Amanda Prorok, Assistant Professor and University Lecturer, from the Department of Computer Science and Technology at Cambridge University, runs a research lab designing algorithms for coordinating systems composed of multiple autonomous robots.
The Issue: Amanda Prorok approached Target3D when she was seeking to track multiple vehicles in order to feedback information to algorithms to help control the vehicles autonomously and was struck by a lack of available low-cost options. She was using off-the-shelf RC cars which would be retro fitted with control boards, servos, and Raspberry Pis to enable this project research.
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| The fleet of miniature cars take to the track |
This video elaborates on the design of Amanda Prorok’s miniature robotic car, the Cambridge Minicar, as well as the fleet’s control architecture:
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| The YouTube video elaborates on the experiment |
The experimental testbed allowed the team to implement state-of-the-art driver models as well as autonomous control strategies, and test their validity in a real, physical multi-lane setup. Through experiments on a miniature highway, Amanda and her team were able to tangibly demonstrate the benefits of cooperative driving on multi-lane road topographies. The setup paves the way for indoor large-fleet experimental research.
"Instrumental"
"Target3D were instrumental in getting this project done in time," Amanda Prorok announced on completion of the project.
For a demo showing how cost effective mocap technology can work for your next project, contact Target3D.