As far as robotics is concerned, that technology is pretty advanced. However, one major problem that experts face is mapping and localization as far as robotics are concerned. This is where SLAM comes to the rescue. In this article, we are going to take a look at the importance of simultaneous localization and mapping. Read on to find out more.

Introduction to SLAM

Basically, SLAM is a good alternative to GPS and works somewhat similarly. This technology guides robots so that they can be aware of the environment and move in the right direction while performing their functions. Although GPS is an effective mapping system, there are some hurdles in the way of its functionality.

Due to the limitations of GPS, experts now use simultaneous localization and mapping. This technology has proven to be a great alternative to GPS as it offers a lot of advantages.

Functionality

Since robots feature memory banks that have huge capacities, they can continue to map their location using SLAM. Apart from this, GPS does not guarantee an accurate position of the robot. However, as far as positioning is concerned, SLAM is the best choice. It aligns sensor data on multiple levels for creating a map.

If you think that this alignment is not a big deal, you need to think again. The sensor data goes through alignment on a number of levels. This multi-level process makes use of a lot of algorithms. Since this type of processing is quite complex, it requires the power of today's GPUs.

SLAM can help solve a lot of problems in the world of navigation and mapping. For example, this technology can help drones and robots find their way in a closed environment. This is especially more useful where GPS technology cannot work properly.

Actually, SLAM figures out and determines position and orientation for robots with respect to the objects in close proximity.

Cameras, Sensors, and Data

As far as data collection is concerned, SLAM systems use multiple cameras. Based on this consolidated data, the system can create maps for easy navigation. Besides, with the help of sensors, it is possible for robots and drones to enjoy a greater level of accuracy and sturdiness. Therefore, these machines can perform well even in adverse conditions.

Technology

With the help of these technologies, cameras take up to 90 images per second. Besides, they also record a lot of LIDAR images. Therefore, robots and drones can be much better aware of their surroundings.

Different systems use these images for plotting and mapping efficiently. Since these calculations require supreme processing power, special graphic processing units are used for maximum performance. These units are known as GPUs, which are used in computers for rendering videos and playing games.

Long story short, this is a brief introduction to the importance of Simultaneous Localization and Mapping. Hopefully, now you have a much better understanding of these systems.



Source by Shalini M