SUPER’ is the name given by roboticists at the University of Hong Kong (https://www.hku.hk/) to their new flying robot, which is designed to move through unknown terrain at a higher speed than competing drones – and without touching any obstacles. The vehicle is even able to recognise thin branches and power lines and avoid them in time. According to the engineers, the top speed is 72 kilometres per hour.
Early obstacle detection
The secret of its success is the use of 3D LiDAR instead of conventional cameras and sensors – a technology that provides real-time feedback on distances of up to 70 metres in all directions. LiDAR is a laser-based distance measurement method. The laser beams are fired in all directions and reflected by obstacles. The distance is determined in real time based on the time of flight of the light signals.
The LiDAR data is forwarded to an on-board computer, which uses the information for so-called trajectory planning, i.e. to calculate the route that SUPER must take to reach its destination. To optimise this route, the system always calculates two options, of which the fastest and safest is selected and implemented.
Ready for action even in the dark
Tests have shown that SUPER can fly safely through an obstacle course at top speed. The team has also discovered that the system can follow a human through a forest, successfully flying around trees, branches and other obstacles it encounters. Thanks to its LiDAR technology, the drone can also be used in low light conditions.
The drone has a range of potential applications. For example, it can be used for object tracking, i.e. to monitor the movements of offenders on day release. The military can use it to scout out enemy positions. And SUPER is suitable for searching for people in the event of a disaster or providing firefighters with information about the spread of forest fires.
