Shape recognition of laser beam trace for human–robot interface

• This paper proposed the concept of the shape identification method of laser beam trace.
• We constructed the classification algorithm of figures drawn by a laser pointer.
• Experiments confirmed our system classified typical figures in accuracy of more than 86%.
• We applied the system to steer the mobile robot only with a laser beam.

A robot navigation system using the pattern recognition of figures drawn by a laser pointer has been proposed. Typical figures are registered and assigned to individual robot commands. Each figure is identified based on the feature of its edges. This system detects trace of laser beam and calculates its optical flow vectors. Each figure has its own characteristic distribution pattern of vector inclinations. By evaluating the optical flow pattern of displayed laser spot, the system distinguishes the shape of a laser beam trace and provides the command to a robot corresponding to the drawn figure. The proposed system has been applied to the mobile robot, and shows its effectiveness by steering successfully.