
Neousys understands that the ability of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance unmanned vehicles for the defense industry is not merely about autonomy and its benefits, but also the scope of the vehicle’s abilities. Read more >>
Generally, it is accepted that the goal for military unmanned vehicles in the future is to replace military personnel battlefield entirely, where possible. The deployment of such vehicles to retrieve injured personnel in combat would not only reduce the chance of injuries to medical personnel in the field, but would also enhance small target search and hazards to operators, among other benefits.
For small target search specifically, vehicles can be fitted with a lightweight artillery weapon for self-defense that is equipped with the ability to identify a selected target. If it was fired upon in hostile territory, it may need to respond in situations if deployed in those areas.
The utilization of robotics arm is yet another unmanned vehicle application in the defense industry. This technology’s use in various applications brings safety to the personnel behind the controls, for instance an unmanned vehicle could be programmed for general road clearing tasks, sample collection, or even mine sweeping.
Challenges with Autonomous & Unmanned Vehicles in Defense
Deploying autonomous defense vehicles comes with its own set of challenges. Medical retrieval operations require sophisticated recognition systems, including cameras and sensors, to identify injured personnel accurately.
These systems must function seamlessly in complex environments, often requiring support from other unmanned vehicles equipped with robotic arms or the assistance of soldiers.
Similarly, integrating lightweight artillery systems presents hurdles. Shock and vibration from weapon fire, confined spaces for deployment, and heat dissipation are key considerations. The vehicle’s operational environment — ranging from sub-zero temperatures to extreme heat — further adds to the complexity.
AI-powered vehicles also require substantial inference processing power and connectivity. This ensures reliable communication with sensors, cameras for object recognition, robotic actuators, and real-time video feeds for remote monitoring and decision-making. The ability to capture and transmit high-quality images from the battlefield, even in low-visibility conditions, is paramount for mission success.
Ruggedized Solutions for Defense Applications
To meet these challenges, a robust system design is essential. A system integrator selected Neousys’ rugged embedded NVIDIA Jetson platform for its ability to thrive in harsh vehicular environments. This embedded solution integrates seamlessly with USB and PoE cameras, LiDARs, and sensors mounted on the unmanned vehicle.
The selected cameras, featuring IP67 waterproof ratings, high dynamic range (>120 dB HDR), auto white balance (AWB), and LED flicker mitigation (LFM), ensure consistent image quality across a range of lighting conditions, from bright daylight to pitch-black nights. These capabilities enhance situational awareness and operational reliability.
The NVIDIA Jetson SoM (System on Module) provides advanced machine learning and vision capabilities, enabling the vehicle to identify targets, execute countermeasures, and make split-second decisions in real time. Its ruggedized design, certified for shock, vibration, and temperature extremes (operating fanless up to 65°C and with optional fan kits up to 70°C), guarantees performance under demanding conditions.
Enhanced Communication and Control
Neousys’ solution includes internal expansion slots for wireless modules, enabling real-time data analytics and video upload. These modules ensure uninterrupted communication between the vehicle and offsite personnel, allowing for remote control and live monitoring. This connectivity ensures that operators maintain situational awareness and can make informed decisions, even from a distance.
The integration of AI, robust hardware, and advanced communication systems in autonomous defense vehicles represents a transformative shift in military operations. By reducing risks to personnel, enhancing decision-making, and providing unmatched versatility, these systems ensure that unmanned vehicles can adapt to a wide range of mission requirements.
Neousys’ rugged embedded platform serves as a cornerstone of these advancements, delivering the reliability and performance needed for future military applications. From medical retrieval to combat readiness, autonomous vehicles equipped with cutting-edge technology are poised to redefine the battlefield.
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