^{(N)}:y^{(N)})$ are available and the initial values for the centroid parameters $y_l^l$ and $y_r^l$ may be determined according to the linguistic rules from human experts, as is the case of this application.

Fig4.1 Temperature type-2 membership functions, it's a simple example of temperature evaluation.
Fig4.1 Temperature type-2 membership functions, it's a simple example of temperature evaluation.
Fig 4.2 Structure of I/O of fuzzy controller, for this case Pre-selector controller evaluate human variables available CO₂ and temperature; fitting controller evaluate audio voice, this step is changing with old age [22].
Fig 4.2 Structure of I/O of fuzzy controller, for this case Pre-selector controller evaluate human variables available CO₂ and temperature; fitting controller evaluate audio voice, this step is changing with old age [22].
Fig 4.3 Graphic evaluation of preliminary fuzzy graphs of Preselector controller.
Fig 4.3 Graphic evaluation of preliminary fuzzy graphs of Preselector controller.
Fig 4.4 Fuzzy graphs typical used for fuzzy controller, Gaussian form are considered in all variables.
Fig 4.4 Fuzzy graphs typical used for fuzzy controller, Gaussian form are considered in all variables.
Fig 4.5 Fuzzy Algorithm Matrix, this figure represent linguistic experience of rescue operator expressed in general way, in other words, with natural language.
Fig 4.5 Fuzzy Algorithm Matrix, this figure represent linguistic experience of rescue operator expressed in general way, in other words, with natural language.

Fuzzy control and motion algorithms

In this moment, we are defining our expected results based into knowledge base of Operator experience in rescue operations and 6 possibilities are been evaluated in this moment according human age [9-13]. For basic movement of robot an Finite State Machine FSM algorithm is currently designed for manual control, the simple way to represent this control is following joystick over user indicated displacement, i.e., moving left indicates to motor their current flow and as speed regulation based into two PWM duty cycles previously fixed ( k= 0.45 and 0.8).

Fig 4.6 FSM algorithm tested by SimForge tool for manual control of robot displacement, this figure depicts Petri Net equivalent for general structure [23,24].
Fig 4.6 FSM algorithm tested by SimForge tool for manual control of robot displacement, this figure depicts Petri Net equivalent for general structure [23,24].
Fig 4.7 Netbook used for robot controller
Fig 4.7 Netbook used for robot controller

5 Map generation/ printing

For mapping generation we are designing a program to detect obstacles and give telemetry info about position of robot and victim detection. We are integrating in embedded card a control protocol program that obtains info of encoders, gyroscope and accelerometers, all of them are processed for this program. An develop XÝ map tool is currently developed to show and print robot position, in this moment only simple detection of trajectory is created, for victim detection fuzzy algorithm helps to main program to establish the possibility of victim presence. For measurement proposes, we are using metric units. This program is making developed in LabView 8 student edition.

6 Sensors for navigation and localization

For this purpose we use old sensor scheme used in previous prototype, remembering it consider two element to make it, two absolute encoders located into robot structure an they give us 360° for X-Y Axis motion, their mechanical mounting will be specified in the next sections. In this case electrical parameters are compatible with TTL level managed by microcontrollers used in this robot, all information is driving with control PC program into embedded card. The resolution of this sensor is 4 revolutions by one track band revolution considering 0.000694 lineal meters reflected in X- Axis and for Y-Axis consider angular displacement 1440 pulses by revolution.

Another innovator element included is a gyroscope based in MEMS technology to give us either two parameters: level and acceleration measurement, digital output in serial format is used to communicate with your corresponding microcontroller. This smart sensor has a resolution of 0.004° by axis and considers 3D level detection and, in similar manner is treated acceleration measurement.

Both displacement sensors used are evaluated to prevent false measurement by wheels sliding and another characteristic is to evaluate level for mapping purposes.

fig 6.1: Absolute encoder wiring characteristics, take of OMRON datasheet.
fig 6.1: Absolute encoder wiring characteristics, take of OMRON datasheet.
fig 6.2: iSensor based in MEMS 3D level and acceleration [14].
fig 6.2: iSensor based in MEMS 3D level and acceleration [14].

7 Sensors for Victim Identification

This type of sensors is the senses of our robot since by means of it will obtain the data required for the detection of victims.

The types of sensors to use are:

  • CO2 sensorial gas: It contributes to the perception and identification of the gas emitted by the called man CO2 is not necessary its calibration, can detect from 0 to 100,000ppm is necessary with that sensor is necessary to be located to a 50.000 distance of 5cm which will emit ppm. This sensor is one of but the important ones since This type of sensor will be used table 3.
  • Two encoders absolute: Located one in each gear of the flank of the robot, it will show to the number of returns or revolutions to us that each gives to the band that crosses a certain position.

Table 3. CO₂ sensor characteristic table

Characteristic Range
Output signal range: From estándar pressure
Input potencial: 0-4 volts
Gas sampling mode: 5 volts ( + 0.25 V)
Normal operating temperatura range: 25ºC (+ 5ºC)
Operating humanity range: 5-95% (non-condensing)
Storage temperatura range: -40 to 65ºC
Fig 7.1: DAQ CO2 sensor circuit, this circuit is based in only non inverted amplifier to fit CO₂ sensor directly to A/D converter located inside of microcontroller.
Fig 7.1: DAQ CO2 sensor circuit, this circuit is based in only non inverted amplifier to fit CO₂ sensor directly to A/D converter located inside of microcontroller.
Fig 7.2: CO₂ sensor figure and response.
Fig 7.2: CO₂ sensor figure and response.

IR sensorial sensor

IR sensorial: this type of sensor will be used to locate at a distance to victim from its broadcast temperature and it detected it at the moment and this information soon was sent to give alert of victim located. Their output voltage is easy to link to microcontrollers because is 0 to 5 volts range.

Table 4. IR temperature specifications

Characteristic Range
Sensing range 0300
Type OD 100 GA 300
Voltage Supply 18…32 DC
Current consumption <40 mA
Current output 4…20 mA
Angle of vision <10º
Reproduction +1 ºC
Temperatura coeficient +0.1 of the measuring value
Response time <100 ms
Measuring accuracy +3 of the measuring value
Ambient temperatura -10…+60 ºC
Load resistente RL <500 Ω
EMV-class A
Protection [EN 60529] IP 67
Material AISI 316 Ti
Connection M12 connector
Fig. 7.3: DAQ IR sensor, this is a more complicated structure because only cover a little par of total range of temperature sensor, only 30 to 40°C, and we need to build a V/V converter based in non inverted, adding and inverted amplifiers. An special reference voltage with Zener diode was necessary but no depicted here.
Fig. 7.3: DAQ IR sensor, this is a more complicated structure because only cover a little par of total range of temperature sensor, only 30 to 40°C, and we need to build a V/V converter based in non inverted, adding and inverted amplifiers. An special reference voltage with Zener diode was necessary but no depicted here.
Fig.7.3 IR Sensor model OS65 used for body temperature measurement
Fig.7.3 IR Sensor model OS65 used for body temperature measurement
Fig 7.4 IR Sensor Characteristics of distance effect.
Fig 7.4 IR Sensor Characteristics of distance effect.

Pan and tilt camera

Pan and tilt Camera with a horizontal movement 180º and a heave 60º with the aid of software of obtains the image in the controller of the robot, [9]. This camera is connected directly to embedded card using USB link.

Fig 7.5 Pan and Tilt Camera with USB interface connected to embedded card..
Fig 7.5 Pan and Tilt Camera with USB interface connected to embedded card..

Analog FM wireless camera

By the distortion of the noise of the digital camera was necessary to use an analogous wireless camera, some additional info may be founded in [8]. This camera uses FM to manage audio and video continuously from camera transmitter to receiver in the operator station.

Fig 7.6 Full system integration of robot's controller, we depicted all sensors & actuators enveloped to complete functionally.
Fig 7.6 Full system integration of robot's controller, we depicted all sensors & actuators enveloped to complete functionally.

8 Robot Locomotion

Our robot is composed by two rigid bodies and auxiliary bounds mechanism that support all mobile parts over displacement structure, this design is based into VolksBot XT model depicted in [25], but some specific mechanics was adapted for our necessities. Obviously, electronically is quite different because our control programs and hardware is designed for us, to evaluate different strategies and necessities for rescue operations.

In the Figure 8.1, show the body Robot, Total size of robot's world is 24 X 30 inches.

Fig. 8.1 3D robot structure with main tracking system depicted with climb accessories
Fig. 8.1 3D robot structure with main tracking system depicted with climb accessories

Robot mechanical structure

This robot has a structure body and tow mechanism to that wheels could be mobiles see the Figure 8.2

Fig 8.2 Mechanic movement of structural mobile robot
Fig 8.2 Mechanic movement of structural mobile robot

Transmission

Our Robot get move through a transmission whit 5 Gear and tow Pulleys It is show in the Figure 8.2, all the Gears have a relation of 1:1. Thus when the motor gives a turn, all the Gears gives a Turn

Fig. 8.3 Robot pulley system used to move one side of symmetrical movement of all wheels by central wheel moved by electrical motor and measured by encoder.
Fig. 8.3 Robot pulley system used to move one side of symmetrical movement of all wheels by central wheel moved by electrical motor and measured by encoder.

Wheel movement system

The Idea Of the robot Is taken of the Volks Bot Robot, of the model Volks Bot XT , The model Is Ideal for Difficult ways , we only modify the structure internal of the robot, whit our sensors and Accessories

Fig. 8.4 Robot movement in different levels.
Fig. 8.4 Robot movement in different levels.

Motor configuration

In the figure 8.4 We can see the movement of the wheels, the wheel C is fixed while the wheel A and B can UP and Down respectively

The table show how is the movement about wheels A and B

Table 5. Symmetrical movement of 4 bounds mechanism.

A B
UP Down
Down UP

Motor system

The robot counts on 2 motors CD (12V) used to send traction in the bands of the Tires.

Fig. 8.5, Motors position over main structure of fixed body.
Fig. 8.5, Motors position over main structure of fixed body.

Motor operation and transmission ratios

When we want Turn Right, the motor A run Forward and the motor B run backward but if we want turn left the motor B run Backward and the motor A run Forward

These motors will transmit his torque wings rims by means of a system of gears with a relation:

  • 1:1 Rim Motor-gears
  • 1:1 Gear-rim band
Fig. 8.6, Encoder sensor position located in the fixed wheels in rear robot part.
Fig. 8.6, Encoder sensor position located in the fixed wheels in rear robot part.

Encoder

For the location of the robot we counted with two to encoder fig 8.6 located to the flanks of the robot having a relation with the band of 4:1.

Right now, our efforts are focused into finite element analysis for stress forces applied for structural model, to evaluate possible environment conditions where robot will be working in arenas and rescue operations. These results will be presented in our poster session during contest.

8a Reconstruction Corps Ground Rescue Robot

Due to lack of resources in the first stage of the construction of the rescue robot project, building materials played an important role in the development of our robot in the early stages and field tests.

The first challenge was to reconstruct the changing structure of most building materials for this stage of the project selected industrial aluminum profiles (Profile No5), the professional use for such special projects, changes in the motor system replacing all previous by toothed pulleys and toothed bands which would give us a great advantage in pulling the robot.

Material Assemblage

Material Assemblage.

Profile No. 5

Profiles 5 are ideal for lightweight constructions of all kinds. The small exterior dimensions ensure particularly compact jigs, covers and handling equipment. The full functionality of the building kit is retained.

For the reason we decided to use this material because it meets many of our needs for our project. The qualities and tolerances are described to assess the efficiency of this material.

