Computing camera viewpoints in a robot work-cell

Automatically planning a camera viewpoint for tasks such as inspection in an active robot work-cell is a difficult problem. This paper discusses new methods for computing viewpoints which meet the feature detectability constraints of focus, field-of-view, visibility, and resolution. A theoretical outline of the method is presented, followed by experimental results and a discussion of future work

The MVP sensor planning system for robotic vision tasks

The MVP (machine vision planner) model-based sensor planning system for robotic vision is presented. MVP automatically synthesizes desirable camera views of a scene based on geometric models of the environment, optical models of the vision sensors, and models of the task to be achieved. The generic task of feature detectability has been chosen since it is applicable to many robot-controlled vision systems. For such a task, features of interest in the environment are required to simultaneously be visible, inside the field of view, in focus, and magnified as required. In this paper, we present a technique that poses the vision sensor planning problem in an optimization setting and determines viewpoints that satisfy all previous requirements simultaneously and with a margin. In addition, we present experimental results of this technique when applied to a robotic vision system that consists of a camera mounted on a robot manipulator in a hand-eye configuration

Facilitating the Exploitation of Linked Open Statistical Data: JSON-QB API Requirements and Design Criteria

Recently, many organizations have opened up their data for others to reuse. A major part of these data concern statistics such as demographic and social indicators. Linked Data is a promising paradigm for opening data because it facilitates data integration on the Web. Re- cently, a growing number of organizations adopted linked data paradigm and provided Linked Open Statistical Data (LOSD). These data can be exploited to create added value services and applications that require integrated data from multiple sources. In this paper, we suggest that in order to unleash the full potential of LOSD we need to facilitate the interaction with LOSD and hide most of the complexity. Moreover, we describe the requirements and design criteria of a JSON-QB API that (i) facilitates the development of LOSD tools through a style of interaction familiar to web developers and (ii) offers a uniform way to access LOSD. A proof of concept implementation of the JSON-QB API demonstrates part of the proposed functionality

Using the problem based learning method and educational technologies to teach open data: A design-based research approach

With Open Data becoming more popular and more public bodies publishing their datasets, the need for educating prospective graduates on how they can use them has become prominent. This study examines the use of the Problem Based Learning (PBL) method and educational technologies to support the development of Open Data skills in university students. The study follows a Design Based Research approach and consists of three phases: a) examination of stakeholders’ needs, b) design of an Open Data module, and c) re-design of the module based on the outcomes of its first run. The data collected throughout the three phases come from various sources, namely interviews with practitioners, focus groups with students, and tutors’ reflection. The findings suggest that while the PBL method is suitable for Open Data education, special care should be taken to ensure that the potential of educational technologies is fully realised. The study concludes with design principles that aim to guide instructors on how they can incorporate the PBL method and digital tools into Open Data education effectively

Evaluation of an Argument Visualisation Platform by Experts and Policy

Abstract. Argument visualisation (AV) tools enable structured debates around issues, positions and arguments. These tools have the potential to substantially improve transparency e.g. by enabling understanding complex legislation and debating. In this paper we present the results of the evaluation of an AV platform by experts and policy makers. The results suggest the potential of such tools is large particularly for understanding complex legislation and debates. The results indicate an AV tool can be also potentially used for massive deliberations when however usability is further improved. They further suggest an AV tool seems particularly relevant to the analysis and policy formation stages of policy making, where identification, elaboration and presentation of complex topics are needed. In this paper we employed a mature AV tool and concentrate on evaluating general aspects of such platforms hence we believe the results can also apply to other AV platforms

Dynamic sensor planning

A method of extending the sensor planning abilities of the MVP (machine vision planning) system to plan viewpoints for monitoring a pre-planned robot task is described. The dynamic sensor planning system presented analyzes geometric models of the environment and of the planned motions of the robot, as well as optical models of the vision sensor. Using a combination of swept volumes and a temporal interval search technique, it computes a series of viewpoints, each of which provides a valid viewpoint for a different interval of the task. By mounting a camera on another manipulator, the viewpoints can be executed at appropriate times during the task so that there is always a robust view suitable for monitoring the task. Experimental results monitoring a simulated robot operation are presented, and directions for future research are discussed