Clearpath Robotics, a manufacturer of mobile robotics platforms for research and development, has launched Husky Observer, a fully integrated system designed to accelerate inspection solutions. This new configuration of the Husky will enable robotics developers and technology groups to build their inspection solutions and fast track their system development.

The Husky Observer has been designed to showcase the flexibility of the Husky unmanned ground vehicle (UGV), a platform built to endure all real-world terrain and ideal for observation missions. Fully supported in robotic observation systems (ROS), the robot can be used to program complex autonomous systems. Pre-installed with Clearpath’s OutdoorNav Autonomy Software, the Husky Observer is built for all types ofSource: Clearpath Robotics outdoor autonomous missions including but not limited to equipment monitoring, remote virtual inspection and detailed unmanned data collection.

The Husky Observer comes with a variety of sensors, allowing users to program points of interest and capture data for offline review. The pre-installed software enables developers to plan and execute missions with an easy-to-use web interface for autonomous navigation in outdoor environments. The web-based user interface also supports teleoperation mode, allowing users to control their vehicle remotely. OutdoorNav supports several inspection actions out of the box, such as audio, image and video capture, optional thermal capture, and provides an interface for users to integrate their own custom actions. The integrated system comes with a full featured ROS Application Programming Interface allowing advanced users to extend the capabilities of the system with their own add-ons.

The Husky Observer is best deployed by tech savvy personnel for:

• Remote virtual inspection, data sampling and image capture of infrastructure, high-value assets and safety critical equipment on oil and gas rigs, electrical substations, nuclear facilities, and solar and wind farms
• Unmanned data collection, scanning and quality inspection of job sites
• Remote construction site and progress monitoring
• Autonomous patrolling and monitoring of outdoor private and secured facilities
• Environment observation, real-time image transmission and data capture
• Remote crop and soil monitoring in orchards, vineyards, and other light agricultural environments.