iRobot released today new video of its Warrior robot, a beefed up version of the more well-known PackBot, demonstrating use of the APOBS, or Anti-Personnel Obstacle Breaching System, an explosive line charge towed by a rocket, with a small parachute holding back the end of the line. The APOBS, iRobot says, is designed for “deliberate breaching of anti-personnel minefields and multi-strand wire obstacles.”
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A3jab7rnIL0[/youtube]
More Info available – HERE
Pretty neat idea. The 0.6 meter (2 feet) path it creates seems awfully narrow though, especially if you are using it to clear a path in a mine field. Definitely not wide enough for a vehicle to go through.
Let me know when the more affordable Roomba gets equipped with weaponry, then i’ll buy one. :P
iRobot Warrior website – HERE