Tech Directions - November 2007 - (Page 13)

map and explore its environment. All of DepthX’s hardware relies on the Carnegie Mellon SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) software that provides it with a detailed map it can use to navigate its surroundings. To understand how the SLAM software guides DepthX on its underwater journeys, let’s compare what it does to a more familiar land-based GPS mapping system. GPS satellites provide location data that is overlaid onto a map in the GPS receiver. As DepthX slowly descends (Photo 2), it slowly revolves to give its 56 sonar units a chance to create a 3D map of the area. It also uses the data it gathers to pinpoint its own location on a 3D map that it creates during its descent. It now uses other software to help it plan its voyage of exploration. It maps, locates itself on its map, spots interesting locations within visual or sonar range, and rock formations are also physically and visually sampled for later study after the samples and video are retrieved from DepthX. Microbiologists from the Colorado School of Mines are also currently studying samples taken onboard. This earthbound exploration has already led to the discovery of nine new microbes that might contain DNA that could lead to all kinds of new discoveries here on Earth. We can only imagine what DepthX might discover if it gets a chance to swim and map the Photo 2 oceans of Europa! DepthX is designed to not only visually explore its environment but Recalling the Facts also to take samples for analysis. 1. How do the builders of DepthX Onboard analysis includes visual control the vehicle’s location during examination under an onboard mia dive? croscope. The software that controls 2. How does this vehicle create a this microscope has subroutines 3D map of its environment? designed to track objects in the sample that show the physical charAlan Pierce, Ed.D., CSIT, is a techacteristics of a living organism. nology education consultant. Visit Larger objects that might be no www.technologytoday.us for past more significant than slime-covered columns and teacher resources. then uses its map to create the safest route to explore that location. It also uses these maps to find its way home at the end of its voyage. www.techdirections.com TECHNOLOGY TODAY 13 http://www.technologytoday.us http://www.graymarkint.com http://www.graymarkint.com http://www.techdirections.com

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Tech Directions - November 2007 Technically Speaking Contents Direct from Washington The News Report Technology’s Past Technology Today Mastering Computers Video Game Programmers Learn to “Pitch” Project Teaches Students to Diagnose an Ailing Windows OS See the Math with Your Binoculars! Fire Safety Technician ACTE Convention and Career Tech Expo Hands-On Activities More than Fun

Tech Directions - November 2007

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