Mission Payload for Small Urban Robots

This proposal will address the payloads and the integration issues associated with small unit UGV robot systems defined as systems that could be disassembled and backpacked or hand carried to a forward position. These robots will support dismounted andmounted infantry and will be particularly useful in urban and dense forest terrain that will not be directly addressed by the larger FCS systems. The focus will be on developing an ability to hotswap payloads in a self configuring plug and play format.The payloads will be automated to the degree possible, as will the Operator control unit. Three payloads will be selected and the physical, electrical and software integration techniques will be demonstrated. (P-00809) Small robotics has the potential ofextending the soldier's reach and minimizing his risk. A modular robot that can be reconfigured in the field will greatly expand the utility of the base system. By automating the swap-out configuration, less training and stress will be placed on thesolider/operator, resulting in a more reliable system.