New Vehicle Technology

Wednesday, 25 September 2013

Technology that treads danger to save lives

Tristan Perez with his invention

Tristan Perez to present at DiG Festival

World-leading vehicle technology researcher at the University of Newcastle, Tristan Perez, says we are on the verge of widespread use of intelligent autonomous vehicles (IAV) for border patrol, rapid emergency response, search and rescue, bushfire and flood monitoring, and early detection of threats to national assets. Appearing at the inaugural Design, Interactive Technology and Greentech (DiG) Festival in Newcastle this October 2-5, Associate Professor Perez will discuss the latest global innovations and challenges in this space.

A crucial benefit of this technology is its ability to undertake dull, dirty, and dangerous tasks that would otherwise have been conducted by humans.

"IAVs can save lives by placing themselves in harsh or dangerous environments humans would rather not find themselves in. They allow operators to safely monitor a situation remotely while increasing awareness and tactical options," said Associate Professor Perez.

Associate Professor Perez' latest research has significant potential to impact on commercial industrial products developed in collaboration with Boeing Research and Technology Australia. His previous work has also contributed to Australia's border control capability by helping to increase the operational effectiveness of patrol vessels used by the Australian Customs Service.

Associate Professor Perez' latest work focuses on the assessment of IAV technology capabilities within existing defence, national security and civilian environments.

"Developing and maturing these vehicles will require significant research efforts and innovation in areas of technology, certification, business, and public acceptance," said Associate Professor Perez.

Visit the DiG Festival website for the full conference program.

Contact

  • Sheena Martin
  • Phone: +61 2 4921 8714

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