Utilizing Photovoltaic Solar Panels for Real-Time Localization and Speed Detection of Approaching Illuminated Objects in Humanoid Robots

Abstract

In the field of humanoid robotics, this paper showcases a promising method of integrating the photovoltaic (PV) solar panels into the “GUCnoid 1.0” humanoid robot model. Instead of the conventional power generation, solar cells are used to supply electrical energy to various sensors to create a system capable of real-time sensing and perception. The main focus of the study will be the use of PV panels as receptors that are capable of detecting the light, enabling an adaptive system which perceives environmental changes. The behavior of the PV cell is superbly studied when various light sources are approached or depart. They finally reveal unique patterns in the voltage output signal amplitude. Interestingly, these patterns figure out the same symmetric structure, which reflects on a vertical axis by their mirroring. Using this simplicity, the method involves using an artificial neural network that is able to distinguish the light sources coming towards the detector and the ones running away and the rate at which they approach/recede. Outdoor experiment was organized for verification of methods. GUCnoid 1.0— humanoid robot was placed in front of a moving vehicle with different speeds of approach. To be able to identify the vehicle's position and velocity, a PV sensing technique has to be applied. This innovative technology will have wide applications, with much attention paid to improving the speed of finding nearby objects or vehicles in the scenarios where quick detection is a serious life safety issue. Through the process of PV solar panels' smart sensing, we directly connect the areas of high-tech robotics and renewable energy. This discovery creates an opportunity for companies to build more responsive and flexible humanoid robots that can effectively collaborate with humans to achieve greater outcomes through more secure and efficient interactions between humans and robots.