The Strabo software sounds like a good low cost starter navigation module for PC Robotics developers. The navigation software works by having a preloaded map of the room and all obstacles. The robot keeps track of where it is on the map and makes request calls on how to navigate to other areas of the map. The software will automatically plot the best course from the current position to the desired position and return the path as a series of instructions.
Key features:
Runs as Network Server – Strabo Pathfinderâ„¢ is a network server that accepts HTTP calls written in any language that supports TCP/IP protocols.
Completely Scalable – Maps range in size from 100 to 500 tiles on a side. Users define the legend size, the tiles can be 1 inch, 1 meter or 1 foot for example.
Operate Remotely or Locally – Strabo Pathfinderâ„¢ runs on a Windows computer. If your robot supports windows, Strabo Pathfinderâ„¢, can run directly on it. Otherwise, install it on a network server and connect to it using WI-FI, Bluetooth or any other wireless communications system.
SLAM – Strabo Pathfinderâ„¢ supports Simultaneous Location And Mapping for creating maps in real time and helping the robot find it’s current location using input from ultrasonic or infrared range finders. If you’re using image recognition software, you can enhance the localization capabilities by marking the know locations of objects and using an on board camera to recognize these objects.
Requirements
Server: Windows XP, 2000, ME, 98
Client: Wireless tcp/ip if not run locally
Strabo Pathfinderâ„¢ can be found here at Fusion Robotics.
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Trossen Robotics has no affiliation with Fusion Robotics and has not reviewed or tested this software. We make no claims to the quality of the software and only provide this post for it’s informational value. If anyone has reviewed the software please feel free to post a comment about it here or in the forums under the navigation section.
