Integration of the Fido explosives detector onto the PackBot EOD UGV

The digital, modular architecture of the iRobot PackBot EOD has been exploited to integrate an explosives vapor detector. This expands the usefulness of the UGV from its core EOD role to checkpoint vehicle inspections and facility clearing. From initial tests to deployment and training in Iraq and subsequent user feedback, we present the trials and tribulations of this effort from the perspective of the engineers that traveled to Baghdad.