a history of cybernetic animals and early robots
The PaR-1 mobile manipulator. The vehicle and manipulator are powered and controlled by cable. The manipulator arm and the two TV cameras are mounted on articulated booms. The height of the central support tube is 68 inches. PaR was a subsiduary of GCA when this model came out. PaR-1 with its remote operating console. It …
Read More “1966 – “Herman” Mobile Remote Manipulator – PaR Systems (American)”
The Los Alamos Minotaur—presumably so called because of its bull-like strength and man-like arms—is an exception to the statement that electrical unilateral manipulator arms are used singly (fig. 108 below). A pair of manipulator arms plus a second pair of adjustable arms holding lights and TV cameras protrude from a sphere-like turret supported from above …
Read More “1960 – “Minotaur” Remote Manipulator – General Mills (American)”
1963 – "MRMU" Mobile Remote Manipulating1 Unit – FMC Corp. MOBILE REMOTE MANIPULATOR1 UNIT It is recommended that the Mobile Remote Manipulator Unit (MRMU) be selected for study in Phase I as the basic recovery system. This unit, as developed by the FMC Corporation for the Research and Technology Division, Air Force Weapons Laboratory, New …
Read More “1963 – “MRMU” Mobile Remote Manipulator Unit – FMC Corp. (American)”
"The Little Ranger," a mobile remote handler, extends man's reach and dexterity into radioactive, explosive or other danger zones "off limits" to humans. Monitored by TV or viewed through a shielding window, "The Little Ranger" can manipulate 50 lb. loads, reach up to 8 feet, tow an 850-pound weight, and turn on its axis. The platform 1 …
Read More “1961 – “Little Ranger” Mobile Remote Manipulator – General Mills (American)”
1953 – G.E. "O-Man" Manipulator Source: Popular Science, March 1964. G.E,'s Handyman is seen here mounted under an O-Man. Source: Meccano Magazine, February 1963. Perhaps the world's most powerful mechanical arm was developed several years ago in America. Named "O-Man" (for Overhead-MANipulator), this 15-ton remote-controlled giant makes possible the assembly or dismantling of large machinery …