Space telerobotics: A few more hurdles

This paper discusses three milestones that must be reached before telerobotics technology is ready for a useful role on the space station: (1) A telerobotic manipulator, which integrates remote manned control with automation and robotics, must be designed. A new, unique design for such a system is described. (2) Technology that is developed and demonstrated in the lab must be integrated and validated in flight-scale systems. Current technology thrusts at NASA Langley Research Center are described, along with an approach to transferring the technology to flight. (3) The role of telerobotics must be defined, and its benefits quantified. Possible roles as an adjunct and as an alternative to extravehicular activity are discussed.