Development of the 3-dimensional ultrasonic sensor for move robots using electric sparks

Abstract

Mobile robots often have ultrasonic sensors to detect objects and environment. Sensors are arranged around the robot′s bodies or scanned by some actuators. However, they have problems that they obtain only 2-D information or take much time to scan. Then, 3-D ultrasonic sonar system that can acquire 3-D reflect points at one time is proposed. An Electric spark that works as a non-directional point source of ultrasound is utilized to achieve this system.