Carnegie Mellon University Robotics Institute

National Robotics Engineering Center

E N G I N E E R I N G T H E F U T U R E O F R O B O T I C S

Black Knight
NREC developed sensing, teleoperation
and autonomy systems for Black Knight,
a prototype unmanned ground
combat vehicle (UGCV).

Unmanned partner for dismounted

ground forces and vehicles.

Performs forward observation,

scouting, remote surveillance and
target acquisition (RSTA), and other
missions too risky for manned vehicles.

Technology Demonstration

Joint project with BAE Systems, which supplied

Black Knights structural and mechanical systems
Showcases advanced UGCV capabilities with
currently available technologies

Extensively tested at the Air Assault Expeditionar

Force (AAEF) field trials, where it successfully
performed forward observation missions and gave
soldiers an advantage in both day & night operations

Sensing, Teleoperation & Autonomy

Senses its environment with color stereo cameras and LADAR

Color and FLIR driving cameras allow day and night operation

Can be teleoperated via operators station in Bradley Fighting

Vehicle or radio controller
Robotic Operator Control Station (ROCS) provides an
easy-to-use interface for driving Black Knight
Capable of autonomous and sem-autonomous operation
in extreme terrain.
Autonomy system plans efficient paths, avoids obstacles
and terrain hazards, and navigates between waypoints
Assisted teleoperation combines human driving with
autonomous safeguarding and obstacle avoidance

Prototype Development Sponsor:

BAE Systems