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The Naviq sensor can sense angular orientation over a magnetic tape line. | Credit score: Naviq
Naviq as we speak unveiled the MTS160, a magnetic information sensor for cell robots. Magnetic steering includes putting adhesive magnetic tape on the ground, which the robotic senses and follows all through the power.
The brand new, patented sensor delivers angle measurement with 1-degree precision and place accuracy inside 1 mm (0.039 in.). Naviq claimed that this twin performance offers precision for each orientation and positioning, considerably enhancing the navigation capabilities of automated guided autos (AGVs).
For robots that observe a magnetic line round a facility, conventional magnetic information sensors solely present one-dimensional place data, indicating how a lot the robotic deviates from the middle of the trail. The frequent technique for steering correction in robotics is proportional management, the place the steering adjustment is proportional to the error detected between the robotic’s measured place and the specified place.
Naviq guarantees quicker curve following
The MTS160’s unique approach detection permits the robotic to evaluate the curvature of the observe, mentioned Naviq. This permits the robotic to tell apart between minor trajectory changes wanted on straight paths and extra proactive steering for navigating curves.
This improved path-tracking precision permits robots to observe designated paths with enhanced accuracy and to navigate bends at greater speeds, mentioned the Geneva, Switzerland-based firm.
Whereas magnet tape-following robots require that the power be modified earlier than the robotic can begin operations, modifying the trail is so simple as transferring the tape, a activity requiring no particular abilities. The paths are much like railroad tracks, and the autos keep on the trail, Naviq famous.
The corporate added that the MT160 helps markers with reversed polarity to sign areas requiring pace changes, upcoming forks, and merges, and proximity to cease areas equivalent to charging or loading/unloading stations. As well as, Naviq has created an algorithm for easy course modifications at junctions.
The MT160 can operate as the first steering sensor at much less expense than imaginative and prescient programs or complement laser or imaginative and prescient navigation programs for exact, last-millimeter positioning, mentioned the corporate.
MTS160 helps CAN bus interface
The MTS160 options an M8 four-pin watertight connector for energy and sign transmission. It helps CAN bus and RS232 interfaces, guaranteeing compatibility with all PLC manufacturers and microcomputers, mentioned Naviq.
The system’s compact design, measuring solely 165 x 35 x 25 mm (6.4 x 1.3 x 0.9 in.), makes it simple to include into robots for very slim aisles, private mobility shuttles, and robotics digital camera dollies, it asserted.
Naviq mentioned it designed its consumer interface for comfort, that includes RGB standing LEDs for visible suggestions on tape and marker detection. A Net-based utility requires no set up and connects the sensor to a smartphone or PC by way of USB port for straightforward configuration, testing, logging, and monitoring.
The utility additionally helps automated firmware updates., and the inner circuitry can routinely run self-tests to make sure secure operation and dependable efficiency, mentioned Naviq.
The MTS160 lists for $495 (€480) per unit.

Naviq describes magnetic steering because the trade workhorse due to the benefit of path modification. Supply: Naviq