Mechanical Engineering Systems Brochures Robotics & Autonomous Systems | Page 10

LABS & CENTERS / 10

AFSRL LAB

Autonomous Field & Space Robotics Lab ERIK KOMENDERA | Director
The Autonomous Field and Space Robotics Laboratory ’ s research goals are to study and advance the state of the art in robust autonomy for robots operating in the field . The central question driving our research : how can a robotic system optimally use its sensing , actuation , computation , and communication abilities to identify and resolve problems that occur during operations ? Problems arise from incorrect models , uncertain measurements , poor communications , dynamic environments , and changing objectives . Applications include in-space servicing and assembly , terrestrial construction , disaster site operations , and other tasks in hazardous environments . Our research emphasizes validation using hardware experiments in a relevant environment . Autonomous in-space assembly ( previous research at NASA shown in photos ) is a major application focus of our research .