Abstract: The Reconfigurable Wheel-Track (RWT) is a novel mechanism that allows a wheel to transform into a track, and vice-versa. The wheel permits a vehicle to travel quickly over smooth and semi-rough terrain, then, on-the-fly, transform rapidly into a powered track for crossing extreme terrain. The reconfigurable wheel-track consists of several main components: an outer tire/tread, drive mechanisms for the wheel and track, support mechanisms for the outer tread when in either wheel mode or track mode, and a reconfiguration mechanism that facilitates the transformation from a wheel to a track and vice-versa. The reconfigurable wheel-track includes sensing, actuation, and controls to facilitate efficient and effective transition from wheel to track and vice-versa, and securely maintain each shape.

Abstract: An aquatic vessel, illustratively a pontoon boat including a thruster system is disclosed. The aquatic vessel executes a process to automatically position the aquatic vessel relative to a target location such as a mooring implement. Exemplary mooring implements include a dock, a slip, or a lift.

Abstract: An intelligent, autonomous interior cleaning robot capable of autonomously mapping and cleaning multiple rooms in a house in an intelligent manner is described. Various combinations of passive and active sensors may be used to perform mapping, localization, and obstacle avoidance. In particular, the robot uses stereo cameras with a static projected light pattern to generate 3D data. In addition, the robot may use optical sensors in various locations, laser ToF sensors, inertial measurement units and visual odometry to enhance the localization and mapping capabilities.