Mobile ground-based robot systems for professional use

Abstract

Over the last years, in mobile robotics, as well as in service robotics in general, there is a tendency to increase the autonomy of robot systems (RS). In this case, we are even talking about those types of RS that were traditionally controlled exclusively in teleoperation mode. Increase of the RS autonomy level does not mean at all that the entire mission is executed without human intervention. Those RS, which increase operator’s situational awareness through the big data in-line processing, offer various options for action and recommend the most rational ones that are most appropriate for the current situation, will be in the greatest demand in the near future. However, the final decision remains so far with a man, although the machine will be able to prevent his particularly coarse and dangerous mistakes. Another important trend in robotics is the increasing use of a modular approach to the RS design. The advantages of this approach are obvious. This is, first of all, the ability to create flexible multi-functional reconfigurable systems for a specific task. This is reduction of the term and cost of RS developing. And hence, this is avoiding highly specialized systems aimed at single problem solving. The modular approach to design in addition to expanding the functionality and increasing the flexibility of the equipment use provides the possibility of its further modernization, integration of new technologies, extends operating life and allows for rapid repair by replacing failed units. Operative, but outdated modules can be easily replaced with modern analogues with improved performance. In the proposed publication the above trends are considered on the examples of professional mobile service ground-based robot systems for professional use - from inspection to military.