A world-leading handheld 3D laser mapping technology, Zebedee will
enable manufacturers to create faster and more accurate 3D simulations of their
factory production lines. The UK-based start-up GeoSLAM has partnered with
CSIRO to enhance and add features to Zebedee’s underlying simultaneous
localisation and mapping technology, using a $2 million grant awarded through
CSIRO’s Australian Growth Partnership (AGP) program.
Licensed to GeoSLAM, Zebedee (also known as ZEB1) is a breakthrough
system being used by more than 25 multinational organisations for efficiency
and productivity gains. CSIRO Digital Productivity Flagship’s Nick Marsh
explains that CSIRO is investing in this technology to enable GeoSLAM to continue
to grow and enter new markets.
According to Mr Marsh, GeoSLAM was established in 2012 as a joint
venture between CSIRO and 3D Laser Mapping to commercialise the technology.
Zebedee is a versatile, low-cost and easy-to-use system, enabling users
to create accurate 3D maps simply by walking through a desired location.
It is part of a suite of lightweight assistive machines known as
Guardian Technologies, which will be the focus of a keynote address by CSIRO’s
Digital Productivity Flagship Director Dr Michael Brünig this week at
RoboBusiness 2014 in Boston, United States.
Dr Brünig explains that there is real value for companies in mapping
dynamic environments in real-time. For example, manufacturers can use the
technology to map components on a production line and track their progress to
improve efficiencies and flow. These technologies can also be used to create
real-to-life simulations of the factory floor for training and quality
control.
The AGP funding was awarded to GeoSLAM through a competitive process, in
recognition of the company’s rapid early success and the potential to advance
the technology through CSIRO. The technology was first applied to the mining
industry but is now being used in a whole host of areas, from security and
forestry to mapping cultural heritage sites.
Mr Marsh says it has mapped some of the world’s most iconic landmarks,
including the Leaning Tower of Pisa, as well as national treasures such as the
Jenolan Caves near the Blue Mountains and Fort Lytton in Brisbane.
Zebedee is commercially available through GeoSLAM as ZEB1.