HIAs provide position and velocity control. HIAs allow easy backdriveability of high power, high force actuators. This enables easy conversion between teleoperated and manual control modes. Even the simplest components like cables and connectors are the highest quality available to assure optimal long term reliability in harshest of environments. This allows rapid software design evolution and application code development for applying the STS system components to new vehicles, even before the hardware exists.
Remote operation protects operators from hazards in the work area.
Teleoperation provides audio, video, and telemetry feedback to the operator. This information can be recorded for a permanent record of the activity, environment, and mission.