Localization and Sensing for Hopping Robots.

This paper describes the state of the art of hopping robots for space exploration and new conceptual advances in algorithms for localization and sensing of hopping robots. We first review the state of the art of hopping robot systems and describe their characteristics with reference to past and current space missions. Then, we briefly summarize the operational principles of minimally actuated jumping robots that are suitable for exploring the unstructured terrain of celestial bodies. These principles are supported by the description of some of the key mechanisms implemented, and by laboratory tests. Then, a new localization algorithm for hopping localization that fuses camera, inertial and acceleration data to compute the most likely landing location of the robot is proposed. To support localization with geo-referenced measures, we also briefly propose a new stereo system, based on omnidirectional cameras, whose physical characteristics are well suited for a hopping robot. Computer simulations of the localization algorithm, together with preliminary geometrical analysis of the proposed stereo system, support our claims of their applicability to planetary exploration. Conclusions and plans for future development end the paper.