Software for Robotics Arm of Space Shuttle

CLIENT: NASA – Space Shuttle Program

PROJECT: Software for Robotics Arm of Space Shuttle - RSAD (Robotics Situation Awareness Display)

CHALLENGE: Create an alternative to the indeterminate training displays used by astronauts to operate the Shuttle Robotics Arm.

OPERATING ENVIRONMENT:
Hardware: IBM Intel 486s Laptop Computer
Software: Microsoft Win95, Visual C++/MFC, Visual Basic (as prototype tool).

SOLUTION: Develop a highly complex Situational Awareness software application to assist astronauts in activating the Shuttle Robotics Arm.

RESULTS:

• Application has been successfully used on all NASA Space Shuttle flights involving the Robotics Arm since 1997.
• New application expedites crew training and provides a more intuitive operation of the Robotics Arm.
• Use of the application allows astronauts to complete tasks more efficiently. It permits operation of the Robotics Arm in conditions of poor visibility. In addition, it avoids reach limits or singularities.
• The goal is to deploy the application on both the Shuttle and Space Station for all Robotics Arms to reduce training costs and improve the flexibility of arm operators.