Understanding the SLAM methodology

SLAM is a common methodology for navigating indoor robots. Before we get into the specifics, let’s look at two key issues:

• The first problem we have in indoor robot driving is that we don’t have a map
• The second problem we have is that we have no frame of reference to locate ourselves – GPS does not work indoors

That is two problems – we need a map, and then we need a way to locate ourselves on that map. While SLAM starts with the letter S for “simultaneous,” in truth, most robots make a map, store it away, and then drive on it later. Of course, while maps are being made, the robot must make the map and then locate itself on the map – usually in the center.

How does SLAM work? The sensor usually associated with SLAM is the spinning LIDAR. You can think of LIDAR as laser radar – it uses a laser to measure the distance to objects and spins in a circle to collect data all around...