Stanford University, Princeton University, and Dexterity have collaborated to create TidyBot++. This enhanced mobile robot is designed for home tasks and is part of a platform for testing and training new robotics algorithms.
TidyBot++ features a holonomic base-a design built with motorized caster wheels-that permits unrestricted and seamless movement in all directions, thereby rendering it suitable for the purpose of traversing areas laden with activity or requiring navigation. The design intentionally caters to accessibility, toughness, and versatility of potential applications.
The design of TidyBot++ consists of three main elements. First, for the common modular frame made from aluminum T-slot extrusions that can be fitted with various robotic arms or sensors, allowing customization of the robot for specific purposes. Second, there exists the teleoperation interface realized through a mobile phone.
It employs the WebXR API for enabling real-time pose tracking of the robot that permits the user to control it without much burden. Third, the T-slot aluminum extrusions used in the frame give it a strong yet lightweight structure.
Thanks to its innovative holonomic base, TidyBot++ can operate in different environments. The robot costs about $5,000 to $6,000 to make. Robust real-world testing performed by researchers shows that TidyBot++ is able to complete several chores around the house successfully. Because of this, it could find its application in education by providing an experimental testbed for robotics algorithms and techniques. Additionally, it could work as an assistant in everyday work in the home.
In making TidyBot++ operational, researchers focus on design improvements. The present limitations of the robot are being addressed, and training approaches are being developed whereby it can quickly adapt to new tasks and environments with the least additional training. In all, the aim is to further the capabilities of mobile manipulators like TidyBot++ and commonize and ease robotic assistance for everyday life.