HUMABOT Challenge

The HUMABOT Challenge is characterized by the use of the a middle-size platform. Participating researchers focus on algorithmic development for fully autonomous robots, i.e., robots that operate without human intervention. The HUMABOT Challenge is intended for using a H25 version of the NAO Humanoid robot manufactured by Aldebaran Robotics, the Darwin-Op platform manufactured by Robotis, or any other robot with similar characteristics.

 

The scenario

In the HUMABOT Challenge, the robot is an integral part of the house and helps its occupants to live there better. In this edition, the tests will be held in the kitchen of the house.

 

Qualification

All interested teams need to submit an up-to five pages original qualification document (to be included in the registration form) with the following information:

  1. the team name

  2. a statement of commitment to participate in the HUMABOT Challenge

  3. the leader(s), the constitution, and the affiliation(s) of the team.

  4. robot platform used by the team

  5. a statement of the team's related research interests and planned activities

  6. a summary of past relevant work and scientific publications

The written material must be complemented by a link to a video (maximum 5 min long, uploaded on the team's web site or on some video server) that demonstrates the current status of the robotics research of the team. Videos of simulation contributions will also be accepted, only in case real robots are unavailable. If the candidates already have a robot platform, the video should show the current state of their robot performance. Preference will be given to teams that use real robots in their video.

 

The tests

There are two mandatory tests (1, 2), while the third test can be chosen. A technical file must be submitted for each test.

  1. Put off the fire: the robot must check which kitchen fire is lit, and put it off by pressing the corresponding button.

  2. Shopping list: the robot must recognize which products (from a pre-defined set) are available on the shelves, and which other products are missing, and make a shopping-list.

  3. One of these possibilities:

    1. Meal preparation: the robot must grasp a tomato and put it into a cooking pan.

    2. Climbing stairs: the robot must detect and climb or descend each step (steps can have different height).

Rules and technical information can be downloaded here.

 

Scores

Each test will be graded over 20 points. Grading will be performed on the day of the finals according to the robot's behaviour in the real room and not in a simulation. Each team will have the right to two attempts per test, lasting 3 minutes each. The best grade of the two attempts will be retained as the score. On the day of the finals and for each of the tests, a bonus will be awarded based on the success and speed of the task, and a penalty will be issued if the team must intervene on the robot during its attempt.

 

Registration

The participants should fill the registration form. Only the responsible member data of the team is needed.

Deadline to submit the Registration Form: JULY 25, 2014.