Darpa Seeks Miniature Networking Robots For Urban Combat

Darpa recently announced that it wants proposals for self-healing miniature "LANdroids" that could help U.S. military members fighting in cities. The droids would intelligently choose locations and self-configure to form a mesh wireless voice/data network that isn't dependent on line of sight, according to the Darpa spec sheet. The networks could supplant radio communications, which are often ineffective in urban combat. The new network pathways would be redundant. Soldiers must be able to drop the robots (no heavier than 2.2 pounds each) and go the other way, without having to return to a dangerous area to retrieve them. The robots must be able to move slowly through indoor areas, and should cost about $100 each. Designers must use inexpensive, long-life batteries and program the robots to conserve power when necessary. "The LANdroid is meant to be carried into the field, and as such it must not be a brittle or delicate platform," Darpa said in its 34-page announcement (PDF). "They must be sufficiently rugged and robust to perform credibly and reliably in the field. For the purposes of this task, we will evaluate platforms based on their ability to withstand reasonably hostile environments in terms of mechanical shock, vibration, temperature, dust, and humidity." The robots don't have to be designed for climbing stairs, but Darpa said it welcomes novel ideas.