| Windows Mobile setup locates UXOs |
Oct. 16, 2006
 [Updated Oct. 19] -- Vallon GmbH, a specialist in ordnance sensors, has developed a Windows Mobile-based system for detecting UXOs (unexploded ordnances). The setup consists of a ruggedized Pocket PC, Vallon's EVA2000 Mobile software, and up to four ferrous (bomb) locators or metal (mine) detectors, according to Vallon.
Vallon says that its EVA2000 Mobile software allows data from up to four ferrous locators or metal detectors to be acquired, viewed, and evaluated on location, using the handheld. Alternatively, the data can be transferred to a PC, via a USB key and ActiveSync, for further processing.
 
Surface (left) and borehole (right) ordnance detection
(Click each image to enlarge)
Closeup of the handheld mounted on the detector)
(Click to enlarge) |
The setup can be used either for surface exploration, or for reading data from holes bored into the ground. For surface detection, the handheld can mount either directly on the detector (above-left photo), or on a vehicle. For borehole detection, the RPDA is worn on the operator's arm (above-right photo), which eliminates the need for assistance from a second person, the company says.
The transfer of measured data from the sensor to the handheld takes place either wirelessly via Bluetooth, or over a serial cable. For determining the position of the measured data points, a patented Vallon sensor-positioning system ("SEPOS") or a separate high-accuracy differential GPS can be used. Alternatively, without SEPOS or GPS, a fixed track/borehole length or constant walking/pulling speed can be entered manually, according to Vallon.
The handheld device used in Vallon's ordnance detection system is a version of Andres Industries AG's RPDA (rugged PDA), running Vallon's software application. The RPDA, in turn, is a ruggedized, repackaged version of Fujitsu's Pocket LOOX N560 Pocket PC.
Vallon's system utilizes an Andres RPDA
(Click to enlarge)
The RPDA runs Windows Mobile 5.0 Premium Edition. It's powered by an Intel PXA270 processor clocked at either 500 or 624 MHz (depending on model) and is equipped with 64MB of DRAM and 128MB of flash memory. Input/output ports include USB host and device, plus a serial port, and an SD/MMC card slot provides both memory and I/O expansion capabilities. Depending on the specific model, the device is also available with WiFi, IR, GPS, and Bluetooth, according to Andres. For its display, the RDPA boasts a full-VGA (640 x 480) color LCD screen. Other RPDA models, including ones with QVGA (320 x 240) screen resolution, may be supported in Vallon's UXO application in the future, a Vallon source says.
Andres claims that the RPDA meets "all present industrial standards," including splash and drop tests. The device is also available with an optional bracket for attachment to a motorcycle or bicycle handlebar, which apparently came in handy for mounting directly to Vallon's surface detector, shown above.
In Vallon's ordnance detection setup, a "power accumulator" provides power for a complete day without recharging, the company says.
According to Vallon, the entire ordnance detection system is sufficiently ruggedized that it can be used by military and private UXO removal companies.
Photos courtesy of Vallon GmbH
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