Optimal path planning for service robotics in a convention setting
CrossWing Inc. has been developing a service robotics platform called VirtualMe, which is a multifunctional mobile robot base that can be configured for many applications. CrossWing is attempting to have the VirtualMe used as an interactive guide/mascot for convention settings. The goal of this project is to develop autonomous navigation capabilities for VirtualMe that would allow it to function as a kind of mobile information kiosk that can serve as many people as possible. We believe that this added functionality would be of use and add an interesting dimension to the gatherings which invariably occur at public events. Benefits to Crosswing include an added capability for VirtualMe that will allow them to expand into new markets. They plan to introduce the interactive kiosk at a major international sporting event, where they will have the opportunity to showcase their technology to the world.