TRIBE(Toolbox for Robots with Intelligent Behavior Engine)

Small unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) have provided an invaluable tool to the warfighter by saving lives and supplies while increasing mission effectiveness. As with most emerging technologies, early adopters have been focused on immediate improvements rather than the long term growth or plug and play compatibility. This fact is evidenced by the large number of ad hoc systems being demonstrated to DoD customers. Interoperability and standardization goals have not yet materialized for IED Defeat applications. This research opportunity is a unique chance to create an infrastructure with an emphasis on logical communications between heterogeneous sensors and actuators, rather than a stand-alone toolbox. This infrastructure is the first step towards the standardization of a mission toolset. The proposes toolbox will provide innovations in shared control driving, characterization and neutralization behaviors, and intelligent manipulation control.