Evaluation of The Operational Benefits Versus Costs of An Automated Cargo Mover

This report examines the use of an automated robotic pallet mover during resupply missions in support of forward-deployed Marine units. The pallet mover is capable of loading and unloading itself and its cargo from MV-22 and CH-53 aircraft, and subsequently transporting that cargo 3,281 feet over unimproved terrain. The report explores the operationally relevant scenarios where a robotic pallet mover could be used, to determine whether it is beneficial. The scenarios are used to quantify the different performance measures using the pallet mover compared to traditional methods of working parties composed of available Marines and material handling equipment such as forklifts. The robotic pallet movers logistics footprint and life-cycle cost are presented as part of this report. Analysis of modeling and simulation results identified statistically significant differences between the three methods robotic pallet mover, working parties, material handling equipment for loading and unloading, and impacts to logistical footprints, number of sorties, and cost. The benefit of the expeditionary Robo-Pallet is in its ability to quickly embark and debark from aircraft, reducing the time aircraft spend on the ground waiting for cargo to be loaded or unloaded. This report recommends additional investigation of other potential benefits or drawbacks.