Networked robotic systems that are used in the areas of security, maintenance and facility management score points there primarily thanks to their mobility and modularity. In order to be able to follow defined routes and act autonomously, these systems must be able to orient themselves in the environment. This is usually done by using the well-known GPS/Global Position System, which, however, reaches its limits without a view of the sky, e.g. in buildings. The innovative IPS technology has the potential to change this.

The technology is being developed at the DLR Institute of Optical Sensor Systems (DLR-OS), which was awarded the Berlin/Brandenburg Innovation Prize for it at the end of 2018. The new approach combines a variety of technologies and sensors in one device, i.e. each part contributes its strengths and minimises the weaknesses of the others. Orientation is provided by visual sensor technology, for example using stereo cameras, thermal cameras and inertial measurement systems. Obstacles such as vibrations, shaking, glare, reflections, backlighting, etc. are filtered through the sensor fusion and do not reduce the measurement accuracy of the system.

IPS Navigation can integrate GPS and WiFi, but also works without their presence and, this is a great advantage, does not require any further room and environment data in advance.

In addition to a compact handheld version, there are also IPS devices that are intended for direct use on mobile platforms.