The PackBot 525 is an advanced unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) designed by Teledyne FLIR Defense, a division of Teledyne Technologies, to cater to the diverse needs of defence forces in various operational scenarios.
The man-portable and multi-mission PackBot 525 can be deployed in under two minutes, showcasing agility by effortlessly climbing stairs and navigating narrow passages.
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Its applications include explosive ordnance disposal, surveillance and reconnaissance, lift and carry operations, and chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear detection.
Additionally, it is utilised in hazardous materials (HazMat) handling, route clearance, special weapons and tactics callouts, and remote inspections.
The UGV is part of Teledyne FLIR’s PackBot robots product portfolio, which includes the PackBot 510. Deployed in 57 countries, the PackBot robots have been instrumental in disarming more than 70,000 improvised explosive devices, underscoring their pivotal role in enhancing operational safety and efficiency.
PackBot 525 UGV design and features
The PackBot 525 multi-mission robot has a height of 20.5in (52.1cm) and weighs 57.9lb (26.3kg) without batteries.
It has a ground clearance of 3in (7.62cm) and conveniently stows in a vehicle, fitting neatly in a car trunk.
The UGV is equipped with a manipulator lift capable of handling 44lb (20kg) for close-in tasks and 11lb (5kg) at its maximum extension of 73.5in (187cm), which offers enhanced operational flexibility.
The robot’s advanced features include improved communications, a tablet-based controller and a common architecture facilitating seamless integration of cameras and attachments to meet diverse mission requirements.
PackBot 525 is controlled by the uPoint multi-robot control system, which includes a tablet with touchscreen control and optional hand controllers. It transmits real-time video, audio and sensor data, ensuring operator safety by allowing remote operation.
Its compatibility with the Wave Relay® mobile ad hoc networking solution enables robust network connectivity for coordinated operations.
Performance
The PackBot 525 robot has a speed of up to 5.8mph (9.3km/h). Its zero-radius turn capability enables it to ascend and descend slopes up to 43° and handle lateral slopes up to 40°.
The robot can climb stairs with a 40° incline, accommodating a rise of 8.5in (21.6cm) and a run of 10in (25.4cm).
Power unit details
The PackBot 525 robot offers a runtime of up to four hours with two BB-2590 batteries and up to eight hours with four BB-2590 batteries.
Optional in-situ charging capabilities allow continuous battery monitoring and charging without the need to remove batteries from the robot.
Payload
The PackBot 525 features three state-of-the-art HD cameras, enhanced LED illumination on the head and turret, and a laser range finder for accurate target range display. It delivers superior imaging capabilities across diverse environments.
The robot features a forward-looking infrared/long-wave infrared (FLIR/LWIR) thermal camera, which transmits the thermal image directly to the robot controller. Its new laser range finder accurately displays the range to the target and features two-way audio.
PackBot can use sensors to detect chemical, biological and nerve agents, as well as radiation and explosives.
The robot features accessory port enhancements and improvements to its digital architecture, making it easier to integrate and position sensors and payloads. Its multiple payload ports support disruptors, HazMat/CBRN sensors, and various other accessories.
The PackBot 525’s integrated CBRN sensor payloads enable an operator to remotely monitor the environment. It is compatible with accessories and mounts for disruptors from leading manufacturers.
PackBot 525 UGV orders
In June 2022, Teledyne FLIR Defense announced the delivery of 127 PackBot 525 UGVs to the German Army (Deutsches Heer).
The contract award and deliveries were managed through Teledyne FLIR’s partner, European Logistic Partners (ELP), based in Wuppertal, Germany.
