Sensing through Vegetation & Snow for Autonomous Operations

Autonomous systems are playing a larger role in how the Air Force is modernizing bases. The research and testing that will be performed during this Phase II SBIR will assist in addressing Air Force base modernization, along with reducing the risk of life-threatening hazards with a focus on resilience, sustainability, and smart technology that can serve as a model for the entire Department of Defense. The Air Force has “reached a critical point in time” where it must assess the “enduring strength, resiliency, and efficacy of its installations,” explained Brig. Gen. William H. Kale III, the Air Force director of civil engineers and deputy chief of staff for logistics, engineering, and force protection. To do so it will need to lean heavily on its partnerships with small business innovators. We believe technology development under the subject SBIR topic may eventually contribute to solving a mission need.   Renu Robotics’ autonomous mowing systems are equipped with the latest sensors and real-time kinematic (RTK) GPS correction, enabling accuracy within centimeters. Additionally, because of its sensing capabilities, the Renubot can mow anytime day or night. Well-maintained areas with high security make ideal applications for current systems; however, for operation in remote areas and low maintenance areas, additional sensing technologies are needed. The next generation of autonomous maintenance and mowing tractors need to detect if objects like metal, or rocks, are present within vegetation. Additionally, holes from animal burros or washouts due to heavy rain pose a chance of mowers getting stuck or falling in crevices. A new suite of sensors with the ability to provide feedback of ground presence and damaging objects would substantially improve the durability of autonomous systems and allow them to operate for long periods of time without intervention. Continuing the R/R&D efforts initiated in Phase I and further development of the Renubot under this Phase II SBIR will contribute to solving the DoD’s critical mission needs. The 28th Mission Support Group has expressed that it would be safer as we have already had several incidences of mountain lions being spotted in and around some of the mini-mute missile launch simulators and equipment. Having a robot instead of a person may actually save lives. An extension of the use of the investigated technology could improve the opportunity to build autonomous snow removal equipment.  Snow covers many objects in northern climates. Large items, even cars, can be covered by large snowbanks. The technology research will review the feasibility of detection through snow.