The recent developments in the field of robotics and IoT applications showcase a significant trend towards enhancing wireless communication, localization, and monitoring systems. Innovations are particularly focused on integrating cost-effective, precise, and energy-efficient technologies to improve the autonomy and functionality of robots and IoT devices. A notable advancement is the shift from wired to wireless systems, exemplified by the conversion of wired PLCs into wireless ones using Bluetooth technology, which facilitates easier control and monitoring of field devices. Additionally, there's a strong emphasis on developing sophisticated localization systems for robots, ranging from indoor positioning systems that leverage webcam technology for precise navigation to ultra-wideband localization systems designed for small-scale flapping-wing robots, ensuring accurate 3D position estimation with minimal computational and energy resources. Furthermore, the field is seeing the application of these technologies in novel areas such as beekeeping, where automated monitoring systems are being developed to track bee colony movements and honey consumption without disrupting their natural activities, thereby enhancing beekeeping efficiency and bee health.

Noteworthy Papers

• Design To Convert a Wired PLC into Wireless PLC: Introduces a Bluetooth-based solution to transform traditional wired PLCs into wireless systems, enabling remote control and monitoring of field devices.
• Co-Design of a Robot Controller Board and Indoor Positioning System for IoT-Enabled Applications: Presents a cost-effective, precise indoor robot navigation system that combines a custom robot controller board with an innovative positioning system, significantly reducing navigation errors.
• Range-Only Localization System for Small-Scale Flapping-Wing Robots: Describes an ultra-wideband localization system tailored for small-scale flapping-wing robots, offering accurate 3D position estimation with minimal energy and computational requirements.