Museum robots: multi-robot systems for public exhibition

Abstract

Mobile robots provide a versatile platform for
\nresearch, however they can also provide an interesting
\neducational platform for public exhibition at museums. In
\ngeneral museums require exhibits that are both eye
\ncatching and exciting to the public whilst requiring a
\nminimum of maintenance time from museum technicians.
\nIn many cases it is simply not possible to continuously
\nchange batteries and some method of supplying continous
\npower is required. A powered flooring system is
\ndescribed that is capable of providing power
\ncontinuously to a group of robots. Three different
\nmuseum exhibit applications are described. All three
\nrobot exhibits are of a similar basic design although the
\nexhibits are very different in appearance and behaviour.
\nThe durability and versatility of the robots also makes
\nthem extremely good candidates for long duration
\nexperiments such as those required by evolutionary
\nrobotics.