Deployment of Shaped Charges by a Semi-Autonomous Ground Vehicle

Abstract

Neutralization of remotely operated Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) is a dangerous task risking human lives on a daily basis. BigFoot seeks to replace the local human component by deploying and remotely detonating shaped charges to destroy IEDs. This research developed a platform that can autonomously navigate GPS waypoints, avoid obstacles, and provide remote user controls for an onboard robotic arm to deploy and remotely detonate shaped charges. BigFoot incorporates improved communication range over previous Autonomous Ground Vehicles and an updated user interface that includes controls for the arm and camera by interfacing multiple microprocessors. BigFoot is capable of avoiding static and mobile obstacles as well handling most surfaces with minor slopes. BigFoot continues to be somewhat limited by communications range and GPS availability. However, BigFoot is an ideal platform for relatively short range deployment to neutralize roadside IEDs.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 01, 2007
Accession Number
ADA470035

Entities

People

  • John F. Herkamp

Organizations

  • Naval Postgraduate School

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Advanced Electronics
  • Autonomy
  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Sensors
  • Space
  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Basic Programming Language
  • Computer Programming
  • Computers
  • Control Systems
  • Detection
  • Detectors
  • Explosive Devices
  • Global Positioning Systems
  • Graphical User Interface
  • Ground Vehicles
  • Human Factors Engineering
  • Shaped Charges
  • Surveillance
  • Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
  • Unmanned Ground Vehicles
  • User Interface
  • Voltage Regulators

Fields of Study

  • Computer science

Readers

  • Combustion Dynamics and Shock Wave Physics.
  • Robotics and Automation.
  • Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Autonomous Capabilities and Mission Reconnaissance.

Technology Areas

  • AI & ML
  • AI & ML - Autonomous Systems
  • AI & ML - DoD AI Strategy
  • Autonomy
  • Space
  • Space - Spacecraft Maneuvers