“Well-put-together device with adequate capability for a number of robot control uses. Vender has history of working with different robot mfg'ers.”

“Actually asked while I was deployed why they did not have a system like this. This could save money, provide better range, more battery lift. And better use of space on vehicle. When an OCU got down in country, you must turn in the robot and OCU. To do a 1 for 1 swap on hard drives and on radios would save money and time. The fact that we don't have a system like this seems stupid...”

The Flexpedient™ Revolution
A typical Flexpedient Interoperable Solution consists of a computer, an Application Module, and a swappable hard drive. Infinitely flexible, this simple combination is able to configure an OCU for control of virtually any unmanned system.

AMREL’s patent-pending Flexpedient technology enables a single computer to configure multiple platforms for multiple unmanned systems. If a combat unit uses a TUAV as well as a UGV, one computer can be outfitted with modules for each system. Change the unmanned system; change the module. It's that simple.

Flexpedient solutions reduce the footprint of OCUs as well as their cost of procurement and maintenance. They increase interoperability, integration, sustainability, and the flexibility of the command & control of unmanned assets.

Change the Mission as Easily as Changing a Tire
Multiple Flexpedient Solutions can be assembled from a Modular Unmanned Systems Kit & Interface Tools (MUSKIT). A one-box system, the MUSKIT enables field personnel to quickly put together multiple configurations of Application Modules, computers, and hard drives as needed.

Before deployment, a commander can design a MUSKIT specific to his mission requirements. Since the commander can easily swap modular components, he no longer needs to plan for challenging logistic support or carry multiple OCUs.

Once MUSKITs become standard for OCUs, providers can create modular components for their specific unmanned systems. Since production and procurement will be streamlined, costs and delivery time will be reduced.

Control Modules
Modules can be outfitted for applications other than radio control. They can be configured to be instruments for biometric data collection & analysis, sensor monitoring, etc.

Common Control with Proprietary Technology
The Flexpedient modular approach enables common control, while allowing developers to preserve their proprietary technology. The developers simply integrate their proprietary applications  into the modules, which are then easily swapped in and out of a single interoperable computer platform.

Streamlined application distribution and validation
Flexpedient Solutions create a sustainability channel to identify and distribute new technologies. Since new developers are no longer responsible for the entire solution, they can quote the lowest possible price point.

Furthermore, Flexpedient Solutions are built on the ROCKY line of computers, which have been battle tested in theaters around the world. By attaching their application to an established platform (AMREL has been supplying mobile computers to the military for over 20 years), developers have an easier time demonstrating and validating their technology.

Common Control, Here and Now
While not creating a true Common Operator Control Unit (COCU), Flexpedient Solutions are a big leap forward Department of Defense’s goal of interoperability. This is the first OCU solution that allows a single device to control heterogeneous unmanned systems, even when they have diverse operating systems and different origins of manufacture.

Though a true COCU is years away, Flexpedient Solutions currently deliver an unprecedented level of enhanced interoperability. System integrators and robot manufacturers don’t have to wait for the future. AMREL has a common control solution for unmanned systems here and now.