Reusable MEMS IMU/GPS/EO/RF/Laser Realtime Componentized Testbed for Future Combat System

This Phase II project is aimed at developing a novel MEMS IMU/DGPS/EO/RF/Laser sensor system to increase the autonomy and dexterity of the Future Combat System. This effort is a continuation of AGNC's effort in the application of microelectromechanicalsystems (MEMS) technology and vision processing to the smart crane system and development of an integrated high performance robotic control system. In Phase II, MEMS IMU/DGPS navigation system with an EO sensor package will be employed to accuratelyprovide both inertial and target-relative guidance signals. This enables automated tele-operation maneuvers such as cargo pickup/handling operations, and real-time motion planning/control with collision avoidance. A decision aids approach will be exploredand incorporated into the cargo handling system. A MEMS IMU/GPS/EO/RF/Laser real time testbed utilizing the AGNC GPS/IMU Realtime Simulator for decision aids and smart crane is employed. Palm navigators are used to track smart crane, pallets and soldiersfor the smart crane materiel handling. Optimal GPS attitude determination enhances the reliability and accuracy of MEMS AHRS/INS/DGPS Integration.The commercial products generated from the Phase II results are applicable to materiel handling and robotic applications. Great commercial potential exists in civilian and military areas, including environment protection, hazardous material handling,robotics, defense manufacturing, and command and control.