Surrogate teleoperated vehicle (STV)

The design of the STV is described. The STV system consists of two parts: the remote platform (RP) and the mobility/RSTA Module (MOB/RSTA). The RP consists of the carrier base and the remote control electronics that provide an interface to all systems on the STV and the communication system. It is based on an off-the-shelf Polaris six-wheel-drive, Ackerman-steered all-terrain vehicle that can exceed 58 km/h. The current automatic drive train will be modified using a dual motor hybrid concept that incorporates an electric motor to provide slow speed mobility when an ultraquiet mode is required. All electronics are packed in waterproof enclosures that allow for easy changeout of electronic components for simple and rapid maintenance operations. The modular MOB/RSTA module consists of an elevating mast and a pan and tilt turret with a variety of sensors. The electronics for the control of all turret functions, including sensor interfaces, are totally self-contained within the turret