Sensors for Legged Mobile Robots

The article presents a survey of sensors relevant for mobile robot navigation and their sensing principles. The sensors surveyed include range sensors, inertial systems and positioning systems. There are many applications, from different sectors that could profit from this type of technology: autonomous mobile platforms for materials handling in industry, warehouses, hospitals, etc.; forestry cutting and undergrowth management equipment; autonomous fire-fighting machines; mining machinery; advanced electrical wheel chairs; autonomous cleaning machines; security and surveillance robots. Advanced sensor systems which are now emerging in different activities from the health care services to the transportation sector and domestic services, will significantly increase the capabilities of autonomous vehicles and will enlarge their application potential.

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