Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for authorizing a user of a tractor-trailer to drive the tractor-trailer out of a plurality of tractors and trailers. The system comprises modules such as tractor modules and trailer modules. Each module comprises a user interface and a transceiver. A tractor module is located in each of the tractors and is uniquely associated with that tractor. The tractor module is also operatively associated with systems of that tractor. A trailer module is located in each of the trailers and is uniquely associated with that trailer. The trailer module is also operatively associated with systems of the trailer. In the system, a unique code is associated with each user and a central station sends this unique code to the modules, so that the modules enable the user to drive the tractor with the trailer.

Abstract: A modular robotic platform is provided having four legs mounted to a body. Each of the legs is mounted to the body via a steering assembly so as to pivot in a first plane relatively to the body. Each leg includes an endless track assembly having a first wheel, a drive system for driving the first wheel, a second wheel, an endless track for rotatably coupling the second wheel to the first wheel, and a track tensioning assembly for pivoting the leg in a second plane perpendicular to the first plane. Each leg includes a locomotion controller and a local environment recognition module. Synchronisation of the legs is achieved by a central controller, which gathers data information from each leg through a synchronisation bus. A coordination bus allows to exchange data information between different modules of the robotic platform, including the legs, the central control system and other systems or modules such as an energizing system, a pitch gauge system, etc.