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Clearpath Robotics launched an autonomous navigation software platform called OutdoorNav. The technology provides GPS-based navigation for Clearpath’s outdoor mobile platforms and third-party vehicles.

OutdoorNav software provides point-to-point, GPS-based autonomous navigation through proprietary fusion of vehicle sensor data. When paired with compatible hardware, the software also provides built-in obstacle detection and avoidance, as well as continuous path planning, allowing off-road vehicles to navigate autonomously between waypoints.

Vehicle developers can interact with the software using a web-based user interface or through a documented API. Through the web-based interface, users can create, edit, monitor and manage autonomous missions, visualize data from onboard sensors, and view the vehicle’s live position on an interactive map. Customized tasks, such as capturing sensor data or imagery at specific locations, can be assigned at waypoints.

“Robotics product development can often be a difficult, sometimes harrowing experience,” said Bryan Webb, president of Clearpath Robotics. “Building a robust navigation system is expensive and risky, and it may prevent you from bringing your product to market in a timely fashion. We built and designed OutdoorNav to streamline your development of autonomous vehicles. You no longer need a full team of robotics navigation experts and months of prototyping to get your autonomous system into the field.”

The web-based interface also supports a teleoperation mode, which allows users to command and control the vehicles remotely via cellular connection using a virtual joystick. Onboard sensor data from network cameras, LiDARs, and other integrated components can be easily visualized in real-time.

The software comes with a well-documented Application Programming Interface (API) that allows developers to expand the capabilities of the software by integrating their custom ROS-based applications and graphical user interfaces, or by connecting third-party fleet management tools.

OutdoorNav software is compatible with Clearpath mobile platforms, including the Jackal UGV, Husky UGV, and Warthog UGV, as well as third-party vehicles with drive-by-wire control. Clearpath also announced a new partner program to provide qualifying robotics developers access to discounted OutdoorNav software licenses, robot hardware, sensor kits, and support. Applications will be accepted until November 15th, 2022, with applicants selected on December 15th, 2022. Click here to learn more and apply for the program.