Work Item
ASTM WK60731
New Test Method for Evaluating Response Robot Radio Communications: Wireless Attenuation
1. Scope
Wireless technology is used as the primary means of communication between a response robot and the robot controller. The conditions in which emergency response robots are used are typically not ideal for wireless. Building materials, fallen objects, corridors, and other obstructions create a harshly attenuating or severe multi-path environment that can present a performance challenge for the communication link which could negatively impact robot performance. By constructing a chamber in which radio frequency transmissions are attenuated in a controlled way, we can simulate attenuation due to distance and physical obstructions. Robot performance can then be evaluated under these controlled conditions.
Keywords
attenuation, emergency response, radio communications, operator control unit, OCU, remote teleoperation, responders, robot, test suite, urban search and rescue, US&R:
Rationale
These test methods were developed specifically for emergency response robots, they may be applicable to other application domains. They can be used to ascertain operator proficiencies during training. They can provide practice tasks that exercise robotic control, including actuators, sensors, and operator interfaces. They can also provide performance objectives for the corresponding subsystems on the robots.
The title and scope are in draft form and are under development within this ASTM Committee.
Work Item Status
Date Initiated: 10-10-2017
Technical Contact: Ann Virts
Item: 000
Ballot:
Status: