AURA:

Autonomous Uncrewed
Remote Analysis

Improve Situational Awareness With Real-Time CBR Detection

The Autonomous Uncrewed Remote Analysis (AURA) sensor platform is a significant advancement in small-scale CBR detection. Typical handheld sensor units must be carried by a user, but with AURA, sensors are integrated into a portable lightweight UAV-mountable platform. Once deployed, these sensors feed data back to an operator to provide real-time threat profiling in the field. The main AURA system is a small, lightweight UAV payload that features interchangeable sensors to detect, classify, locate, and identify CBR agents. Where possible, the platform uses COTS/MOTS components to ensure ease of access in supply chains, reduce required operational training, and minimize payload costs.

Flexible UAV
Platform

Range of
Sensor Types

COTS/MOTS
Components

COTS/MOTS
Components

Custom
Software

Custom
Software

Remote and Local
Data Logging

Market Ready

Deploy as a UAV, Standalone, or Deployable Payload

The AURA system is designed to be mounted on a Teledyne-FLIR R70 UAV, but can also be used standalone or as a deployable payload. The standalone module has been developed to allow for placement on the ground, in a building, or mounted onto another UGV or UAV. This allows for multiple sensors to be deployed in the field in various ways. As a non-proprietary UAV, users may be more familiar with its components and can operate it with greater ease in the field. It is one of the few drone platforms authorized to fly in restricted US airspace.

Interchangeable Sensors


One of the defining features of the system is that sensor payloads are fully reconfigurable with minimal effort. This allows first responders or soldiers in the field to adapt to whatever threat they are facing. AURA is compatible with a range of sensor types capable of detecting chemical, biological, and radiological agents. The platform uses commercially available sensors that are in use by the Canadian Forces as well as a newly developed directional radiation sensor developed by Amtech Military & Automation Systems.

The currently supported system sensors are:

  • Chemical Sensors
    • Smith Detection LCD 3.3
  • Biological Sensors
    • Range of high flow and low flow particle counters. Range of 0.35 to 40 microns for N3 (high flow) and 0.35 to 10 microns for low flow.
  • Radiological Sensors
    • Kromek GR-1 (CZT based spectrometer)
    • Sigma 50 (scintillator crystal CsI)
    • Custom Directional – multi-crystal – different types CsI, NaI. Capable of detecting both counts but also azimuth and polar angle of detected source.  It consists of eight crystals in a 2x2x2 structure.
    • A deployable payload version that contains a battery and encrypted radio link has also been developed that can be dropped off remotely from the UAV.  It will typically last approximately 6-12 hours depending on the battery size and sensors connected.
    • Standalone version for long-term monitoring and data gathering.  This system can be connected via Ethernet or wireless radio system to transmit both locally and to transmit the information back to the operator.

There are no hard limits on the number of systems that can be connected but rather the bandwidth available on the network.  The system has been successfully tested with 22 systems online and transmitting data back to the control system.

Designed With COTS/MOTS Components


Wherever possible, AURA uses COTS/MOTS system components that are readily available and in use by the Canadian Forces. These were selected to minimize training and operational adjustments for operators already familiar with the UAV platform. By not relying on proprietary components, parts are more readily accessible, the platform is easier to upgrade, and costs are greatly reduced.

Custom Software for Real-Time Viewing and Analysis


AURA makes use of customized software that is designed to be used quickly by a single user. The first software package is a plugin that can be loaded into the MCS Flight Control Tablet Software used for the operation of the R70. This displays pertinent information back to the flight operator during the operations.  The second software package is more advanced and multisystem-capable and has been developed for the secondary operator of the system during flights. This software is capable of connecting to multiple AURA sensors at once, including the aircraft sensor payloads, standalone sensors, and deployable payloads. AURA is also ATAK integration supported.

Remote and Local Data Logging and Integration


Field users can access comprehensive data from an AURA sensor in real time and multiple deployed sensors of supported types can simultaneously feed data back to a single user interface. This enables field personnel and commanders to make informed decisions with accurate information. All AURA payloads log internally with capacity for several weeks of logging as a backup in the event of network interruptions or if no communication is possible during their placement.

AURA is Available and Approved For Use


AURA has undergone extensive testing and evaluation to become market-ready. It has passed operational field testing and evaluation at TECFT (June 2023) at Dugway Proving Ground. It is currently ready for use.

At Amtech, We Take the Best of Research and Technology Into the Real World

Amtech Military & Automation Systems (AMAS) is an operating division of Amtech Aeronautical Limited (AAL) that specializes in aerosol monitoring and analysis. Our team’s expertise combined with our ongoing collaboration with the world’s best researchers have led us to develop groundbreaking solutions for airborne particle collection and detection. AMAS was created in 2020 with the acquisition of the Dycor Technologies Ltd. (DTL) CBRN assets. AURA technology is licensed from the Department of National Defence (DND).

Interested in More Detailed Information? Connect Directly With Our Team.

Markus Lemke

Sr. Associate, Business Development,
CBRN Technologies
1-403-809-9291
markus.lemke@amtech-group.com