Back in September 2014, Google unveiled a new tool called Cartographer, designed to create 2D and 3D maps of indoor spaces. This technology relies on algorithms of simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM), a key ingredient for unmanned vehicles, robot vacuums, self-driving cars, and cranes that operate on their own.
Two years later, Google has decided to turn Cartographer into an open source tool, compatible with the Robot Operating System.
A look inside Cartographer
There are different methods for creating indoor maps, some more automated than others. Commercial solutions tend to be very expensive, and those who decide to explore the open source route will likely discover certain limitations. However, Google's latest announcement seeks to change that. Back in September 2014, Google launched Cartographer, a library for simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM). Its effectiveness and speed are so high that, according to Google, it can generate a map of a 39-story building in just a few hours.
Since then, Google has combined Cartographer data with official sources to create the most accurate maps, but starting this week, the resource is released to everyone. Google Cartographer is open source.
Open source and ROS compatibility
That means Cartographer can be integrated and adapted to all kinds of platforms, starting with the Robot Operating System. Google highlights that this compatibility, combined with the efforts of several external collaborators, will allow Cartographer to work immediately on options like TurtleBots, Toyota's HSR robot, Willow Garage's Personal Robotics 2, and the Revo LDS. Google's plan is to democratize access to SLAM, although it acknowledges that Cartographer currently focuses heavily on LIDAR, and over time it hopes to add more sensors, platforms, and functions to the project.
I admit Cartographer may not be of particular interest to the average user, but there are many robotics enthusiasts out there who experiment with sensors, and Cartographer could become a great ally. Don't hesitate to give it a try; the official announcement has several links, and I imagine we'll soon see a more dedicated portal.
