New User-Friendly System Makes Remote Control of Robots Even Easier
Exploring space, working in hostile environments or performing manual tasks are roles likely to be assisted by robots, as such, semi-autonomous robots are becoming more and more useful in future missions. Whether they are remotely operated or pre-programmed to operate in a supervised autonomous mode. These robots are remote controlled, programmed or instructed, for example by crew members on the ISS controlling a robot on a planetary surface, but currently the systems used for this control are very complex for the human operators.
A new activity with TDE and Network Research in Belgium, has developed an easy to use user interface that embraces modern technologies such as mobile devices to improve the ways we can control robots.
Called CLEAR, the activity developed a graphical Frontend where a user can select an activity from a list and build an activity plan, with options to validate and execute. It also developed a Backend with the activities, controls and plans in a database, then a Block editor to configure and update the capabilities of the system and finally a robotic system with a simulator that allows the CLEAR tool to be demonstrated. Special focus has been put on the ergonomy and UX
design of the frontend and the tool should be able to run on any device with a web browser installed such as a desktop, laptop or tablet. The underlying are also compliant with 3DROCS as well as with the ExoMars Rover Operations Control Center.
The global system has been demonstrated in the simulated environment, in connection with the Interact rover and it is scheduled to be used on the Analog-1 experiments at Mount Etna on 2022, where the International Space Station will be used as a stand-in for a spacecraft in orbit around another planetary body.
T313-503MM closed in October 2021.