Header Bar Graphic
Space Image and IconSpace HeaderKids Image
Spacer Space IconHomepage ButtonWhat is NASA Quest ButtonSpacerCalendar of Events ButtonWhat is an Event ButtonHow do I Participate ButtonSpacerBios and Journals ButtonSpacerPics, Flicks and Facts ButtonArchived Events ButtonQ and A ButtonNews ButtonSpacerEducators and Parents ButtonSpacer
Highlight Graphic
Sitemap ButtonSearch ButtonContact Button 		 

FIELD JOURNAL

Positioning a Robot's Arm

by Stuart Engelhardt
March 26, l997

This past week I completed a training load delivery of the Joint Information Display - one of the components of the RSAD Application (RMS Situation Awareness Display).

colorful graph-like display

This display assists the astronauts in knowing the precise location of the joints on the robotic arm, whether they are operating close to a limit at the end of the joint's range of motion, avoiding a singularity within the joint's range of motion, or trying to align each joint with a target angle so it is positioned in a particular pose (as in grappling an object).

RSAD will be flying on STS-85 as a DTO (Detailed Test Objective), where astronauts will experiment with the application and the RMS, testing the different displays and features within the program. The application's most significant intended use is with Space Station Assembly, starting on STS-88. During assemblies, the application will keep the crew apprised of the status of the robotic arm, adding to the capabilities of existing displays - generally making their RMS activities a little easier.

 
Spacer        

Footer Bar Graphic
SpacerSpace IconAerospace IconAstrobiology IconWomen of NASA IconSpacer
Footer Info