Tolerances of external dimensions and groove position

Tolerances of external dimensions and groove position

Tolerances table with profile edge length measurements
Tolerances table with profile edge length measurements

Tolerances of external dimensions and groove position

Profil edge length Tolerances of external a [mm] dimensions a and
from up to groove position n ± [mm]
0 10 0.10
10 20 0.15
20 40 0.20
40 60 0.30
60 80 0.40
80 100 0.45
100 120 0.50
200 160 0.60
160 240 0.80
240 320 1.50

Groove Dimensions

Groove Dimensions

Groove dimensions diagram
Groove dimensions diagram

Groove Dimensions table

a b c
d e

Core Bore

Core Bore

Core bore specifications diagram
Core bore specifications diagram
Core bore specifications diagram
Core bore specifications diagram

Tensile Loading

Tensile Loading

Tensile loading diagram
Tensile loading diagram

Tensile Loading specifications

Groove form ₹5
Normal Light E 500 N

Torsion

Torsion

Torsion diagram
Torsion diagram

Straightness Tolerance longitudinal

Straightness Tolerance longitudinal

Straightness tolerance diagram
Straightness tolerance diagram

Right-Angled Connections

A series of attachments to the connections right angle profile with the optimum application of clamping force with precision positioning and attachment profiles of each other. The fastening vary according to the transformation effort and the functions required for upgrades of equipment or the displacement of fixation along the slot.

Right-Angled Connections specifications

Length l1 [mm] h1 [mm] h2
up to 1,000 0.7 For every
up to 2,000 1.3 length section of
up to 3,000 1.8 l2 = 300 mm,
up to 4,000 2.2 a maximum
up to 5,000 2.6 deviation of 0.3 mm is
up to 6,000 3.0 allowed

Standard Fastener

The standard connection of the plate ensures optimal application of the load, with profiles that are set correctly on the other.

Fig. 3.1-Standard Fastener
Fig. 3.1-Standard Fastener

Automatic Fastener

Universal connector for power-lock, fits all Profile that can be found on the web. Suitable for profiles that should be moved, then, since the closures are only bolted to a profile. These sets of fixation can be easily installed in existing buildings. The profiles need not be machined in order to use the automatic setting feature with which these tools.

Pulleys and toothed Belts

The toothed pulleys are not dependent on friction to transmit power, allowing minimal stress on the bands. Moreover, by failing to slip between the pulley and the band, there is synchronization between the axles. Among the technological highlights the change in the profiles of the teeth of the pulleys and belts for transmissions offer increasingly silent and durable.

Some bands with modified teeth pulleys can work with standard profile, but others may require compatible toothed pulleys. A recent design incorporates double helical teeth obsolete, offering a quieter transmission, with less vibration and increased efficiency.

The pulleys can have straight teeth step in inches, MXL series (1 / 12 "), XL (1 / 5"), L (3 / 8 "), H (1 / 2"), XH (7 / 8 " ) and XXII (1-1/4 "), or series 3M, 5M, 8M, 14M and 20M, where the digits represent a move in millimeters. Because some pulleys and belts are manufactured with different geometry to the standard, replacing the bands is important to verify that the new bands are consistent with pulleys installed.

Banda toothed gear and pulley used in this project.
Banda toothed gear and pulley used in this project.
Banda toothed gear and pulley used in this project.
Banda toothed gear and pulley used in this project.

Reconstruction of the Robot

Reconstruction of the Robot

Main body of Robot

The material changes too much benefit the project in its design and speed of assembly, Profile No 5 was the material used. The new material provides strength and stability to the robot land, now we will ensure that in the places where our robot ay natural disasters will remain stable and solid in any situation.

Robot body made with material item.
Robot body made with material item.

System Front

This system was made an improvement in design, with which gives us more confidence in the stability and rigidity of our robot.

Each crossing point is attached by bearings that allow you to have a free motion, another section was added which will allow you to drive mechanisms within the system and not outside as presented by the past design.

With the implementation of toothed belts and pulleys we have a very good response in the pull of the mechanisms in the figure shows the manufactured part in SolidWorks2009

Mobile piece of Terrestrial Rescue Robot
Mobile piece of Terrestrial Rescue Robot

Movement system mechanics

The movement that occurs freely and the central axis the basis of this movement, previously only had a single central axis s not caused much instability. The creation of the second central axis was performed with the aim that the robot can carry out search work in places inaccessible to people specialized in finding people, now we have our security robot that no part will be exposed to suffer engine damage in any exhibition or test to perform because the majority of assemblies are inside the structure.

