Feasibility of automated sample collection using a quadruped robot

The RAICo programme are investigating the potential of using a quadruped robot (Spot) as a robotic platform for remote health physics sample collection through swabbing, thus reducing health physics technicians' exposure to hazardous environments. To achieve this, RAICo have manufactured specialist sample collection tools designed to interface with Spot's robotic arm and mounting rails. The Contractor's scope shall include the requirements capture, design, manufacture, delivery, and functional demonstration (including all required testing, verification, and documentation) for the evaluation of Spot's autonomous navigation and automatic robotic arm motion performance. The focus will be on software development and the hardware used for evaluating the arm's overall performance but any supplementary hardware will be considered if it provides value to the final solution