RE2 to develop HDMS for US Army
RE2 has announced that it has been selected by the US Army's Armament Research, Development and Engineering Center (ARDEC) to develop a two-arm Highly Dexterous Manipulation System (HDMS). The award was issued under a Phase II Army Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) competitive contract.
The work will focus on work to enhance the capabilities of unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) currently used for explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) to perform critical tasks such as inspection, detection, and neutralisation of explosive devices. These systems currently include a single arm manipulator, and are often limited in their dexterity, reach and lifting capacity.
RE2 will develop the dual-arm HDMS technology to provide the robot operator with capabilities that far exceed currently fielded single-manipulator robots. These capabilities include inspection in tight and cluttered spaces, manipulating wires, opening bags or packages, unscrewing lids on containers, and other abilities to provide access and information while operating at a safe distance.
RE2 currently holds prime contracts with various branches and organizations of the US military, including the Navy, Army, Air Force, and DARPA, to develop advanced manipulation systems that interoperate with both existing and future robotic platforms. According to the company, RE2's development efforts are focused on creating plug-n-play manipulation systems and end-effectors that are interoperable with existing and next-generation robotic platforms.
More from Uncrewed Vehicles
-
Israel’s MALE UAVs ‘must adapt’ to Iranian-made air defences
Advancements in air defence technologies have begun to reshape aerial combat dynamics in the Middle East, as illustrated by recent events involving the Israeli Air Force and Hezbollah.
-
Hundreds more UAS sent to Ukraine forces with thousands more on the way
Both sides of the Russia-Ukraine war have been using UAS for effective low-cost attacks, as well as impactful web and social media footage. Thousands more have now been committed to Ukrainian forces.
-
AI and software companies selected for US Army Robotic Combat Vehicle subsystems
The US Army has intentions to develop light, medium and heavy variants of the Robotic Combat Vehicle (RCV) as part of the branche’s Next Generation Combat Vehicle family.
-
DroneShield to improve software of DroneSentry-X C-UAS system under new contract
DroneSentry-X, a cross-vehicle compatible, automated 360° C-UAS detect and defeat device, can offer 360° awareness and protection using integrated sensors. According to its manufacturer, it is suitable for mobile operations, on-site surveillance and on-the-move missions.
-
Ukraine takes delivery of new indigenous C-UAS systems
Funded by the country’s former president, the new C-UAS systems will be sent to the frontline where they have already been tested against Russian invading forces.