QinetiQ Launches ARKs for Hazardous Environments

QinetiQ recently launched a range of Appliqué Robotic Kits (ARKs) designed to convert the current in-service military JCB 4CXM or CAT320B families of vehicles into fully integrated remote controlled units for use in various hazardous environments in less that 12 hours, giving users control of the vehicle from as far as 1 km away. In addition, the ARKs are designed to allow existing vehicles to change between full remote or manual mode, thus reducing potential dangers to the operators but still enabling it to be fully used for tasks for which it was designed. The product is ideal for plant operators and drivers often placed in real danger when working in hazardous environments or involved with activities that deal with military operations, nuclear waste or chemical management, contaminated and hazardous land clearance, and other unstable land place with significant safety risks and safety management issues. Each kit comprises a Portable Command Console (PCC), Vehicle Mounted Control Modules (VCMs) and a host feedback interface and electro-hydraulic system for each specific vehicle. The electro-hydraulic modules are vehicle specific, with all the other components being generic.