Ubiquitous user interface design for space robotic operation

Abstract

Autonomous robotic systems are approaching the maturity level to be able to support astronauts in space and on planetary surfaces. Commanding these robots with existing input devices and command modalities cannot cope with their increased capabilities and limits the usability for the astronaut. This paper presents alternative user interface (UI) concepts for the use with ubiquitous devices such as smartwatches and tablet computers. In particular, it is proposed to command an autonomous space robot assistant on a low to medium level of autonomy using a smartwatch. When commanding the robot on a high level of autonomy, a tablet computer can be utilized with object-centered task-level commands. The respective interaction concepts designed to make best use of the input devices are presented in detail. A comparison of the proposed interfaces and the presentation of the use of the tablet computer user interface in the METERON SUPVIS Justin ISS experiment concludes the paper.