Communication System is suited for use with TALON robots.
Press Release Summary:
TALON 2-way hailer provides encrypted wireless audio communications between TALON robot and operator up to 2,600 ft away line-of-sight. Controlled via portable, wearable control unit, system allows conversations to be conducted at 4 volume levels and includes 120 dB siren. Clip-on handset broadcasts and receives audio to and from robot and auxiliary input can be connected to MP3 player or laptop computer for playback of recorded messages or music.
Original Press Release:
TALON Family of Robots Introduces Two-Way Hailer Technology
WALTHAM, Mass., June 10 / / - QinetiQ North America, makers of the leading TALON® family of military/first-responder robots, announced today that it has created a two-way hailer capability for its robots that makes them more effective in a variety of scenarios because it enables the robot operator to "listen" and "speak" with high fidelity and volume control. Initial systems have been delivered to the SWAT (Special Weapons And Tactics) teams of police departments in Texas and Florida.
Developed by QinetiQ North America's Technology Solutions Group, the enhanced hailer provides secure encrypted two-way wireless audio communications between a TALON robot and an operator up to 2,600 feet (800 meters) line-of-sight away. Two-way conversations can be conducted at four volume levels from whisper mode to loud. The 120-decibel siren can be used to warn, distract, or disrupt voice communications. The two-way hailer is easy to install on a TALON and can be quickly transferred from one TALON to another.
"We feel our new, two-way hailer will be particularly useful for military checkpoints, building clearance, barricaded suspects, hostage negotiations and emergency evacuations, in short any situation where there's a need for urgent, two-way communication that might need to be whispered or shouted," said Dr. William Ribich, President of QinetiQ North America's Technology Solutions Group.
The TALON two-way hailer is controlled via a portable, wearable control unit that is completely separate from the robot control unit. It can be attached to a utility belt or vest using its Molle straps. The clip-on two-way handset broadcasts and receives audio to and from the TALON. The hailer's hand-held controller adjusts the handset and broadcast volume levels as well as activates the siren and auxiliary input. The auxiliary input can be connected to an MP3 player or laptop computer for playback of recorded messages or loud music.
TALON Two-Way Hailer at a Glance
- Volume adjustable two-way communications
- Police/Fire siren included
- Easy to install and remove
- Operates independently of the TALON operator control unit
- Continuous remote listening when not broadcasting
- Secure encrypted digital communication prevents third-party intervention
- Auxiliary audio input for MP3 player or laptop
Since TALON's initial deployment in 2000, the QinetiQ North America family of robots has expanded to include small, medium and large unmanned vehicles that can be configured for specific tasks, such as IED defeat, CBRNE/hazmat identification, reconnaissance, combat engineering support and SWAT/MP unit assistance. Today, more than 2,500 TALON robots are deployed around the world, surpassing any other military robot.
About QinetiQ North America
QinetiQ North America delivers world-class technology and responsive solutions to government agencies and commercial customers for many of their most urgent and complex challenges. QinetiQ North America is an independent, innovative technology provider that earns over one billion dollars in revenue operating with small company speed and agility while leveraging significant global resources. More than 6,400 QinetiQ North America engineers, scientists and other professionals have the mission knowledge and proven, reliable performance to meet the rapidly changing demands of national defense, homeland security and information assurance customers. For more information, please visit www.QinetiQ-NA.com.
About QinetiQ North America Technology Solutions Group
QinetiQ North America's Technology Solutions Group, headquartered in Waltham, MA, includes the businesses formerly known as Foster-Miller, Inc., Planning Systems Incorporated, Automatika, Applied Perception, Spectro, Inc., and the research and development activities of Apogen Technologies, Inc. It is an 800-member technology and product development group with an international reputation for delivering innovative products and systems that perform under the most demanding conditions.
Source: QinetiQ North America
CONTACT: Cindy Black, Technology Solutions Group, +1-781-684-4093, cblack@foster-miller.com, or Matt Warnock, +1-703-752-6528, +1-703-853-5511, Matthew.Warnock@QinetiQ-NA.com, both of QinetiQ North America
Web Site: http://www.qinetiq-na.com/
