MIT robot uses radio waves to find and retrieve hidden objects
The system combines RF signals with computer vision
Robotic perception
RF-Grasp is comprised of a camera on the robot’s wrist and a separate RF reader. Together, they collect tracking data and create a visual map of the environment.
The system first pings the object’s RF tag to identify its location. It then determines the optimal path around the obstacles to reach the item.
As the robot gets closer to the object and starts manipulating it, computer vision provides more precise directions.
In tests, RF-Grasp successfully identified and moved objects that were concealed behind packaging and other obstacles. The researchers say the system completed the tasks with about half as much movement as similar robots equipped with only a camera.
The system does depend on target objects being tagged with RFIDs. But the widespread adoption of these chips as barcode replacements in retail, manufacturing, and warehousing means RF-Grasp could already have a practical impact.
You can read the study paperhere.
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Story byThomas Macaulay
Thomas is a senior reporter at TNW. He covers European tech, with a focus on AI, cybersecurity, and government policy.Thomas is a senior reporter at TNW. He covers European tech, with a focus on AI, cybersecurity, and government policy.
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