Colloquium Details
Computer Science Challenges in Robotics Development
| Author: | Steve Richards Acroname Robotics |
|---|---|
| Date: | October 30, 2008 |
| Time: | 15:30 |
| Location: | 220 Deschutes Hall, University of Oregon |
| Host: | Art Farley |
Abstract
Mention robots and you get interpretations as varied as space vehicles, walking humanoids, manufacturing arms, and toys. All these developments share the ability to sense and respond to the environment, and all rely more and more on sophisticated software for planning, sensor interpretation, control, and autonomy. This discussion identifies some of the key areas of research and development in the software components of robotic systems. Included are some live demonstrations of robots and sensors to motivate some of the challenging computer science problems. Problems discussed include handling multiple noisy signals from sensors, developing ?fuzzy? maps based on probability models, and distributed tasks (swarms) with massively redundant systems. Since much of the present research can be managed in both physical and simulated environments, we will also discuss the challenges in simulation fidelity for accurate physical modelling. The conclusion will be an unapologetic pitch for the seminar in embedded robotics control programming I will be offering winter term.
Biography
Steve Richards is President and Founder of Acroname Robotics. In his role, he directs the company and coordinates product development and design efforts. He is a University of Oregon Alumnus with degrees in Computer Science, Mathematics, and (half jokingly) Track and Field. He has worked in the commercial and scientific software communities since graduating in 1990, and in 1994 he founded Acroname Robotics in Boulder, Colorado. Acroname provides components, information, and design engineering to roughly 25,000 customers worldwide in the areas of automation, robotics, and sensor research. Customers including NASA, Intel, Apple, and research labs worldwide that have come to depend on the resources provided by Acroname.