RoboTech Vision has developed a new Caster indoor robotic platform

December 17, 2020  |  Development

After years of AI software developing and testing on different types of robotic platforms, RoboTech Vision has decided to start building its own robotic portfolio that will also be available for sale. The first platform is the Caster robot, which takes its name from its unique chassis that is particularly suited for indoor premises.

RoboTech Vision develops different types of autonomous navigation algorithms. In an effort to develop universal software that would be suitable for different tasks and device types, the company tested its algorithms on two platforms. One was the Androver II robot with a Double Ackerman chassis, which is entirely developed by RoboTech Vision. The second platform was the Husky A200 mobile robot with a differential chassis from the company Clearpath Robotics. RoboTech Vision has decided to develop its own, commercial solutions now. The first is the Caster differential robot, completely developed by RoboTech Vision.

Quiet, durable and agile

The Caster consists of two driven and two supporting wheels that are large enough to overcome uneven surfaces such as door thresholds. Due to its IP protection, the device is mainly designed for indoor use, but its construction and maintenance-free drives can also cope with paved roads outdoors. The robot is also predestined for indoors because of its agility. It can turn 180° on the spot, making it suitable also for smaller rooms. The advantage of the robot is also its cost-effectiveness.

Thanks to its precision, the robot can be used for various types of tasks. Its application possibilities are also extended by the large load-bearing surface, which can be loaded with a 75-kilogram load. Various equipment such as a robotic arm or other devices can be added on the robot as needed. With its dimensions, the Caster can also pass through doors without any problems. Furthermore, the robot is quiet thanks to its gearless drives and does not disturb its surroundings with excessive noise.

R&D and autonomous

One example of using a platform like this is also a mobile disinfection solution that includes a Caster chassis, a 500 W UVC germicidal lamp and a 360° camera that recognizes people thanks to AI. Optional equipment is also available for the robot, which includes the RTV Teleop app for controlling the robot or a Wifi extension to increase the range when controlling it remotely. There is also a GPS u-blox RTK, an IMU or a sensor developed by RoboTech Vision called the RTV sensor Box, which are used for autonomous movement of the robot. The Autonomous Caster is one of the available versions of the robot, which additionally includes our AON algorithm adapted for indoors.

Robot Caster is also available as an R&D platform or teleoperator. The R&D platform is a basic chassis suitable for universities or research institutions that plan to develop and use the robot according to their own needs. The teleoperator version is controlled by a joystick, making it suitable as a service or exploration robot, for example. RoboTech Vision also focuses on customised solutions, therefore, algorithms or robotic platforms can be modified according to the type of task. The company also plans to introduce other robotic platforms that will have different functions and be designed for other environments.