Integration of a new safety system on a commercial mobile robot platform

Abstract

[EN] This project outlines the process of designing and customizing a mobile robot based on the RB-Vogui model from Robotnik Automation S.L., a leading global manufacturer of mobile robots and manipulators. The primary aim of this project is to meet specific customer requirements by integrating a novel safety system dependent on an external PLC connected to the customer’s LIDAR scanners. In addition to the new safety system, the project encompasses the upgrade of the robot’s software to support ROS2 middleware, reflecting an important transition for Robotnik’s software systems. This upgrade involves not only the integration of the standard robot software based on ROS1 but also a comprehensive research and development phase to enable the simultaneous operation of ROS1 and ROS2 within the same system. The project further involves a complete 3D design of the robot, assembling and testing individual components, and integrating additional software to accommodate the new safety system and the customer’s sensors. Systematic tests in both simulated and real environments are also integral to the project, aiming to ensure successful integration hat meets both the customer’s and Robotnik’s standards and specifications. The future vision of this project entails integrating the newly developed safety system into the company’s database for future usage and running extensive tests in diverse environments, including the customer’s infrastructure. By undertaking this project, the goal is to deliver a customized robot equipped with an advanced safety system, facilitating a safer, more adaptable, and functional mobile robotic solution.