Anyone with an irrational fear of a pending robot uprising may want to look away, because they have just taken one more step towards autonomy. Piaggio Fast Forward (PFF) and Trimble have announced a proof-of-concept collaboration to enable robots and machines to follow humans and other machines in industrial applications.
Many robots are currently controlled by joysticks operated in person or by telepresence from a remote location, but the new prototype eliminates the need for sole control via a joystick. The smart following technology allows humans to lead robots and machines in dynamic environments. “The follow-me technology by PFF provides an intuitive user experience and opens the door to collaborative robots that can augment the human workforce,” said Aviad Almagor, Division Vice President, Trimble’s Emerging Technologies, in a release.
PFF has componetized the smart following technology developed by PFF’s Gita robot into a stand-alone module called PFFtag. PFF and Trimble have integrated this patent-pending PFFtag smart following module prototype onto a Boston Dynamics Spot robot platform controlled by Trimble’s advanced positioning technology.
With the push of a button, a fused sensor array is activated and paired to a leader who navigates the robot or machine through construction or civil engineering spaces. PFFtag enables external partners to leverage its exclusive algorithms and allow their software to communicate with PFF’s software, enabling a human to control the robot via pairing and improving the robot’s ability to sense direction and velocity as it follows the leader. While on a site walk, waypoints can be dropped with the push of a button. Once trained by following, paths can be repeated by the robot autonomously with the ability to avoid obstacles and respond to a changing environment.
No app, tablet, or special training to operate a joystick is needed. Additionally, multiple robots or machines can be “linked” together like ducklings following their mother to create a platooning effect.
Trimble conducted testing using a Spot robot equipped with Trimble laser scanning or Global Navigation System sensors and PFFtag technology at one of its customer’s sites in Colorado over the course of two months as part of the proof-of-concept. In the future, PFF and Trimble envision robots with PFFtag having the ability to assist construction professionals in their daily workflow, carry heavy equipment, improve efficiency, and enhance worker safety.
Related Stories
Great Solutions | Aug 23, 2016
11 great solutions for the commercial construction market
A roll-up emergency department, next-gen telemedicine center, and biophilic cooling pods are among the AEC industry’s clever ideas and novel innovations for 2016.
Great Solutions | Jan 20, 2016
13 great solutions for commercial construction
As these 13 innovations for the AEC marketplace demonstrate, sometimes a problem can be a good thing.
Great Solutions | Jan 20, 2016
Digitally fabricated concrete formwork pushes the limits of what can be cost-effectively constructed in concrete
Simpson Gumpertz & Heger and CW Keller use 3D modeling and CNC machining to advance concrete construction.
Great Solutions | Jan 20, 2016
Sasaki Associates develops simple yet novel solution for precast concrete complication
Its double-angle cladding anchor maintains the air/water/vapor barrier integrity and continuous insulation while still allowing for the desired versatility of precast panels.
Great Solutions | Jan 20, 2016
Porcelanosa’s solid-surface product, Krion, used to create an elegant retractable ceiling for NY showroom
Typically used for countertops, vanities, and furniture, Krion was used to make 39 panels covering 1,300 sf of ceiling space above the showroom.
Great Solutions | Jan 20, 2016
Skanska’s new app helps construction teams monitor and meet environmental quality standards while renovating hospitals
App allows users to track noise, differential pressure levels, vibration, and dust
Great Solutions | Jan 19, 2016
Concrete innovation: voided biaxial slab slashes weight, saves concrete
System reduces slab dead load by 30% on medical clinic project
Great Solutions | Jan 19, 2016
Healing garden doubles as therapy trails
A Boston-area hospital takes the healing garden to the next level.
Great Solutions | Jan 14, 2016
WWII watchtower turned into ‘land yacht’
Architect Siemasko + Verbridge and contractor Windover Construction transformed a coastal wartime observation post into an amenity-filled guesthouse.
Great Solutions | Jan 12, 2016
Sprinkler system does double duty
Two innovations tap into the multi-use potential for fire/life safety infrastructure.