A class of autonomous robots prepared for unfriendly sunny environment

Abstract

We present an electrical caterpillar autonomous robot demonstrator, which consists of two independent tracks with an operational platform, a system with photovoltaic panels for converting solar energy into electricity, and a system for connecting different devices to the robot chassis. One goal is to reduce operational costs in terms of fulfilling the missions and maintaining safe human operations in unfriendly environments. Other goals, imbedded in the demonstrator's design, are: mobility, lowered energy consumption, the usage of ecological energy, and an increased energetic independence. These characteristics would allow the development of a class of robots that may be used in unfriendly and isolated areas, in which solar energy is adequate. Yet another goal is to develop a database documenting how the demonstrator operates under various conditions. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.