Remote Video Guidance System Proven in Desert Conditions
28.01.2008
A Mini MineWolf equipped with a new Remote Video Guidance System (RVGS) has been successfully deployed for demining operations along the Jordan-Israeli border by Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA). The machine is an integral part of NPA’s humanitarian demining operations in the region where over 1,400,000 m² of AP- and AT-mine contaminated land have been cleared by NPA along the Jordan-Israel and Jordan-Syria Border in Wadi Araba and Aqaba since October 2006.
The machine’s robust performance was characterised by the following achievements:
- Operation in extreme heat (51°C, 124°F) and dust, suffering no downtime
- No instance of overheating due to heavy-duty filter and cooling systems
- 8 to 10 hours of continuous operation without refueling due to 210 liter fuel tank
- Excellent remote video quality: the Mini MineWolf with tiller channels dust away from the camera.
The RVGS is a new option for the Mini MineWolf and is based on a Sony industrial grade digital video camera with 18x optical zoom and full swivel capabilities: 360° horizontal and 180° vertical degrees of movement. The camera is encased in a special housing which is resistant to extreme weather conditions, shrapnel, small arms, and vandalism. An integrated wiper system and high placement of the camera insures a clear line of site to the working tool.
Operation of the video camera is done via a remote console with digital transmission for perfect picture quality. The console includes joystick control of all camera movements, daylight LCD display, dust and shock resistant pelicase. The RVGS provides the following benefits:
- Allows operators to work in a more comfortable environment reducing fatigue and errors
- Superior quality assurance due to better visibility of the tool and ground
- Pre-programmed positions allow quick recall of camera positions
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