Case Study

Optimising Aerial Drones For Detection in Search & Rescue

Australia has a vast landscape, regions can be difficult to access and the sheer size of our country can also present some challenges for companies. Breaking down some of these barriers, Australian Droid and Robot (ADR) partnered with ARM Hub and utilised Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Manufacturing capabilities.

Queensland technology start-up, ADR manufactures remotely operated vehicles and drones for deployment in inaccessible areas and unsafe environments, including but not limited to mine sites.

ARM Hub was able to help ADR secure an Innovative Manufacturing CRC (IMCRC) grant to deliver a $425,000 project to further research and develop their AI and advanced robotics technology.

The project seeks to develop a new AI system for detection that can be applied to search and rescue (SAR) as well as defence applications. This work will support ADR’s growth in the global market, and help build investment and manufacturing capacity.

The benefits of ADR’s development

Fitting robotic inspection vehicles with military-grade networks, and high-quality locally manufactured components allows ADR’s fleet of remote inspection vehicles to do the dangerous work and keep personnel out of harm’s way.

In ARM Hub’s Learning Factory at Northgate, ADR’s tennance provides the perfect environment for them to conduct further research into computer vision technology with AI and robotics experts from QUT, whilst progressing their assembly and testing of ADR products

The project demonstrates ARM Hub’s ability to facilitate the accelerated translation of research into state-of-the-art products and services for industry.

With an increase in market demand and the opportunity to expand their operations it will allow ADR to widen their manufacturing footprint, resulting in an increase in new staff and specialists.

What’s Next?

Due to the importance of high precision detection systems, ADR hopes to further scale its manufacturing operations, with the research and expertise received through their ARM Hub tenancy.

With the endless possibilities and opportunities ARM Hub has provided ADR, the company is expanding to capture emergency services and the defence sector. Demonstrating the success and application of UAS in search and rescue operations will accelerate and broaden the adoption of industry 4.0 technologies, including advanced robotics and AI.