Localization System for AGVs Using Laser Scanner and Marker Sensor

Abstract

This study develops a localization system using marker sensors and a laser scanner for autonomous guided vehicles (AGVs). To calibrate the relative position data of robots, which are obtained from encoders and gyros, the system uses a laser scanner and magnetic markers. The existing position-tracking method distinguish between rail and non-rail. This study proposes a method that enhances the position accuracy of robots using marker sensors and a laser scanner without distinguishing between rail and non-rail. First, using a laser scanner, the robot positions are obtained by measuring the distance between the reflector and the robot. The magnetic marker sensors provide the absolute position by detecting magnetic landmarks. Using a Kalman filter to combine the position data retrieved from the two sensors with the position data from the encoders and gyro sensors, we propose an effective localization system that integrates rails and non-rails. The experiment was repeated at three places using an actual AGV that was developed for this study. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed system can effectively track the positions of AGVs.