Functions of Mobile-Robot Step-On Interface

To improve HFAMRO-1 mobile robot maneuverability and safety, we added a step-on interface (SOI) to direct robotic or mechatronic tasks and operations (HFAMRO: “human-friendly amusing” mobile robot). To do so, a projector displays a direction screen on a floor or other surface, and an operator specifies a button showing the selected movement by stepping or pointing. We modified the direction screen so that among buttons displayed on two lines, stepped-on buttons directing movement are displayed only on the lower line. We also shortened retention time and had selected movement executed only when the foot was removed from the stepped-on button. The robot has 2 SOIs and multiple projection screens, and can be controlled from either direction for the same function. We synchronized direction and preliminary-announcement screens to inform passers-by which way the robot would move. Using range scanner data, the robot distinguishes feet from other objects based on size and autonomous movement fusion control to avoid obstacles is implemented.