An agent based hybrid analog-digital robotic sensor web meta-system

A low cost, simple, agent based, robotic sensor web to collect exploration data is a major and efficient asset to any exploration initiative. The Hybrid Analog-Digital Robotic Sensor Web (HADRS) provides this asset. HADRS is a meta-system rather than a system because it is an operational concept. This is the case, as HADRS can be used on any robotic system, of any physical configuration. HADRS will also operate in any environment, terrestrial, planetary, and space... HADRS will disperse a large number of inexpensive Mobil Agents or Mobile Units (M/U) over a wide area. Their initial search patterns will be random. The cost is low due to an inexpensive analog subsystem. When the payload instruments detect a target of interest, an autonomous, simple onboard feedback loop between the instrument and the hybrid analog/digital steering system, will guide the robot to the target.