Autonomous Pallet Loader

Currently there is no system that allows for autonomous loading/unloading of cargo palletized on full- or half-size 463L pallets in tactical/austere environments. This results in a reliance on trained manpower (including fire teams) and specialized material handling equipment for unloading tasks in unsecured locations. Because manual handling of cargo increases time the aircraft is on the ground in the Landing Zone and increases exposure of personnel, autonomous capability to load and unload cargo would greatly reduce the burden on troops in the field to move supplies out of supplying aircraft. In alignment with the USMC Commandant's recent planning guidance, Stratom’s Autonomous Pallet Loader (APL) will be developed to meet the Marine Corps’ future needs for handling 463L pallets in remote locations without traditional material handling equipment. Specifically, the vehicle will accelerate and automate the movement of logistics supplies in addition to heavy and bulky long-range munitions such as the HIMARS and NMESIS to enable EABO and a persistent naval forward presence on land and at sea. The APL will be capable of picking up and transporting fully loaded 463L pallets from dunnage on the ground to the cargo area of CH-53K and C-130 aircraft.  463L pallets can either be transferred from the APL to the cargo ramp and into the cargo bay, or the APL can drive up the cargo ramp and be secured for flight in aircraft. The APL complements and enhances the ability to perform unmanned logistics resupply, to conduct Forward Operating Base (FOB) resupply, and to extend the operational reach of vertical connectors (helicopters / tilt-rotors).  This capability enables mission efficiency, ground resupply, and innovative unmanned ship to shore resupply techniques and procedures over disbursed operations.