A ‘golf bag’ of robotics and autonomy could soon be protecting lives by replacing people in dangerous situations where there are chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear threats.

The concepts, designed and developed by Oxford Dynamics, Createc, Autonomous Devices and the University of Bristol have received more than £2 million in funding via the Defence, Science, and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) from the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).

Defra will use these tools for enviornment remediation and recovery work.

The unique capabilities of these tools could also offer solutions to challenges across UK defence and beyond as well as supporting more than 100 specialist jobs.

Oxford Dynamics have fused AI and advanced robotics to develop a prototype tracked machine called Strider.

The robot will work out the best way to pick up, collect, and store samples, which involves capabilities in object detection, assessing surface quality, and estimating weight.

Mult-directional Drone

Autonomous Devices, a robotics defence and manufacturing firm, have created a multi-directional drone with a swabbing system to test for contamination in hard to reach places, such as entering upstairs windows.

This device also includes the potential to apply decontamination spray.

Robot Control Software

Createc, an emerging sensor technology firm, has developed robot control software to enable their fleet of robots to gather information and samples to deal with an incident including a drone, a robot dog, and four-wheeled vehicles.

These vehicles are autonomous but can be switched over to remote control is requried, with the ability to climbe stairs, open car doors, and use tools.

Recommended reading

• Scotland and UAE Deepen Tech Ties with Robotics Hub
• Google’s New ‘App Defense Alliance’ to Tackle Malware Problem
• Can the UK Catch Up in the Global Robotics Race?

Uncrewed Ground Vehicle

The University of Bristol is pioneering an uncrewed ground vehicle with a robotic arm that would work with a tethered drone to carry out decontamination with a spray system at a range of heights.

“Science and technology are vital in preparing for the future and whatever challenges and opportunities that brings,” chief scientific adviser at Defra, Professor Gideon Henderson, said.

“These innovative solutions could help remove people from hazardous situations and ultimately save lives.

“We are delighted to work with our partners at Dstl and harness this expertise along with some of the top minds in universities and industry.”

This work is part of a wider partnership established by Dstl and Defra.