AirEOD

Authors: Molfino, Rezia; Costo, Sandro; Cepolina, Francesco; Zoppi, Matteo

Source: Industrial Robot: An International Journal, Volume 33, Number 3, 2006 , pp. 228-235(8)

Publisher: Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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Abstract:

Purpose - To present a new special explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) robot designed to operate onboard airplanes. Design/methodology/approach - The design approach adopted is multidisciplinary: mechanical and control architectures are conceived simultaneously. Modularity and lifecycle are considered. Motion and EOD tasks are controlled in tele-operation. Findings - A new EOD robot was designed in detail and it is ready to be built. A dynamic simulator has been written and set-up, including a virtual reality module. The simulator is used to define the control logics. Simulation results are satisfactory. The simulator can be used as a training platform for the bomb squads. Research limitations/implications - The intent to keep the cost of the robot low conditioned the selection of the materials. Only aluminium and standard composites (like carbon fibers composites) have been used. A higher degree of freedom of the arm could increase the usability of the system; to limit the cost, the degree of freedom was limited to seven. A decision support system based on an expert system interfaced with the simulator could improve the performance of the system. Practical implications - A new EOD robot will be built and commercialised soon by the industrial partner Ansaldo Ricerche. Originality/value - The EOD robots available for use inside aircrafts are discussed. A new system named AirEOD is presented, including mobile platform, dexterous arm and all related design and control issues.

Keywords: Explosives; Hazardous materials; Robotics

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/01439910610659132

Publication date: 2006-05-01