Enhancing MTRS Robot’s MK2 Battery Box Runtime, Reliability, and Capability for DoD

Roadside bombs and other threats place our troops and other responders in harm’s way. Advanced unmanned vehicles and robotics, like the Man Transportable Robotic System (MTRS), play a critical role in removing personnel from dangerous environments by performing tasks without the need for direct human manipulation. In 2008, the Department of Defense (DoD) determined that it needed to extend the run time of its MTRS robots. Instead of purchasing costly replacement components from the original manufacturer, DoD determined it could achieve cost efficiencies by designing a new battery box that could hold additional BB-2590 lithium-ion batteries to extend mission duration.

After developing an initial design, DoD turned to Battelle to produce multiple prototypes within 60 days After Receipt of Order (ARO) for proof of concept testing, implement design for manufacturability improvements to improve productivity and reduce cost, produce over 1900 units to meet an urgent warfighter need, and deliver a complete technical data package to the customer for future competitive procurement.