Figure shows how the incorporation of the second central axis is of great importance for the performance of the mechanism.

Shows the importance of making the second axis for movement
Shows the importance of making the second axis for movement

Rescue Robot Model and Views

The Figure shows the robot body, the total size of the robot in real mode is 24 x 30 inches.

Front view of robot.
Front view of robot.

Robot design views

We will show a presentation of front and side views of the robot assembly, and to appreciate better the changes in design. The figure below shows on a hard hitting and will appreciate our Robot in the moving part of the tires are internal mechanisms, protecting them from blows or shocks in the field.

Front view of robot.
Front view of robot.

Robot side view

The figure below show a side view with which we appreciate that the design is constructed from the moving parts and a fixed rear axle. The height of the wheels on the ground is calculated to provide a better performance in field tests where you would cross paths highlight obstacles and deformed.

Side view of the rescue robot model.
Side view of the rescue robot model.

9 Other Mechanisms

The robot counts with pan /tilt integrated camera, mounted over main structure, over it IR temperature sensor, CO₂ sensor and sound microphone. This disposal was for scanning procedure to try to find victims based into space-area delimitation applied into control algorithm to specify state and status victim.

Fig. 9.1 Sensors location point, this part are fitted on fixed mechanism and their objective or focal point is almost fixed without radical movements.
Fig. 9.1 Sensors location point, this part are fitted on fixed mechanism and their objective or focal point is almost fixed without radical movements.

10 Team Training for Operation (Human Factors)

In order to operate the system of the Cuerbot in the movement aspect, it is necessary to know where one is its point of balance and its different movements, as well as its length, speed and the distance of turn in the direction. In addition to its different functions as they are, the form to elevate the dynamic camera, and as is its length of elevation; the form to interpret the values of the different sensors, like: infrared, sensorial sensor of CO2, sensor of temperature, in addition to the proximity sensors that are located in the flanks, to the front and in the back part of the Cuerbot. Essential robot drive teaching is be developed either State Rescue Team and our Team.

11 Possibility for practical application to Real Disaster Site

We are currently working with INVITE program and supported by DGEST sponsoring that consider new projects with new technology and developing, the main goal is to give us tools to put this robot into market, and another thing is that we are working together with Emergency State Services to share training and provides of one robot for community service. Remember our objective is to try to solve a local problem in disaster events.

12 System Cost

System Cost

System cost total

System cost total
Concept (model) Cost per piece
Absolute Encoder $180 usd
Microcontroller $3 usd
Gyroscope $600 usd
Pan and Tilt Camera $150 usd
Wireless camera $80 usd
Netbook $350 usd
IR Temperature Sensor $1250 usd
CO2 Sensor $317 usd
CD Motors for desplacement $25 USD C/U
Batteries $54 USD C/U
Pulley's Band $200 usd
Metal structure to form body $154 usd
Industrial PVC for mechanical support $95 USD
Gears $150 usd
Bearings $15 usd
Lamps $15 usd
IC circuits (average) $10 usd
VHF Hand Radios $60 usd
Access point $95 usd
Proximity Sensors $60 usd
USB Memory 8Gb $40 usd
Accessories $1257 usd
TOTAL COST APROX $5,157 usd

13 Lessons Learned

This is a new experience over develop a small, light and transportable robot because for a real application needs a robot with these facilities. Another important thing is our artificial intelligence application improvement based into embedded technologies, all experiences are good goals for new knowledge for this research group and give us an opportunity to support our bachelor and master degrees related (human resources and specific project related with companies). We will aggregate more info about our experiences when we will be participating in this RoboCup 2011.

