Hosted at The Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center in Grayling, Michigan, in 2017, the Project ORIGIN Increment One event consisted of a multifaceted approach to covering drive functions, attachments, and mission capabilities of the platform. As part of the Robotic Combat Vehicle (RCV) enterprise, the Project ORIGIN MUTT platform is a technology demonstrator for upcoming advancements in autonomy, robotics, and mission readiness functions. The Increment One Event was designed to showcase all that Project ORIGIN could offer – particularly in the areas of off-road capability, implementation of tactical attachments, and increased distance operations.

Some of the attachments and technology highlighted in this event were:

Hardware:

• Unmanned Aerial System (UAS)
• Modular Smoke Obscuration Module (SOM)
• Commonly Remote Operated Weapon Systems (CROWs)
• Counter-UAS Jammer
• MPU5 Persistent Communication System
• Joint Chemical Agent Detector (JCAD)
• Tactical Intelligence Targeting Access Node (TITAN)

Software:

• Autonomous drive functions integrated with the Warfighter Machine Interface (WMI)
• Robotic Technology Kernel (RTK)

Alongside the various hardware and software tests which were highlighted, drive functionality and platform capabilities were also put to the test. The Project ORIGIN Platform utilizes a three-step drive functionality, including:

• Hand Held Remote (Wand): Fitting into the palm of your hand with a singular joystick for operating the platform, the Wand method is lightweight, compact, and ultra-functional.
• Tether: By clipping an ultra-light line to the pack of an individual, the ORIGIN platform can detect walking speeds in real-time and continue to follow the individual without clipping their heels or being any additional resistance.
• TeleOperations: Utilizing a standard handheld tablet system, the ORIGIN platform can be remotely operated from a distance, eliminating the need for individuals or warfighters to be within proximity during potentially dangerous situations.

VIDS Corp Involvement:

VIDS Corp’s process for this event began as we began all of our events – by asking questions. Consulting with project managers, engineers, support staff, etc. takes first priority for VIDS Corp when arriving at a new event site. Understanding where we can and cannot be occupied by personnel, what can and cannot be filmed, and what the event’s focus is are all taken into consideration during this process.

This event, in particular, was unique in that the Project ORIGIN team wanted to be sure and highlight all of the capabilities the MUTT platform had to offer. VIDS Corp was given total control of mission sets and objectives in order to get the best possible coverage of the platform.

VIDS Corp utilized a variety of never-before-seen in defense space technology when it comes to the content collection field. State-of-the-art drone technology allowed VIDS to capture events from various angles and heights, something that had not been utilized in this space before the event. Alongside drone usage, VIDS Corp utilized their extensive Sony camera collection, including the A6000 and A7III, for photos. GoPro cameras, as well as handheld gimbals, also played a large part in the content capture for this event.

Event Conclusion:

Being fully immersed in the event allowed VIDS Corp to successfully capture all capabilities that the Project ORIGIN MUTT platform offers. This was also the first opportunity for VIDS Corp to take on a large-scale government client that allowed unbridled access to their platform, mission sets, and attachments.

VIDS Corp completed two different video deliverables, as well as multiple photos, to emphasize how successful and necessary this program is for the future of the RCV program and the way soldiers make contact on the battlefield moving forward. Being able to shine a light on Project ORIGIN being a continuously low-cost, high-reward program is crucial to the future of not only the program but of our warfighters and their fielded equipment.