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SARONS - Semi-Autonomous RONSCustomer: National Center for Defense Robotics Description: The application of robotics in EOD is a challenging, real-world task requiring high levels of safety and predictability. To use autonomous and semiautonomous robots in real-world EOD tasks, operators must have confidence that the robots will perform their operator-assigned tasks properly. The state-of-the-art in robot control systems has reached the point that certain functions can be automated for use in EOD tasks with high enough reliability to satisfy operator requirements. Applied Perception Incorporated (API) and Northrop Grumman Remotec (NGR) have teamed to satisfy EOD operators' need for robots capable of autonomous and semiautonomous behaviors. These behaviors will make remote vehicle operation safer, more efficient, and less fatiguing. In this project, previously funded Semiautonomous Robotic Ordnance Neutralization System (SARONS) development will be extended by selecting and implementing sensors that will provide the vehicle with greater awareness of its surroundings, as well as the ability to take actions under general operator supervision rather than direct operator control. Together, these technologies promise to improve task performance, decrease required training time, and lessen operator fatigue. They will then become essential features for future EOD vehicles as well. The proposed program will provide three baseline components (collections of software algorithms, operator interface functions, and sensor hardware) that will implement the following behaviors: 1. Sensor interfaces and SARONS vehicle integration. 2. Obstacle detection and avoidance for vehicle safeguarding. 3. Precision movement of the vehicle relative to its current location |
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