References

  1. Adam Jacoff, Elena Messina, Brian A. Weiss, Satoshi Tadokoro, and Yuki Nakagawa, Test Arenas and Performance Metrics for Urban Search and Rescue Robots, Proceedings of the 2003 lEEE/RSJ InU. Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems Las Vegas. Nevada. October 2003, 3396-3403.
  2. Hiroaki Kitano, Satoshi Tadokoro, Koichi Osuka4, RoboCup Rescue Project: Challenges and Benchmark, Proceedings of the 2000 IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems, 1886-1993.
  3. Ashraf Aboshosha, Adaptation of Rescue Robot Behaviour in Unknown Terrains Based on Stochastic and Fuzzy Logic Approaches, Proceedings of the 2003 IEEERSJ lntl. Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems Las Vegas. Nevada ' October 2003, 2859-2864.
  4. Bryan M. Hudock, On the Development of a Novel Urban Search and Rescue Robot, United States Naval Academy, 451-455.
  5. A. Carbone, A. Finzi, A. Orlandini, F.Pirri, G. Ugazio, Situation Aware Rescue Robots, Proceedings of the 2005 IEEE International Workshop on Safety, Security and Rescue Robotics Kobe, Japan, June 2005, 182-188.
  6. H. N. Pishkenari, S. H. Mahboobi, and A. Meghdari, On the Optimum Design of Fuzzy LogicController for Trajectory Tracking Using Evolutionary Algorithms, Proceedings of the 2004 lEEE Conference on Cybernetics and Intelligent SystemsSingapore, 1-3 December, 2004, 660- 665.
  7. Fumitoshi MATSUNO, Satoshi TADOKORO, Rescue Robots and Systems in Japan, Proceedings of the 2004 IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Biomimetics August 22 - 26, 2004, Shenyang, China, 12-20.
  8. Karnik NILESH, Mendel JERRY, Introduction to Type-2 Fuzzy Logic Systems, IEEE Proceedings of Fuzzy Systems, 1998, USA, 915-920.
  9. Bin-Da Liu, Chun-Yueh Huang, Design and Implementation of theTree-Based Fuzzy Logic Controller, IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON SYSTEMS, MAN, AND CYBERNETICS—PART B: CYBERNETICS, VOL. 27, NO. 3, JUNE 1997, USA, 475-487
  10. Chuen LEE, Fuzzy Logic in Control Systems: Fuzzy Logic Controller-Part I, IEEE Transactions on Systems, Man, and Cybernetics, Vol. 20, no. 2 March/April 1990, USA, 404-418
  11. Chuen LEE, Fuzzy Logic in Control Systems: Fuzzy Logic Controller-Part II, IEEE Transactions on Systems, Man, and Cybernetics, Vol. 20, no. 2 March/April 1990, USA, 419-435
  12. Brox M., Gersnoviez A., Sánchez-Solano S., Baturone I., Controlador difuso para problemas de navegación en presencia de obstáculos fijos Proc. XIII Congreso Español de Tecnologías y Lógica Fuzzy, pp. 29-34, Ciudad Real, Sep. 22-29, 2006.
  13. Cabrera A., Sánchez-Solano A., Barriga, Brox P., Moreno-Velo F.J., Baturone I. Plataforma para el Desarrollo de Controladores Difusos como Sistemas Empotrados Proc. XII Congreso Español de Tecnologías y Lógica Fuzzy, pp. 177-182, Jaén, Sep. 15-17, 2004.
  14. http://www.logitech.com/index.cfm/webcam_communications/webcams/devices/3480&cl=us,en, web site at March 2008.
  15. http://www.infokrause.com/camara_vivotek_FD7131_dual_codec_poe_ik.htm , web site at March 2008.
  16. http://www.pc-adictos.com.ar/hardware/de/tc-320.html, web site at March 2008.
  17. https://www.sealevel.com/uploads/manuals/3544.pdf, web site at March 2008.
  18. http://www.pc104.org/cgi-bin/detail_pc104.cgi, web site at March 2008.
  19. http://us.kontron.com/downloads/manual/BQBAM113.pdf, web site at March 2008.
  20. http://www.analog.com, web site at October 2008.
  21. http://www.maxim-ic.com, web site at October 2008.
  22. http://www.imse.cnm.es/Xfuzzy/, web site at November 2008.
  23. http://www.ohloh.net/p/SimForge, web site at January 2009.
  24. http://www.ida.liu.se/labs/pelab/modelica/OpenModelica.html, web site at January 2009.
  25. http://www.volksbot.de/robots.php, web site at January 2009.