Robotic Radio Communication System

A system and method for maintaining communications in urban environments by utilizing an automatic robot radio relay system

The U.S. Navy seeks to commercialize U.S. Patent Applications 11/832,065 (Wireless, self-contained relay device), and 11/832,103 (Relay device deployer systems).

Background

Mobile robots are increasingly used for operations conducted in life-threatening and hazardous environments, such as in mining and explosive disposal applications. Control and communication of current robot systems usually rely on line-of-sight communications. High-frequency digital and analog radios currently used are subject to limited battery power, signal range, and interference that is undesirable when used in urban environments and dangerous settings. To overcome these limitations, power amplifiers and larger antenna can be added for increased signal range; however, constrained real estate, increased battery power consumption, and robot mobility become issues.

The Technology

SSC Pacific has developed a method and system for using a robot and relay radio system to maintain the communications link between the user and the robot. The system is platform independent, continuously monitors the network, and automatically deploys relay radios when the signal falls below a predetermined threshold. Each relay radio automatically positions itself upright and opens
to release the antenna. The radios form a network, and maintain a line of sight between each radio to complete the link between the user and the robot.

Key Benefits

System automatically deploys the relay radios, requiring minimal dependence on the user for initial setup

Allows users to choose when to deploy the relay radios if desired

System requires no external power, which increases its range of operation

While in sleep mode and not in use, system consumes extremely low levels of power, allowing it to last for months without recharging

System can travel longer distances and into areas previously unreachable

System is platform independent, and can work on a variety of robots

Up to six modules can be deployed with current system

Development Status

U.S. Patent Applications pending: 11/832,065, 11/832,103

Total R&D: $1.5M and 8 years

DoD 5000 Series Technology Readiness Level 6: System prototype demonstration in an operational environment

Operational test data results available

Second-generation system developed with increased functionality

For more information on technology transfer, please contact us at (619) 553–5118 or email ssc_pac_t2@navy.mil
SD 782, March 2008. SSC Pacific, San Diego, CA 92152–5001. Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

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Updated: 10/17/2011 3:34 PM EST Published (1.0)