Concept Hero
Exploring AR Feasibility for Military Remote Vehicle Control
Swansea-based Concept Hero specialises in early-stage concept development and prototyping for remote vehicle operation. Initially focused on revolutionising construction through remote-controlled technologies, the company has since expanded its ambitions to include military applications—where safety, precision, and efficiency are paramount.
Recognising the potential of Augmented Reality (AR) to transform remote operation and situational awareness for soldiers in the field, Concept Hero approached CEMET to explore how this emerging technology could be applied in high-risk environments. Their vision: to empower military personnel with hands-free access to mission-critical information and control of unmanned vehicles using AR interfaces.
The Exploration
Before committing to development, Concept Hero and CEMET undertook a focused research collaboration to assess the feasibility of using AR for remote military vehicle control. Using RC cars as a proof-of-concept platform, the team explored internet connectivity options including 4G/5G, satellite, and local WiFi, and assessed how best to stream data and video securely in real time.
Research also looked at how to track vehicle movement and position accurately, as well as how onboard cameras might provide immersive operator views. In tandem, the team evaluated current AR hardware and software—reviewing tracking, visualisation, and control features such as gesture and voice input—to determine what existing technology could be adapted to military use.
Game Development platform Unity was examined as a possible platform, including how physical peripherals might be integrated to create a more intuitive user experience. The findings from this exploration now form a robust foundation for future development.
From Research to Concept
The outcome of this collaboration was a comprehensive technical feasibility report and a conceptual roadmap outlining how Concept Hero could prototype a line-following robot car controlled via AR headset.
The proposed proof of concept described a compact robotic platform equipped with high-traction wheels, onboard cameras, inertial sensors, and environmental awareness features such as obstacle detection and infrared night vision. Data would be transmitted securely to a local database, with the AR headset providing a live augmented view of the robot's movement—even when out of sight—alongside critical sensor information.
Strategic Impact
The concept has far-reaching implications for military operations. Whether used for reconnaissance in hostile environments, urban combat support, bomb disposal, or disaster relief, the system could reduce human exposure to danger while improving efficiency, coordination, and decision-making on the ground.
The research also helped Concept Hero identify the most significant technical hurdles they would need to overcome, including connectivity reliability, user interface complexity, battery life, and cognitive load management in high-stress scenarios.
Looking Ahead
With a strong research foundation in place and a clearly articulated prototype vision, Concept Hero is now equipped to move toward development, pilot testing, and potentially securing defence-related innovation funding to take the next step.
CEMET is proud to have supported this early-stage investigation and looks forward to seeing how Concept Hero continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in remote vehicle operation.