A Novel Distributed Telerobotic System for Construction Machines Based on Modules Synchronization

On a scene of a natural disaster, rescuers require heavy duty hydraulic machines to answer their need of large forces, or to approach an unreachable spot. Those industrial vehicles are hydraulically actuated arms kinematically different, and equipped by specific tools to fit the task to accomplish. They require trained operators because of their complex use. As time and accuracy are primordial factors to save lives in such a situation, the use of automation and robotic concepts on the control of those machines becomes necessary. The standard approach is to use manual teleoperation based on a bilateral master/slave system, to enhance the maneuverability of the machines, but their diversity is nearly never taken into account. We propose here, a modular platform based on an original synchronization of module states that allows easy manipulator changes and flexibility of use. We will describe the proposed concept of intelligent interface, and verify its utility and performances through some pertinent configurations and experiment