ST Microelectronics and Waseda University Humanoid Robotics Institute unveil a two-wheel inverted pendulum robot
ST Microelectronics and the Waseda University Humanoid Robotics Institute (HRI) have announced the development of a high-performance two-wheel inverted pendulum robot, called WV-1 (Waseda wheeled Vehicle-No.1).
This pendulum robot is the result of an ongoing cooperation for the research and development of technology and solutions for innovative humanoid robots and medical-care robot systems. The WV-1 will be displayed at the ST booth (Booth No. 8K26) at CEATEC JAPAN 2008 to be held at the ‘Makuhari Messe’ in Chiba Prefecture.
ST Microelectronics and HRI are cooperating to use semiconductor know-how to promote the speedier development of innovative humanoids and medical-care robotic systems, involving researchers and development engineers from both ST Microelectronics and HRI.
ST Microelectronics will become a supplier to HRI for semiconductor products. ST Microelectronics will also furnish HRI with the leading-edge semiconductor prototypes, to conduct advanced evaluations of possible humanoid and medical-care robotic applications. Robotics Technology (RT) is a fundamental technology for the sustainable development of human society in the twenty-first century.
The Robotics technology can be widely applied in manufacturing industries, in nursing care and medical treatment, and in industries confronted by food and environmental issues. HRI have been researching and developing advanced intelligent robots through the integration of machine technology and information technology. The introduction of cutting-edge microelectronics technology is essential for the realisation of such robots.
The WV-1 is a two-wheeled robot on which a pole with weights is installed in an inverted fashion on a pedestal. A feedback system, controlled with the STM32, ARM Cortex-M3 based 32-bit MCU and the LIS344ALH 3-axis digital acceleration sensor allows the robot to move while maintaining its balance.
The MCU rapidly computes the angle of robot body incline, angular velocity and other sensor data enabling the motor to constantly generate optimum torque, which allows the robot to continue moving smoothly without tipping over. Potential applications for this inverted pendulum robot control technology include postural control functions for humanoids and other devices.
HRI have received a grant from ‘the project for reinforcement of development technologies for robotics’ from The Robotics Industry Development Council. The grant was used for the development of the WV-1. Additionally, HRI is now working on plans to commercialise the robot.
8-Oct-2008