IAI Demonstrates Multi-Arm Robot Control Software at the DARPA Robotics Challenge Expo

HOMESTEAD, Fla., Dec. 20, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Intelligent Automation, Inc. (IAI) will demonstrate its Multi-Arm Robot Control Software (MARCS) technology at the DARPA Robotics Challenge (DRC) Expo taking place at Homestead-Miami Speedway on December 20-21, 2013. The robot prototype, known as MARCS, consists of a dual-arm torso manufactured by HDT Robotics, a custom-built chassis with tank-style treads, and is operated by IAI's innovative robot control software. IAI's MARCS technology was funded, in part by the Navy, to investigate innovative approaches for explosive ordnance disposal.

The MARCS robot prototype will be participating in multiple live demos throughout the Expo event. These live demos will be conducted in collaboration with the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab's "Robo Sally" dual-arm mobile platform. The two robots will be performing a simulated casualty evacuation task, during which they will utilize their dual-arm dexterous manipulation to operate a fire extinguisher, remove debris, stabilize the victim and safely transport the victim away. Both robots are operated remotely using revolutionary operator control techniques.

The demos are scheduled for 10:20am and 2:20pm on both Friday and Saturday in Dynamic Expo Area B. At other times, IAI and the MARCS technology will be sharing Booth F4 with HDT Robotics or will be demonstrating in the DRC Expo Sandbox area.

"Intelligent Automation is excited to have an opportunity to showcase its MARCS technology at the DRC trails", said Dr. Vikram Manikonda, President of IAI. "Humanoid and multi-arm robots are going to become an integral part our society in the near future and will change the way we use robots in the military, disaster relief, and our daily lives. We are confident that our research into control of high degrees of freedom, dexterous, multi-arm systems will lead to novel ways for behavior-based autonomous and semi-autonomous control of these robots."  

The DARPA Robotics Challenge was designed to catalyze the robotics community to develop advanced robots that can assist humans in mitigating and recovering from future natural and man-made disasters. The DRC Trials are free and open to the public and media. In addition to the competition, the on-site DRC Exposition will showcase technology related to disaster response, robotics and autonomy.

About Intelligent Automation, Inc.
Intelligent Automation, Inc. (IAI) is a technology innovation company headquartered in Rockville, MD.  IAI specializes in providing advanced technology solutions and R&D services to federal agencies, and corporations throughout the United States. IAI leverages agile R&D processes, a multi-disciplinary collaborative environment, and its substantial intellectual property portfolio to excel in developing concepts into market-focused products and customer-driven solutions.  IAI's core R&D areas include: Air Traffic Management, Big Data and Social Media Analytics, Control and Signal Processing, Cyber Security, Education and Training Technologies, Health Technologies, Modeling and Simulation, Networks and Communications, Robotics, and Sensor Systems.  For more information about IAI please visit www.i-a-i.com.

Related Links:
http://www.i-a-i.com/?core/robotics-and-electromechanical-systems.html
http://www.theroboticschallenge.org/expo

Media Inquiries - Contact
Dr. David Handelman
Director of Robotics and Electromechanical Systems
Intelligent Automation Incorporated
Tel: 301.294.4252
[email protected]

SOURCE Intelligent Automation, Inc.