Advanced 3D vision systems for autonomous robot operations.

Holometrics, Inc. produces a family of patented 3-D Vision System products capable of significantly enhancing the operational effectiveness of law enforcement remotely operated, mobile robot. We have demonstrated this capability during a joint program we have with the San Diego Metro Arson Strike Team, a division of the San Diego Fire Department. The MAST unit mission is to provide a capability to respond to bomb threats, hostage situations, earthquakes, etc., using a remotely controlled robot to reduce exposing their personnel to dangerous situations. All of the MAST personnel involved in the joint program gave the 3-D system extremely high marks in terms of its utility in improving their operational capabilities. This paper summarizes the technical and operational characteristics of Holometrics 3-D vision systems. Particular emphasis is placed on describing those technical features that enhance mobile robot applications in explosive material handling/disposal, inspecting buildings that have been damaged by an earthquake or explosion, defining areas or buildings possibly involved in the illegal deployment of weapons of mass destruction providing crucial information inside of buildings involving hostage or terrorist activities, and many others. The 3D imagery of a large scene can be captured in just 2 - 3 seconds. The image is immediately stored thus preserving perishable scene conditions before changes occur - e.g, lighting, weather, removal of dead or injured structural collapse, etc. This technology is acceptable by the courts since the underlying theory for these systems is tested, they have been subjected to peer review, error rates are known and understood, and the technology is accepted by the scientific community.