NEXT GENERATION EOD ROBOT, INDUSTRY DAY ANNOUNCEMENT

Notice Date

July 2, 2001

Contracting Office

Navy Engineering Logistics Office, 1420 South Eads Street, Arlington, VA 22202

ZIP Code

22202

E-Mail Address

Click here to contact the POC (saxonb@tswg.gov)

Description

The Department of Defense's Combating Terrorism Technology Support Office (CTTSO), Technical Support Working Group (TSWG) will be holding a briefing to industry on The Next Generation Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Robot. The briefing will be held at 10:00 a.m. August 15, 2001 at the Booz, Allen & Hamilton, McLean Campus Facility, located at Tysons Corner, Virginia. All attendees must register with Mr. Benjamin Saxon (phone: 703-604-1714; fax 703-604-1729; e-mail saxonb@tswg.gov). Although there are currently several robotic platforms available to EOD teams, the useful life span of these systems is rapidly coming to an end. The EOD mission requires personnel that can make quick decisions and often adapt their tools in the field to combat a variety of threats. The lack of adaptability and limited capability of existing systems has frustrated many EOD teams worldwide. A new generation of robotic systems and new tools is required to meet the increasing terrorist threat in the US and abroad. This new generation system must have the capability to insert technology in a manner that is easily integrated. Advances in technology can be applied directly to system capabilities and advanced techniques of design can be applied to system support and maintenance. A modular design approach not only provides the end user with the ability to increase the capability of the remote system; it also provides an upgrade path for users who cannot initially obtain a system with all the features that are desired. As the sophistication of terrorist threats increases, the weapons that counter these threats must also increase in their sophistication. The only method to keep pace with this "high-tech" threat is to have a system that can be modified quickly and easily. This project addresses this concern by developing the Next Generation Robot for EOD operators. The unique and often dangerous tasks of Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) personnel mandate a versatile, yet easy to use, suite of tools. The tools must be readily available, have a high degree of survivability, and provide surgical precision. This program launches the next generation of remotely operated tools to achieve these capabilities and further increase the margin of safety for EOD technicians and potential victims of terrorism. The goal of this effort is to save lives through the application of remotely operated systems to the numerous EOD-related tasks. The primary goals in the development of the Next Generation Robot for EOD are: Expedience The tools are readily available, require limited technical knowledge or skills, are operable with minimal infrastructure support, and provide utility directly applicable to the task at hand. Versatility The EOD technician requires a variety of equipment for a variety of tasks. The design of robotic equipment must address ease of use and timeliness for field reconfiguration. The system must be applicable to a broad range of operational scenarios such as rural/urban and indoor/outdoor environments. Force Multiplication The provision to address multiple facets of the operation without increasing manpower requirements can be met through the use of robotic systems. These machines can easily multiply the impact of one technician by providing additional load capacity, more powerful lift and move capability, and enhanced sensory perception. In addition, robotic intelligence will allow operators to effectively control multiple systems, allowing for higher levels of multi-tasking. Low and Reasonable Cost Unit cost typically dictates the availability, performance, and robustness of a product. The EOD technician requires solid tools that are ready at a moment's notice and are reliable throughout the operation. However, vendors must understand that low and reasonable cost is of paramount importance. Sustainability The longevity of the tools is dependent upon the initial tool quality as well as the plan to provide logistics support. In addition, growth beyond the initially developed systems will be addressed through a solid engineering life-cycle approach. This program is designed to provide a steady stream of robotic technologies and capabilities to the EOD community throughout the entire life of the research and development effort. By exploiting the capabilities of industry, academia, and government institutes, clear goals will be maintained and met through examining proven technologies and incorporating innovative ideas. This research and development approach transitions early demonstration of ideas and concepts in a logical and cost effective manner while investigating a wide range of applicable technologies. Design modularity, technology transition plans, cost and benefit analysis, and demonstrated integration of these technologies are the cornerstone of achieving a significant increase in capability, performance, and sustainment. The vision of this effort is to provide the technicians with low cost and highly versatile tools for combating the ever-present terrorist threat.

Web Link

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Record

Loren Data Corp. 20010705/SPMSC010.HTM (W-183 SN50Q6E0)