Willow Garage

About: Willow Garage is a based out in . It is known for research contribution in the topics: Robot & Mobile robot. The organization has 76 authors who have published 191 publications receiving 28617 citations.

Andreas Nüchter (2009): 3D Robotic Mapping: The Simultaneous Localization and Mapping Problem with Six Degrees of Freedom (Springer Tracts in Advanced Robotics 52)

Abstract: The book 3D Robotic Mapping by Andreas Nüchter represents an excellent reference for any roboticist working in the area of Simultaneous Localization and Mapping, especially those interested in 3D map building. Throughout its 8 chapters, the reader is first introduced with the basic concepts of 3D data perception and sensor devices, followed by more advanced topics such as 3D range image registration and global loop closure for SLAM systems. Additionally, several higher level semantic interpretation methods are presented and evaluated for the purpose of scene and object localization. The theoretical methods presented in the book are solid and anchored in multiple real world experiments. The book’s intended target audience is large, ranging from undergraduate students to postdoctoral researchers keen on learning or working on this topic. By providing the underlying mathematical explanations and proofs for the 3D geometric problems tackled, the reader is most of the time given the complete information required to understand and even implement the presented concepts. The added advantage of this compact formulation is that one doesn’t need

Throwing voices: the psychological impact of the spatial height of projected voices

Abstract: Communication mediating technologies are throwing our voices away from our bodies in situations ranging from voice conference meetings to mass presentations. Physical height is known to influence dominance in interactions between people. This study explores how audio projection technologies also influence dominance behaviors between people. In an exploratory 2 (between-participants: own voice location set spatially high vs. low) x 2 (within-participants: voice agent set spatially high vs. low) mixed-design experiment (N=64), we investigated the psychological effects of voice location upon collaborative decision-making interactions between people and voice agents. We found evidence that suggests the dominating effects of project voices' coming from above can be mitigated by hearing one's own voice projected from above.

Navigation in Partially Observed Dynamic Roadmaps

Abstract: We consider robot navigation in environments consisting of a known static map, but where dynamic obstacles of varying and unknown lifespans appear and disappear over time. We describe a roadmap-based formulation of the problem that takes the sensing and transition uncertainty into account, and an efficient online planner for this problem. The planner naturally displays behaviors such as persistence and obstacle timeouts, and is able to make inferences about obstacle types even with impoverished sensors.

Integration of Visuomotor Learning, Cognitive Grasping and Sensor-Based Physical Interaction in the UJI Humanoid Torso

Abstract: We present a high-level overview of our research efforts to build an intelligent robot capable of addressing real-world problems. The UJI Humanoid Robot Torso integrates research accomplishments under the common framework of multimodal active perception and exploration for physical interaction and manipulation. Its main components are three subsystems for visuomotor learning, object grasping and sensor integration for physical interaction. We present the integrated architecture and a summary of employed techniques and results. Our contribution to the integrated design of an intelligent robot is in this combination of different sensing, planning and motor systems in a novel framework.

Auditory priming for upcoming events

Abstract: Psychologically preparing for upcoming events can be a difficult task, particularly when switching social contexts, e.g., from office work to a family event. To help with such transitions, the audio priming system uses pre-recorded audio messages to psychologically prepare a person for an upcoming event. In this system, audio priming is being used to prepare a person's state of mind to improve one's sociability in the upcoming social context.