Low-cost sensors for UGVs

With the advent of the Future Combat System and the system of systems approach to development of a deployable and lethal medium force, unmanned systems are viewed as essential contributors to provide the necessary capabilities while at the same time improving soldier survivability. One of the most critical missions for both unmanned ground and air platforms is Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and Target Acquisition (RSTA). Unmanned systems have the advantage that they may be put in harm's way. The systems must, however, be designed to be affordable to enable aggressive use that may result in loss or damage during operations. Advances in sensors, machine perception, and advanced computer architectures have made a semi-autonomous Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) a reality. While still requiring a man in the loop with a low bandwidth communication link for supervisory planning and control, the UGV can carry out numerous mission activities otherwise performed by manned systems. This paper will present an NVESD concept for a cost effective targeting system along with a discussion of sensors and concepts for autonomous mobility.