A newly-issued report describes how scientists in the US have modified the controller used in conjunction with the Nintendo Wii games console to control military robots.

In a gaming context, the so-termed “Wiimote” control system utilises wireless technology to pick up on the movements made by the controller. This allows those playing on the Wii to simulate the “real life” physical movement of the game they are playing, such as swinging a golf shot or hitting a return ball in tennis.

Now, according to the New Scientist publication, a pair of scientists has built on this technology so that it can be used in military applications.

Douglas Few and David Bruemmer are both based at the US Department of Energy. Together, they have converted a mine-clearing robot so that it responds to Wii input signals.

PackBots Used in Afghanistan, Iraq

The robot in question is the PackBot – a tactical robot first used by the US military six years ago in Afghanistan.

PackBots remain in operation in Afghanistan and also in Iraq.

The missions PackBots have carried out include building searches, minefield crossings and other urban warfare roles. Their intervention means that the risk of human life being lost is reduced.

Few and Bruemmer carried out the PackBot modifications after discovering that its regular controller demanded too much attention from those operating it. The Wiimote was found to be more instinctive in operation, meaning that the operator’s attention could turn to the information being picked up by the PackBot.

Apple Iphone for Military?

PackBots aside, the two scientists are looking at the possibility of using the Apple Iphone in a military context. The Iphone, they say, could take over from the laptops presently used by soldiers.

The PackBot is one of a number of robots made by the US firm iRobot.

Source – Armed Forces International’s US Correspondent

Further Resources:

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Companies supplying Robots, Bomb Disposal