Ed Gummow

I started Digital Concepts Engineering in 2002; since becoming active around 2017, we are now regarded as global leaders in Uncrewed Vehicle technology, most notably in the conversion of legacy platforms to remote control and to future autonomous control. Converted vehicles include Armoured Fighting Vehicles such as FV510 Warrior, the US HMMWV, assorted trucks, 4x4s, 6 and 8-wheel platforms, bomb disposal robots and bespoke uncrewed vehicles. We achieve this using our own control system, Marionette. This is essentially a toolbox of vehicle or payload interface modules, controlling the engine, transmission, steering, braking, and other vehicle functions along with a variety of payloads, from digital sensors to hydraulic manipulators. This allows extremely rapid vehicle conversions, down to around 6 weeks from vehicle arrival in our workshops. Marionette can also be used to replace or upgrade obsolete control systems, extending the life of otherwise solid platforms, as demonstrated on the Wheelbarrow EOD robots. DCE also design and manufacture our own range of UGVs. Called “X-series” these platforms range from 250-400kg and come in many flavours, including reconnaissance (up to 20kph) and fully submersible “bottom crawlers”. They are powerful, reliable, and cost effective, and have been used in several defence, agriculture, and nuclear decommissioning roles. Our team is constantly growing, and we are delivering projects in the UK, US and Europe as well as supplying Marionette components for EOD upgrades in the UK and the Middle East. If you have a project that needs remote control, or are an aspiring engineer with a passion for robotics, get in touch with us.