1a: Define what is meant by a GPS-denied environment and provide one example where a rescue robot might encounter such an environment.[2 marks] Guidance: 1 mark for the definition, 1 mark for a relevant example.
1b: Briefly describe the purpose of an inertial measurement unit (IMU) in a rescue robot. [2 marks] Guidance: 1 mark for describing its purpose, 1 mark for accurately explaining its function in the context of a rescue robot.
2a: Explain the concept of 'robot drift' and discuss two ways it can impact the performance of a rescue robot in disaster situations. [4 marks] Guidance: 1 mark for defining robot drift, 3 marks for explaining its two impacts (1.5 marks each).
2b: Describe the role of sensor fusion in a rescue robot and list two types of sensors that might be used in this process. [4 marks] Guidance: 2 marks for explaining sensor fusion, 1 mark for each sensor type listed.
3: Discuss the challenges faced by rescue robots when navigating in dynamic and unknown environments, such as a factory affected by a natural disaster. Include three distinct challenges in your answer. [6 marks] Guidance: 2 marks for each challenge described, with emphasis on clarity and relevance to the scenario. 4: Discuss the importance of mapping technologies in the context of rescue robots and how they address the specific problems outlined in the BotPro case study.' In your answer, consider aspects such as environment complexity, GPS-denied environments, and the need for real-time information processing. [12 marks] Guidance: 4 marks for discussing the general importance of mapping technologies, 4 marks for analyzing their role in addressing complex environments, and 4 marks for exploring their application in GPS-denied environments and real-time processing needs.
CASE STUDY | SAMPLE PAPER 2
Question 1 1a: Define 'Sensor Fusion' and explain why it is crucial in rescue robots. (2 marks) 1b: Describe one key advantage of using thermal imaging in rescue robots. (2 marks)
Question 2 2: Discuss the ethical implications of decision-making autonomy in rescue robots. What are potential risks and benefits? (4 marks)
Question 3 3a: Explain how swarm robotics can enhance the efficiency of search and rescue operations. (4 marks) 3b: Analyse the challenges of deploying rescue robots in GPS-denied environments and propose one effective solution to overcome these challenges. (6 marks)
Question 4 4: "Liability and accountability are crucial when robots make autonomous decisions." Discuss this statement in the context of rescue robots, considering the existing legal frameworks and potential areas for improvement. (12 marks)
CASE STUDY | SAMPLE PAPER 3
Question 1 1a: Explain the principle of 'Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs)' and their role in the functionality of rescue robots. (2 marks) 1b: What are the ethical implications of using 'Real-Time Data Tracking' in rescue operations? (2 marks)
Question 2 2: Discuss how 'Machine Learning Algorithms' can be used to improve the operational efficiency of rescue robots. Include examples. (4 marks)
Question 3 3a: Describe the challenges and benefits of integrating 'Augmented Reality (AR)' in the control interfaces of rescue robots. (4 marks) 3b: Evaluate the impact of 'Robot Drift' on the accuracy and reliability of rescue operations and propose one solution to mitigate this issue. (6 marks)
Question 4 4: "Accessibility and equitable technology distribution are essential for maximising the benefits of rescue robotics globally." Analyse this statement, considering the challenges and potential strategies to achieve this goal. (12 marks)
CASE STUDY | SAMPLE PAPER 4
Question 1 1a) Define "loop closure" in the context of vSLAM and its importance for rescue robots. [2] 1b) Outline how LIDAR technology could complement the rescue robots’ capabilities in debris-ridden environments. [2] Question 2 2a) Evaluate the potential benefits and limitations of implementing multi-camera systems on rescue robots for enhanced environmental perception and mapping. [4] 2b) Analyse the role of machine learning algorithms in improving the efficiency of pose estimation for rescue operations within complex disaster sites. [4] Question 3 3: Detail the process and challenges involved in creating a dynamic and accurate map of an unknown environment using vSLAM technology in the context of rescue robots. Include considerations for environmental changes and obstacle detection. [6] Question 4 4: Considering the advancement in robotics and AI, envision a next-generation rescue robot that BotPro could develop to address the limitations identified in previous deployments. Discuss the integration of AI for autonomous decision-making, ethical considerations in autonomous operations, and the potential social impact of such technological advancements in rescue missions. [12]
CASE STUDY | SAMPLE PAPER 5
Question 1 a) Explain the term "data association" as used in vSLAM technology. What role does it play in the context of rescue robots? [2 Marks] b) Describe the use of inertial measurement units (IMU) in the context of navigating damaged buildings. [2 Marks]
Question 2 a) Discuss the benefits and challenges of using GPS technology in conjunction with vSLAM for indoor navigation of rescue robots. [4 Marks] b) Evaluate the implications of using high-resolution cameras vs. thermal imaging cameras on rescue robots during nighttime rescue missions. [4 Marks]
Question 3 Outline the steps involved in the initialization phase of vSLAM when a rescue robot first enters a damaged structure. Explain how each step is critical for accurate mapping and navigation. [6 Marks]
Question 4 Rescue robots are increasingly becoming integral to disaster management and response efforts due to technological advancements and the increasing scale of disasters.
Propose a new feature or capability that could significantly enhance the effectiveness of rescue robots in disaster scenarios. Describe how this feature would integrate with existing technologies like vSLAM and pose estimation. [12 Marks]
