Field Robotics Projects
Research and Development in Field Robotics
Project: Development and Construction of Exhibition Pieces for “ROBOT: Intelligent Machines” Exhibition
Robotics represents an innovation that systematically integrates knowledge from science, technology, and various other disciplines. Robots also possess a unique and engaging appearance that easily captures attention. Thus, robots serve as an excellent and captivating medium for teaching children about mechanical systems, science, and technology in an enjoyable manner.
Recognizing the importance of conveying scientific and technological knowledge through robots, the National Science Museum Organization (NSM), a body responsible for developing and managing science museums in Thailand, conceived the idea of establishing a permanent exhibition about robots. Titled “ROBOT: Intelligent Machines,” this exhibition aims to showcase the internal structures of robots, the operation of various mechanisms, control systems, precision, and the intelligence of robots.
The Institute of Field Robotics (FIBO) was therefore commissioned to design and construct robots to serve as educational tools for visitors to the exhibition. The research team undertook the design and creation of five specific robots for this project, detailed as follows:
1. Humanoid Robot: This robot is designed to display its internal structure. It has a human-like appearance and can perform pre-programmed movements and gestures.
2. Greeting Robot: This robot is used to publicize the robot exhibition area. It can move in controlled directions, greet, and interact with exhibition visitors.
3. Automated Robotic Arm: This robot demonstrates high-precision operational systems. It automatically throws basketballs into a hoop at a target position.
4. Hand-Controlled Robotic Arm: This robot showcases intelligent systems. It can strategize and play the OX (Tic-Tac-Toe) game, interacting with exhibition visitors. The robot automatically places its marker on the board, alternating with commands from visitors to place their markers at desired positions.
5. Rescue Robot: This robot is equipped with cameras and various sensors, demonstrating the functionality of its control system and sensors.
Project: Development of a Remote Control Survey Boat System and 3D Environmental Mapping System
The Institute of Field Robotics (FIBO) is leveraging “Robotic Mapping” technology to enhance the efficiency of depth surveys. This project focuses on developing a remote control and tracking system for survey boats to aid in data collection. Additionally, it involves creating a processing system to generate maps (such as 3D images of riverbanks, riverbeds, and structures along waterways).
This initiative will lead to more efficient surveys, improving both data accuracy and operational convenience. It also aims to reduce the reliance on expensive imported technologies.
In the future, this system can be applied to various other fields, including:
3D mapping of structures and terrain for flood level studies.
Surveying coastal riverbeds for resource management.
Wildfire mapping.
Project: Development of Two Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for Aerial Photogrammetry Mapping
The Hydro and Agro Informatics Institute (HAII), building on its previous collaboration with FIBO for the design and development of small UAVs for aerial surveys, is now aiming to further advance Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) technology.
This new project focuses on research and development to enhance the flight performance of electric-powered UAVs, specifically improving aspects like flight duration and stability against wind forces. It also includes the integration of additional equipment to boost mission efficiency.
For this project, FIBO has developed two UAVs:
UAV #1 (Long-Range Flight Development): This unit is designed for extended flight. The focus is on testing and optimizing its propulsion and control systems to specifically match the airframe, thereby maximizing energy efficiency for significantly longer flight time
UAV #2 (Mapping Mission Support System Development): This UAV focuses on developing systems to assist with image recording, along with support systems for take-off and landing that require shorter distances than conventional methods.
Project: Design and Construction of Aircraft for Atmospheric Dust Sample Collection
The Faculty of Environment at Kasetsart University sought to survey atmospheric dust for in-depth meteorological studies in Thailand. This required collecting dust data at various altitudes using portable dust sampling equipment.
To achieve this, the Institute of Field Robotics (FIBO) was tasked with designing and constructing aircraft capable of carrying dust sampling equipment into the atmosphere to collect data at specified, varying altitudes. FIBO successfully designed and built a total of four aircraft for this purpose.
These aircraft can ascend to a designated altitude, hover to collect data, and then return the sampling equipment to the ground. Each flight allows for continuous data collection for 10 minutes. Furthermore, the aircraft can precisely identify their altitude from the ground during data collection and adjust their altitude for different sampling rounds.
Project: Development of a Public Relations Robot for the Bank of Thailand
The Bank of Thailand commissioned the Institute of Field Robotics (FIBO) to design and develop a public relations robot. This robot is capable of greeting event attendees, demonstrating how to check for counterfeit banknotes, and interacting with visitors using straightforward artificial intelligence technology.
The robot designed and developed by FIBO is a Semi-Humanoid robot. Its upper body resembles a human and can perform human-like gestures. The lower body is a three-wheeled base equipped with a drive system and steering, allowing for agile movement. It can navigate over obstacles and uneven terrain, and is also suitable for outdoor use.
The robot can perform various gestures using gesture recognition techniques, pick up banknotes, and demonstrate simple methods for checking banknotes. It can speak in Thai sentences and convey information through a display screen installed on its body.
Project: Prototype Robotic for In-Pipe Inspection
Thai Oil Public Company Limited recognizes the crucial role of automation in enhancing the efficiency of equipment maintenance within its production processes. Given that pipeline transportation systems are vital to the company’s operations, and internal pipe inspection is a particularly challenging task for human workers, Thai Oil has commissioned the Institute of Field Robotics (FIBO).
FIBO’s role is to conduct a feasibility study on integrating automation into this process and to develop an In-Pipe Inspection Robot. This initiative aims to reduce risks, errors, and the difficulties associated with manual labor, ultimately boosting Thai Oil’s production capabilities and efficiency.
Design and Construction of Hybrid Remotely Operated Underwater Vehicle for Structural Inspection Tasks (Phase 1 : Project pre-study)
The Geology and Petroleum Engineering Research Department at the PTT Technology and Research Institute, PTT Public Company Limited, is keen to develop tools and equipment, and to build local capabilities in inspecting and surveying underwater structures within Thailand.
Under this initiative, they have commissioned the Institute of Field Robotics (FIBO) to research and develop a prototype testing machine: the Design and Construction of Hybrid Remotely Operated Underwater Vehicle for Structural Inspection Tasks. This ROV will be used for autonomous surveying and inspection of deep-sea underwater structures.
The project aims to reduce costs associated with hiring external companies and to build PTT’s internal capacity for maintaining, inspecting, and surveying its subsea infrastructure.
Project: Development of a Robot for Mine and Explosive Ordnance Detection
The ongoing survey and inspection of areas potentially contaminated with landmines is a continuous and extensive task. The large areas to be covered lead to lengthy inspection times and pose significant safety risks to personnel involved. Therefore, the Institute of Field Robotics (FIBO) proposed a method for surveying such high-risk areas using an “Explosive Ordnance Survey, Inspection, and Disposal Robot” to enhance the efficiency of bomb detection and disposal, and to mitigate associated risks.
Consequently, the Engineer Department, Phanu Rangsi Camp, has commissioned the Institute of Field Robotics (FIBO) to develop a robot for detecting mines or explosive ordnance. The project involves designing and developing an efficient robot for area surveying and detecting landmines or explosive ordnance. This robot will replace human personnel in operations, driven by the objective of reducing risks and potential casualties among officers working in areas with a risk of encountering explosive devices, as well as preventing harm to the general public.