Enhancing Autonomous Robotics with Advanced Sensing Technologies
Integration of Advanced Sensing Systems
Our research, in collaboration with the ETH Zurich's Robotic Systems Lab (RSL), continues to push the boundaries of autonomous robot development and environmental monitoring robots.
The successful integration of our Transpector® MPH Mass Spectrometer into the legged robot ANYmal® has opened new avenues for in-situ gas analysis and industrial and environmental monitoring. This innovation allows the robot to provide valuable real-time in-situ data on gas concentrations in harsh environments safeguarding human lives. Read the full article about the integration of our mass spectrometer onto the robot and the communication between the robot and our mass spectrometer in our initial article.
In our latest demonstration, testing was conducted outdoors at ETH Robotics System Lab (RSL) terrace in Zurich. The compact mass spectrometer system has improved its hardware integration to the robot with 4 dampened attachment points to reduce vibrations. It is powered through the robo’s battery, allowing for 1 hour of autonomy. The robot communicates with the mass spectrometer and integrates the measured data into the operator’s visualization interface. In the video below, as the ARAMMIS (Autonomous Robots for Area Mapping, Monitoring, and In-situ Sensing) robot approaches a leak of carbon dioxide, the gas concentration for mass 44 amu is observed to increase. This CO2 concentration data is visualized in real time through a digital twin which is created using the depth cameras and lidar data of the robot.
We are now ready for further demonstrations and are preparing the legged robot for a space analog field campaign to further demonstrate autonomous in-situ gas concentration and robustness of the integrated design.
Video by ETH Zurich's Robotic Systems Lab - ANYmal D legged robot + Transpector MPH MS
Looking Forward
At INFICON, our dedication to innovation and collaboration is leading to important advancements in autonomous robotics. By leveraging our expertise in mass spectrometry and working closely with ETH Zurich's Robotic Systems Lab, we are developing practical solutions for real-world challenges.
The future of autonomous sensing technologies is bright, and we are excited to be part of this transformative journey.
Interested in Collaborating with us?
Let us know if you are looking for a solution in a difficult and challenging environment, or if you want to collaborate on any of our projects.
Read more about our other research projects
Overview on research projects with partners like NASA and ETH Zurich on future technology. We strive to advance innovation and push technological boundaries.
In collaboration with ETH Zurich's Robotic Systems Lab, we are working on a project named ARAMMIS – Autonomous Robots for Area Mapping, Monitoring, and In-situ Sensing.
As experts in gas sensing and vacuum measurements in many industries including semiconductor, energy and security, our teams are always looking for the “what’s next” in innovation.