NREC implemented an autonomous manipulator for explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) robots that greatly simplifies manipulator use and coordinates the movements of the manipulator and its platform.

The Manipulator Coordination (ACMM) system intelligently controls the manipulator’s joints. Operators do not need to individually move each joint. Instead, the system controls the joints to move the end effector to where the operator wants it to go.

ACMM also coordinates the movements of the manipulator and its platform. Operators can click on an object and the robot will automatically move, reach out, and grab it (click and grab). They can also click on a location and the robot will autonomously navigate there (click and move).

This work is related to Department of Navy and the NCDR/TTC sponsored project/research under Prime Contract No. N00164-05-D-6647 issued by the NCDR/TTC on behalf of the Naval Surface Warfare Center – Crane Division. Since the effort was undertaken by the NCDR/TTC and paid for by the Department of the Navy, the United States Government has a royalty-free license throughout the world in all copyrightable material contained herein. Any opinions, findings and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the NCDR/TTC or the Department of the Navy, Naval Surface Warfare Center – Crane Division.