ROBOTS AND THEIR APPLICATIONS

Since the beginnings of civilisation man has had a fascination for a human-like creation that would assist him. Man had discovered mechanics and the means of creating complex mechanisms which would perform repetitive functions. Technological advances were slow but there were more complex machines, generally limited to a very small number, which performed more grandiose functions such as those invented by Hero of Alexandria. We are interested in achievement associated with the construction of military robots, space robots, medical robots, etc.

Military robots: XM1219 Armed Robotic Vehicle


Military robots are autonomous robots or remote-controlled devices designed for military applications. Such systems are currently being researched by a number of militaries.

The XM1219 Armed Robotic Vehicle is a mobility platform based on the MULE Platform. The ARV-A-L MULE Vehicle (XM1219) will feature an integrated weapons and reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition (RSTA) package to support the dismounted infantry’s efforts to locate and destroy enemy platforms and positions. The ARV-A-L will support both anti-tank and anti-personnel weapons platforms that will be remotely operated by network linked soldiers.

Mobility

* Transportable inside a C-130 Hercules and CH-47 Chinook.

* Transportable, slung under a UH-60 Black Hawk.

* Climb more than a 1 metre (3 ft 3 in) step.

* Cross a 1 metre (3 ft 3 in) gap.

* Traverse side slopes of 40 percent.

* Ford water obstacles over 0.5 metres (1 ft 8 in).

* Cross obstacles as high as 0.5 metres (1 ft 8 in).