Slim Form Cargo Loader/Unloader

The Pallet Automated Loading System (PALS) is an autonomy-enabled, size-tailored, terrain-adaptive, tracked pallet-handling solution designed to meet the needs identified in this solicitation with respect to loading and unloading of the 463L pallet system for the C-130 Hercules aircraft. The novel take on a handling system to accommodate the slim form factor 463L pallet utilizes a primary structural frame equipped with a dual, ruggedized, and treaded track system to enable sufficient weight bearing capability and mobility across expected landing strip and landing strip adjacent terrain (gravel, hard packed dirt, asphalt, etc.). The mobility-enabling structural frame supports a low-friction, roller-lined load platform equipped with a compact high-force actuation system to accommodate relative tilt (up to 13°) induced by loading ramp angle, which sits several inches off the ground floor when perfectly level to allow the 463L pallet to rest above the tracks with optimized clearance. To either remove or acquire a single 463L pallet, PALS utilizes a rigid and long-travel distance zip-chain actuation system with end-effectors designed to interface with the 463L pallet tie-down locations. This mechanical actuation system provides a harsh environment-capable solution for both pushing and pulling of the pallet on and off of the PALS platform to reduce the physical burden on the warfighter, and enable a secure locking connection for the pallet during removal or depositing of the 463L payload (up to 10,000 lbs.). The electromechanical systems are stowed and powered in the AFT housing enclosure, which supports user interface, manual controls, communication/connectivity electronics, power, and actuator stowage. Power is supported by a dual-fuel generator capable of leveraging gas and/or LiFePO4 batteries to generate approximately 60W of peak power with enough charge to support load and/or unload of up to six (6) 463L pallets. Autonomous capability will be enabled through integration of machine vision sensors (via LiDAR, infrared, standard optical, etc.) at the FWD section of the slim-form factor pallet handling system. Design and integration of the embedded systems will align with advances in utilization of existing high-security kernels (seL4) for Robotic Operating System (ROS)/Robotic Technology Kernel (RTK) with Nvidia Jetson TX2 to support remote or AI piloting of the pallet handling system. Through the novel combination of subsystems packaged to a weight of <4600Lbs. with maximum dimensions of <88”x108”x76”, PALS provides a novel solution to load and unload 463L pallets (up to 10,000Lbs.), deposit or retrieve the payloads to or from the ground, and travel up to 500m (.31mi). Within Phase I Dynovas will conduct the necessary trade studies, perform detailed design and analysis, and execute overall proof-of-feasibility to demonstrate PALS to TRL3, and set the stage for prototype development within the Phase II effort.