The PR2 research robot has numerous inputs, joints and degrees of freedom. For work in the outdoors or in lab environments that are dusty, the PR2 needed a garment to keep its actuators and sensors free of particulates and debris.
The
The PR2 research robot has numerous inputs, joints and degrees of freedom. For work in the outdoors or in lab environments that are dusty, the PR2 needed a garment to keep its actuators and sensors free of particulates and debris.
The first idea was a human-based garment for a humanoid object - a hoodie. While it kept the casing and limbs protected and unimpeded, it blocked many sensors.
Rather than continue replicating human fashion, a collar was made that would keep clear of the sensors and limbs. As a lightweight conductive fabric, a small charge would attract dust and particles away from the robot.
Project Credits: Jimmy Sastra, Michael Wetmore, Chris McAdams, Fallon Shrokman