JPL Robotics Meeting Notes

User:vrtnis' notes from meeting with JPL robotics head of robotics team (EELS and Rover)

Mars rover autonomy

• combine approximate kinematic settling with a dual-cost path planner.
• develop multi-agent capabilities to significantly enhance performance and safety of autonomous operations on Mars.
• autonomy system to efficiently handle Mars' unpredictable terrain, improving mission success rates.
• incorporate mechanisms for self-diagnosis and repair to ensure long-term functionality with minimal Earth-based support.

Summary

Risk-aware planning

• utilize Boole's inequality for risk allocation.
• enhancing decision-making under uncertainty.
• employ predictive analytics to anticipate and mitigate potential risks.
• allowing for dynamic re-planning and risk management.

Advanced sensor integration

• high-resolution cameras and spectrometers
• integrate sensors for comprehensive environmental data.
• using ground-penetrating radar (GPR).

Energy

• optimize energy consumption.
• utilize a combination of solar panels.
• gather power from the environment, such as thermal gradients and mechanical movements.

Navigation and mapping

• utilize LIDAR
• optimal path planning
• integrate real-time obstacle detection

Project management lessons learned

• manage complex robotics projects like eels and Mars rovers by coordinating multiple teams
• advantage of having all team members colocated in the same building at the project's inception.
• more integrated workflows through initial colocation
• ensure alignment on project goals and timelines.
• early stages of complex projects benefit greatly from in-person collaboration. establish a strong foundation through colocation to enhance subsequent remote coordination efforts