Maxx plus: About robots in humanitarian demining
The development and implementation of robotics in mine and UXO clearance, this is what our MAXX+ project is all about. “Our” stands for HEC, the R&D department of MgM. HEC means “Humanitarian Engineering & Consulting”.
In general we can say that machines in whatever production process are only used where they, in sum total, are cheaper than human labor.
There is a need and a use for robotic assistance in handling of unstable explosives according to your moral and ethical standards. Any life is invaluable, machines can be replaced and it is only a question of money.
Requirements
One of the requirements identified was to spare human lives in unnecessary blasts and raise accuracy and effectiveness of repetitive tasks like probing/prodding, moving sensors, digging, sifting, vegetation removal etc.
This was initially tackled using armored equipment like backhoes, (Rotar Mk II) etc. These met the basic requirements, but still put operators at risk as they often entered the mine filed to complete the task.
This led to the development of remotely controlled machines of all shapes and sizes. This addressed the operator hazard issues but at the expense of “in-the-cab” operator perception and control precision.
The next step is to automate some or most of the machine functions to “pay back” the precision lost when the operator was relocated off the tool. HEC is pursuing this currently with semi-automated attachments such as the Rotar sifter on the MAXX+ Mine Action Multi-Tool. Certain operator controlled functions are being automated due to the lack of real time, eyes on target, feedback that you normally get in the cab. This semi-automation can be applied to other aspects of the system as well. From simple engine shutdown on low oil pressure to automatic sensor sweeps of a 3m square dog box once the operator has positioned the machine. The first generation Maxx prototype is currently deployed in the Rwandan mine fields. (Read and see more here)
The approach
MgM/HEC recognizes the difficulties inherent in such systems and is working on systems to aid the operator, rather than replace the operator. The hope is that these systems will require a less skilled operator. Two systems currently under development are TTC (Tool Tip Control) and STAB (Stability control systems) to minimize operator error in such a way that the machine takes the necessary corrective actions. This is another way of seeing a positive use of robotics in HD: it only prohibits the operator to kill himself.
Lessons learned
We learn with interest of the short comings of other EOD robots. Many of those we have overcome in the MAXX programme. Battery life is a problem? Well how about a turbo diesel with alternator/generator/inverter? The robot can’t climb over a fallen tree? Well, there is a minimum weight/size ratio for outdoor use. For a single tool it is about 2 tons, for multi tool it is about 5 tons. Something broke and nobody can repair it? Well, how about working with well-established COTS (Commercial Off the Shelf) components like Perkins engines etc. The remote control is sensitive to VHF handheld radios? Why the hell don’t you work with industrial remote controls as safely used in nuclear power plants since ages? Too many obstacles to see the machine? Why not using a normal office internet link like Wi-Lan (the core of HEC ARC/Angel RC) that works near-line of-site (meaning in cities or forests using the obstacles for bouncing around) up to 15 km distance?
Capabilities
What does a MAXX+ actually do? Well, as it is based on a heavy duty, industrial mini-excavator: it can drive, turn the turret and operate the attachment in a flowing process all at the same time, e.g. for vegetation clearance along a road. It can climb 45 degree slopes, can cut vegetation of all types using different attachments, it can visually analyze ordnance, grab it and transport it to the same pit over and over, it can load fuel drums, do normal lifting work, dig trenches etc at 6 meters reach. It is well enough armored to withstand large AP blast and frag. The operator sits somewhere far way in the shade with a bottle of water, a small generator, a golf club size antenna and just a medium size suitcase of equipment with monitors in the lid. He sees the camera views, hears the engine sound, see the gauges and a real-time status animation created from feedback sensors on all moving parts of the machine.
Step by step
The next version designed as high-precision sensor carrier will do all above and more, but the wireless control kit is an attaché, a lightweight headset and joysticks only. The robot transits, creates access, analyses, recognizes, unearths, destroys and documents in one go and non-stop. The operator might never know if the robot is in a virtual or in a real minefield – just like in real life.
The right machine in the hands of the right operators on the right task. As a result you will have safe, precise and cost effective hazard operations with one rugged all-terrain semi-automatic multi-purpose machine guaranteeing the dignity and physical well-being of the local operator.
