Battlefield Extraction Robot (BEAR), a robotic system used to extract and carry wounded soldiers from battlefields, was first developed at Cambridge Research Laboratory, Massachusetts. The robotic system has an all-terrain tracked mobility platform as well as a powerful hydraulic higher body. It also has night vision cameras and optical cameras. It can carry weapons, communications equipment and support gear.
BEAR is equipped with six-degrees of motion that allows it operate in any position between horizontal or vertical extremes. It has a unique motion capture system that can be used to control it by the movements of a human operator. The BEAR is also capable of being controlled via vocal commands. Its sensors can send data back to the human operator. This means the BEAR can operate in a wide variety of challenging situations. It can also perform a variety of tasks autonomously, such as moving a fully-weighted human from semi-prone to supine, or carrying a wounded soldier.
The hydraulic actuators that power the BEAR’s upper body allow the robot's ability to move fully-weighted individuals from supine positions to prone. The upper arm is equipped with three hydraulic pistons. One controls wrist flexion, one controls elbow extension, and the third is located within your chest cavity.
BEAR's lower body uses a tracked mobility platform. It is powered by a central lithium battery pack that can be electric-actuated. The treads run along the side of the legs and offer the most traction. The treads make it possible for the BEARs not to be hampered by steep slopes or other difficult terrain.
The BEAR's torso is flexible and can telescope up or down. This can be used to climb stairs and reach high items. This can also make it easier for balance.
The BEAR is also equipped with a robust hydraulic system that can lift and move fully weighted people from supine positions to upright positions. The robot's hydraulics are also capable of transporting a fully-weighted person from sitting to supine, and from semi-prone to prone.
The BEAR's top body includes two independent tracks that are powered by electronics. The articulated arm 40 has a lower arm 42 and an upper arm 41, and the hand 50 is attached to the lower arm at a wrist joint 44. The gripping member 51 is equipped with a thumb like member 52. This allows for human-like gripping positions.
BEAR can work in a variety environments, such as navigating through a building or climbing stairs. The robot has a wide range of mobility and can transport heavy loads as well as communications equipment. The BEAR also comes with a fire-resistant lithium battery. BEAR's current battery is capable of providing power for approximately an hour. It can also be powered by an optional onboard generator. BEAR's future battery pack will have a double capacity. This will allow the robot more time to function.