Light-Weight ROV Unveiled by NIC Instruments

NIC Instruments has introduced a new light-weight remote operated vehicle (ROV) designed to offer a rapid response capability to troops dealing with terrorist bombs, at DSEi in London.

The aluminium and titanium First Responder can be deployed by a two-man team and can be broken down into modular components allowing it to be carried into difficult to access areas which other transport vehicles cannot reach.

Developed over the last two years, the ROV can be fitted with a three-section arm with a claw that allows it to lift objects and open doors.

It is controlled by a belt-mounted radio and touch-pad ruggedised laptop and integrates seamlessly with other PC-based software.

The first models are expected to be produced in March 2008.

By Elizabeth Clifford-Marsh