UMPAS - Implementation of autonomous vehicle control based on passive localisation

In war situations, as is currently the case in Ukraine, the disruption of supplies is a key element. In general, supply convoys are exposed to an increased threat from IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices). Automated military convoys with passive navigation offer the possibility of transporting supplies undetected through dangerous (enemy) areas while ensuring the protection of soldiers. In addition, supply depots are high-value targets. Small, distributed warehouses therefore offer better security of supply in war scenarios, but at the same time also an increasing logistical complexity that can hardly be managed without automation. Logistical operations already play a central role today, for example in Lebanon with the ‘Multi Role Logistic Unit’ transport unit.

Goal

For this reason, UMPAS has set itself the goal of researching an autonomously driving lorry that uses only passive sensors and can react to critical terrain situations. This lorry should be able to automatically follow a pre-trained, moderate terrain route at a moderate speed (<= 20 km/h) on a laboratory scale in daylight and without precipitation using passive sensors and without infrastructure such as GNSS.