Autonomous Airfield Repair Robotics Swarm Platform
ID: AF233-D030Type: BOTH
Overview

Topic

Autonomous Airfield Repair Robotics Swarm Platform

Agency

Department of DefenseN/A

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: BOTHYear: 2023

Topic Link

https://www.sbir.gov/node/2448027

Additional Information

https://www.defensesbirsttr.mil/
Timeline
  1. 1
    Release Aug 23, 2023 12:00 AM
  2. 2
    Open Sep 20, 2023 12:00 AM
  3. 3
    Next Submission Due Oct 18, 2023 12:00 AM
  4. 4
    Close Oct 18, 2023 12:00 AM
Description

The Department of Defense (DoD) is seeking proposals for the topic of "Autonomous Airfield Repair Robotics Swarm Platform" as part of the SBIR 23.3 BAA. The objective of this research is to demonstrate the ability of a robotic swarm platform to autonomously accomplish airfield repair tasks currently performed by personnel. This includes tasks such as damage assessment, UXO identification and removal, spall and crater repair, paint striping, and airfield lighting.

Currently, airfield repair is a labor-intensive and time-consuming process that requires substantial training and equipment. Adapting robots to perform these tasks has the potential to expedite the repair process and reduce errors.

The project will be conducted in two phases. In Phase I, applicants must demonstrate the feasibility of their technical solution, including a software platform for monitoring and commanding individual robots, a base robotic platform with various attachments, environmental sensing capabilities, and autonomous operations within the swarm. Phase II will involve adapting the technology to meet the specific requirements of airfield damage repair and recovery.

The potential impacts of this technology extend beyond airfield repair. From a military standpoint, the technology can be extended to perform other simple tasks, creating a force multiplier effect. In commercial applications, autonomous robots capable of performing interrelated tasks have potential uses in natural disaster recovery and remote maintenance.

The project is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR) or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR) due to the sensitive technical data involved. The application due date for this solicitation is October 18, 2023. For more information, visit the DoD SBIR 23.3 BAA on grants.gov or the Defense SBIR/STTR website.

Files
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