Biologically inspired transportation: a distributed intelligent conveyor

Lead Research Organisation: University of Manchester
Department Name: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Abstract

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Description The work developed methodologies for distributed object manipulation and associated distributed processing. The tasks are carried out in a decentralised manner, in a cellular system (a grid of simple, interconnected components, with no central processor/controller, and using an array of simple up/down actuators). We have demonstrated a complete software framework, allowing the development of control strategies for object manipulation using cellular processor/actuator arrays. Using this framework we have demonstrated ability to collectively carry out a complex task - e.g. object sorting based on size - in a distributed manner, where both processing and manipulation is carried out by arrays of simple components. We have also developed hardware prototypes of new distributed processor architectures, as well as a prototype robotic distributed manipulation system.
Exploitation Route The simulation tools and robotic system will be used in further projects, we are making these technologies available to interested users. We are also taking further the work on cellular processors. This has been a far-reaching project, the ideas of distributed manipulation and control require further research before being applicable in industrial context. We are also exploring the possibility of engaging with visual artists - we think the unique distributed array manipulator offers intriguing possibilities of creating compelling science-inspired art works.
Sectors Agriculture, Food and Drink,Electronics,Manufacturing, including Industrial Biotechology,Other
 
Description Royal Academy of Engineering/Leverhulme Trust Senior Research Fellowship
Amount £46,000 (GBP)
Organisation Royal Academy of Engineering 
Sector Charity/Non Profit
Country United Kingdom
Start 09/2015 
End 08/2016
 
Description ETH Zurich 
Organisation ETH Zurich
Country Switzerland 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution We provide expertise and vision sensors hardware
Collaborator Contribution Expertise on vision algorithms, development of software
Impact Research papers on applications of vision sensors
Start Year 2015