This innovation involves a teleoperated movable camera encapsulated within a spherical shell, capable of capturing a 360-degree view, including the ceiling, in a single frame. The fisheye camera inside the spherical robot converts raw images into distortion-free front-view images, which can be remotely panned and tilted using a mobile app. A communication module can transmit the perspective image to an external device. A robot control and a view control, associated with the external device, can teleoperate the robot and change the view of the perspective image, respectively. This technology is particularly useful for surveillance, reconnaissance, and inspection in indoor, unexplored environments, providing robust protection for its internal components while ensuring high maneuverability.
Figure (1) Image showing an example of the person detection functionality (2) The spherical robot with the fisheye camera
Traditional cameras, especially pan-tilt cameras, cannot capture an environment in its entirety at once and require time to rotate, which is undesirable for capturing movements in all directions simultaneously. Additionally, existing robots often lack the maneuverability and protection needed for certain applications, such as military reconnaissance and inspection in hazardous environments.
- 360-degree view: The fisheye camera captures an entire scene in one frame, including the ceiling, eliminating the need for rotating cameras.
- Spherical design: The spherical shell provides protection and allows the robot to reorient itself automatically – returning to an operational position, if disturbed, making the camera looking upwards.
- Teleoperation: The robot can be remotely controlled, providing flexibility in navigating various environments.
- Virtual panning / tilting: Users can pan and tilt the camera view virtually via a mobile app, enhancing the usability without physical movement.
- Compact and maneuverable: The design ensures the robot is easy to maneuver in narrow or cluttered environments.
- Camera: Fisheye camera with a 220-degree field of view, 1080p resolution, and 30 FPS
- Processor: Raspberry Pi Zero W with built-in WiFi and utility PCB board
- Mechanism: Two-pendulum-based mechanism inside a spherical shell for movement and reorientation
The functionality and all major elements of end use have been achieved, along with the GUI development.
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This innovation can significantly enhance surveillance and inspection capabilities, particularly in military and security applications, providing safer and more efficient methods for data collection and monitoring.
- Military reconnaissance: Enhances the safety and efficiency of gathering intelligence in conflict zones.
- Surveillance and security: Provides comprehensive monitoring capabilities in public and private sectors.
- Hazardous environment inspection: Useful in industries like mining, oil, and gas, where remote inspection of planar areas can prevent human exposure to danger.
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