Practical Field Robotics: A Systems Approach is an introductory book in the area of field robotics. It approaches the subject with a systems design methodology, showing the reader every important decision made in the process of planning, designing, making and testing a field robot. This book covers electronic, electrical, mechanical, control and software disciplines as needed. It begins with a discussion of industrial field robots and then moves on to cover the details of a practical machine that can mow your lawn. Unlike commercial devices that mow random patterns, this one “knows where it is.” The robot is also cost effective so that the reader may follow the logic, understand the steps and carry out its construction.

This is a book of design and implementation practice, rather than a theoretical treatment of field robotics. It provides the planning tools and presents detailed descriptions of the working parts of a successful machine. We ask you to keep in mind that such a machine is not a toy and can be potentially dangerous to construct and use. Caution and safety glasses are a must.

Key features:

• Takes a practical approach to field robotics, presenting the design and implementation of a robot from start to end

• Provides multiple robot examples including those used in nuclear service, underground coal mining and mowing

• Bridges the gap between existing mathematically based texts and the real work that goes on in research labs all over the world

• Establishes a structured approach to thinking about hardware and software design

• Includes problems and is accompanied by a website providing supporting videos and additional problems

Practical Field Robotics: A Systems Approach is a must have implementation guide for researchers and practitioners working on robotics projects, and undergraduate and graduate students in mechanical, industrial and electrical engineering, and computer science.