THE CHALLENGE
An Overview of the DARPA Robotics Challenge
The DARPA Robotics Challenge (DRC) is a competition of robot systems and software teams. Each team must develop a robot that can tackle complex tasks in dangerous environments to come to the aid of humans in disaster response scenarios.
The first place winning team won a $2 million cash prize; second place and third place teams won $1 million and $500,000, respectively.
Qualifying teams must develop all robotic hardware, software, sensors and human-machine control interfaces and adhere to competition rules.
On June 5-6 at the Fairplex in Pomona, California, robots competed in the DRC Finals, where they were expected to complete a series of challenging tasks.
DRC ROBOT TASK LIST
DRC Robots must complete the following tasks; all total, tasks must be completed within a set timeframe of approximately one hour. Teams cannot interact physically with robots and all communication/operation must take place over a wireless network.
- 1. Drive the vehicle
- 2. Get out of the vehicle *
- 3. Open a door and go through *
- 4. Negotiate debris (move it or walk over it) *
- 5. Use a tool to cut a hole in a wall *
- 6. Reach through the opening and open valve *
- 7. Cross terrain field including debris and pipes*
- 8. Insert a plug into a receptacle *
- 9. Climb stairs *
- 10. A surprise manipulation task *
- *Walking is included in tasks 2-10.
Robot operation was completely wireless, including power. The wireless network was purposely degraded to mimic disaster conditions, including potential short blackouts to encourage independent, untethered robot function.
