A framework for every application.
TOPAS Autonomy Framework
All of our autonomy modules form part of the integrated TOPAS Autonomy Framework (T.A.F.). These highly customizable software packages cover the entire autonomous navigation spectrum, from localisation and mapping to mission planning and control. This allows your mobile robot systems to evolve from remote control to highly automated operation.
Modular - The TOPAS Autonomy Framework consists of several modules, so you can choose the ones you need. For example, you may require the complete autonomy stack or algorithms for high-level decision-making for strategic planning. Alternatively, you may wish to expand your existing navigation stack with our localisation and mapping modules.
Extensibility - The TOPAS Autonomy Framework modules have been developed with extensibility in mind, in line with our best practices for software development, API design, and documentation. The developer kit gives you complete freedom to seamlessly integrate TOPAS Autonomy Framework capabilities into your software stack.
Compatibility - The TOPAS Autonomy Framework was developed with compatibility in mind. We provide interfaces with well-established middleware frameworks, such as ROS2 and ArduPilot, to facilitate connection with existing systems and code bases.
You supply the hardware, we supply the solution.
The development of autonomous functions for each robot system is an iterative process. Each step introduces new capabilities, as well as new complexity. The TOPAS Autonomy Framework provides the necessary algorithms, modules and tools to support you throughout this process. Whether you are starting with a teleoperated system and aiming for operator assistance or have already implemented basic autonomous functions and are looking to add high-level planning capabilities, we can help.
- Processes and responds to user input
- Visualisation of sensor measurements
- Display of diagnostics and system warnings
- Interpreting sensor readings
- Safety functions (e.g. emergency brake)
- Automatic execution of simple manoeuvres (e.g. turning)
- Integration of localisation and mapping
- Detection and avoidance of static obstacles
- Automatic execution of complex manoeuvres (e.g. return-to-home, path tracking)
- Autonomous exploration and mapping of unknown areas
- Detection and avoidance of moving obstacles
- Autonomous mission planning and execution (i.e. high-level decision-making)
- Coordination of multi-system missions
- Distributed navigation (localisation, mapping, conclusions and control).
- Distributed exploration and mission execution
Examples of use
Sensor
A wide variety of sensors are used to enable autonomous systems to perceive their environment. However, choosing the right sensor for a given task can be difficult, as each type of sensor has its own advantages and disadvantages.
For example, cameras work well in good lighting conditions and can identify people, road signs and obstacles, but struggle in unstable lighting or darkness. In contrast, laser-based LiDAR sensors are ideal for detecting the 3D geometry of the environment, even in complete darkness. However, they do not provide any information about the objects they detect.
The TOPAS Autonomy Framework supports a wide range of sensor types. Drawing on our experience in mobile robotics, we can help you select and integrate the right sensor into your software stack.
High-level autonomy and navigation
In order to perform intelligent actions, an autonomous system must know its current location, its desired destination, and how to travel safely between the two.
The TOPAS Autonomy Framework offers software modules for this purpose.
- Localisation approaches using inertial measurement units (IMUs), wheel encoders, visual odometry or GPS;
- It also offers mapping approaches for creating 2D or 3D maps of the environment
- Path planning approaches that interpret the environment and plan a safe route to a known location or for exploring an unknown region.
Path planning and control
The final step is autonomous control. The objective is to safely and efficiently navigate a system through a potentially highly dynamic environment. The TOPAS Autonomy Framework provides algorithms for optimal path planning and responding to static or dynamic obstacles, ensuring the system reaches its destination safely.
TOPAS Autonomy Framework
Modular library, SaaS or fully integrated solutions.
Tailored to you by our autonomy experts.
We can tailor the software to meet your specific requirements.
End-to-end support
From thorough analysis to development in real environments.
Curious to find out how the TOPAS Autonomy Framework can make your system more intelligent?