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Robotics and remotely Controlled Weapons: A
number of unmanned ground vehicles, remote weapon stations (RWS),
panoramic vision systems and ancillary equipment were on display
at MDM and AUSA, representing the growing interest in these
systems. RWS are becoming integral element in modern combat
platforms - not only on armored vehicles, but also on tanks,
aircraft, and naval crafts and even robotic platforms, where
RWS are empowering telepresence with lethal power, as robots
are assuming more and more combat roles. (more...)
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Mobile Fusion's Scout
Ball
Lockheed Martin hosted several robotic platforms. One of these
applications was the Scout Ball, a baseball size sphere made
of LEXAN, weighing less than one kilogram. Scout Ball is equipped
with visual and IR cameras, microphones, position sensors, signal
processing and data recording. This ball can see, hear and store
information as it monitors its surroundings. The Scout Ball
was developed by MobileFusion and is designed for military,
law enforcement and firefighting applications. The Scout Ball
system includes two spheres and a monitor based on a Toughbook
30 laptop and a battery charger. The Scout Ball can also be
used as an unattended mobile sensor, attached to an aerial or
ground robot. (See also Eyeball-1
and SpyBall)
 VIPeR
from Elbit Systems
Elbit Systems introducing at MDM 07 the latest version of its
Versatile, Intelligent,
Portable Robot (VIPeR). This small robot was developed for
the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) within the framework of its
Portable Unmanned Ground Vehicle (PUGV) program, and in close
cooperation with The Israeli Ministry of Defence’s Directorate
of Defense R&D (DDR&D).
Following operational evaluation, the IDF plans on fielding
VIPeR in its infantry platoons. The VIPeR is one of te robotics
platforms considered for the IDF future dismounted combat team.
It will be able to carry a small electro-optical payload, acoustic
sensors and light weapons. (See also SpyRobot
RW and PacBot Early)
Segway RMP
Another robotic platform displayed at LM was the Segway Robotic
Mobility Platform (RMP). Segway offers several platform models,
from the lightweight (70 lbs/32 kg) two-wheeler RMP50, designed
for smooth, flat indoor or outdoor surfaces, to heavy duty 157
lb (71 kg) dynamically stable two-wheel RMP 200 ATV and the
RMP 400, a 240 lbs (109 kg) four wheel robot designed for extremely
tough operating conditions, over rugged terrain. One of the
unique characteristics of the Segway robots is their high payload
to weight ratio.  For
example, the small RMP 50 weighs only 70 lbs (32 kg), but has
a
maximum payload capacity of 75 lb (34 kg). The RMP 400 has even
better ratio - at a curb weight of 240 lbs (109kg) it can carry
400 lbs of payload (181 kg). These robots are designed to operate
at a range of 10 - 15 miles (16-24 km) at an off-road speed
of up to 18 mph (29 km/h). The RMP robot is powered by 48 NiMh
batteries while the larger models use multiple Saphion lithium-ion
battery packs. Both versions require battery recharging for
8 - 10 hours. Although these are well adapted to harsh field
conditions, the batteries temperature tolerance limit their
operational use from -10 to +50 C. This range could be expanded
by using different batteries, which could be more suitable for
sub-freezing conditions. (Some Saphion cells operate as low
as -20C).
MAARS Weaponized Robot
Foster-Miller, Inc. (QinetiQ North America subsidiary) introduced
at AUSA the Modular Advanced Armed Robotic System (MAARS), representing
the company's mature concept for operational, weaponized combat
robot. MAARS is powerful and agile system designed specifically
for the military and first responders. Compared with the company's
current SWORD and TALON robot, MAARS packs a more powerful platform,
designed to carry heavier loads including the fully functional
Small Caliber UltraLight (SCUL) remote weapon system from Precision
Remote, mounting a 7.62 M240B machine gun or a 0.5 Cal Barret
high power anti-material sniper rifle. MAARS also introduces
significantly improved Digital Control Unit offering improved
situational awareness, command and control. The controller provides
improved weapon control functions, better aneuverability, mobility,
lethality and safety.
The complete MAARS system weighs about 350 pounds. The chassis
is constructed as a uni-body frame fitted with easier battery
and electronics accessibility. Other features include a larger
payload bay, higher torque, creating faster ground speeds and
improved braking. An EOD MAARS will be equipped with a new manipulator
arm having a nominal 100 lb lift capability. The arm can quickly
replace the turret mounted M240B weapon, literally transforming
from a remote weapons platform to an Improvised Explosive Device
(IED).
Other topics covered in this review:
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