Linux-Based RoboCar is Targeted at Test Applications

by Sam Dean - Jun. 17, 2009Comments (0)

ZMP, a Tokyo-based company is working on a Linux-based automotive robotics platform that it says "provides the required tools to study various subjects such as applied robotic technology, autonomous movement, communication between vehicles or interaction between cars and humans." The model shown here is built at 1/10th scale, and is intended for researchers to study in preparation for experiments with car robotics. It's surprisingly sophisticated, too. Here's what's under, and around the hood.

The ZMP RoboCar includes:

A complete environment detection platform--Stereo camera image processing module, infrared distance sensors, small size laser range finder.

An electric car scale model--Electric car system, MATLAB/Simulink interface, wireless remote control.

User applications--Built-in OS, communication with PC applications, wireless communication with various devices.

The RoboCar measures 17 x 7.7 x 8.4 inches, and costs a hefty $7,000. There is a Geode LX800 processor on board, running a lightweight version of embedded Linux, according to LinuxDevices. ZMP plans to manufacture only 200 units this year, and you can see a larger view below.

For more on open source-based robotics efforts, see our coverage here, here, and here.