Sonair Revolutionizes Robot Safety with 3D Ultrasonic Sensor
Oslo, Norway-based Sonair has developed a groundbreaking 3D ultrasonic sensor designed to enhance robotic safety in human spaces. The innovative ADAR (acoustic detection and ranging) sensor uses high-frequency sound waves to provide robots with a three-dimensional view of their surroundings.
According to Knut Sandven, co-founder and CEO of Sonair, the sensor's technology is based on the principle that humans use multiple senses to perceive their environment. "Perception for a human what we're using the most is our eyes, but we're also using other senses to perceive our environment, our ears and our brain to interpret all our senses," Sandven explained in an interview with TechCrunch. "The same is for robots or autonomous machines. They're using cameras. Cameras are really great to understand the environment, but they're not good for reliably detecting objects under all circumstances."
Sonair's ADAR sensor sends out ultrasound waves and captures how the sound echoes back, providing a 3D view of the surroundings. This data complements a robot's other sensors and cameras, giving its operating system a clearer picture of the environment.
The development of Sonair's 3D ultrasonic sensor comes at a critical time as robots increasingly enter human spaces. Robotics companies will need to rethink their safety protocols to ensure that humans and robots can coexist safely. Sonair's solution is not only more effective but also cheaper than popular LIDAR technology, making it an attractive option for robotics companies.
Industry experts predict that the use of 3D ultrasonic sensors like Sonair's ADAR will become increasingly prevalent in the robotics industry. "This technology has the potential to revolutionize robot safety," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a leading expert in robotics and artificial intelligence. "By providing robots with a more accurate understanding of their environment, we can reduce the risk of accidents and improve overall efficiency."
Sonair's 3D ultrasonic sensor is currently being tested by several major robotics companies. The company plans to continue refining its technology and expanding its applications in the coming years.
As the use of robots in human spaces continues to grow, Sonair's innovative solution is poised to play a significant role in ensuring safe and efficient interactions between humans and machines.
*Reporting by Techcrunch.*
