Compact and Intelligent Robotic System

Physical Optics Corporation (POC) has developed and demonstrated in Phase I a Compact and Intelligent Robotic System (CIROS) that can handle and stow equipment of various sizes according to preprogrammed operating plans on Littoral Combat Ships (LCS). The major components of the CIROS were designed, analyzed, and tested in Phase I. The CIROS is based on a unique integration of these components, including a universal joint manipulator, a robot arm and base fixture, an innovative collision avoidance algorithm for dual-arm operation, and system software. CIROS is a new automatic robotic system that minimizes hazards to ships and personnel, with intelligence built in by programming the robot with planning and operation sequence algorithms for dexterous dual-arm robotic operation, and optimal operation sequences for current and future robotics technologies. CIROS expands the limits of robotics, developing new ideas and integrating state-of-the-art components for improved flexibility and compatibility with other systems. In Phase I we identified all of the critical system parameters that must be optimized to develop a fully functional CIROS prototype in Phase II. In Phase II POC will develop this innovative robotic system for automatic shipboard handling and stowage of equipment, including CIROS subsystems and interfaces with robotic components.