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Clearpath Jackal

Clearpath Jackal
Clearpath Jackal
Status: Active

Superusers

  • Ivan Penskiy (ipenskiy@umd.edu)

Overview

The Clearpath Jackal is a small unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) intended for field robotics research and development. It has a skid-steer aluminum chassis, weighs approximately 17 kg, and supports payloads up to 20 kg. The platform includes an onboard computer, GPS, IMU, and wireless connectivity, with software based on the Robot Operating System (ROS). Jackal is powered by a battery providing up to 4 hours of operation and reaches speeds up to 2 m/s. It includes standard power outputs (5V, 12V, 24V) and mounting options for sensors such as LiDAR and cameras. The vehicle is rated IP62 for dust and water resistance and is designed to operate in a range of outdoor conditions.

Location

E.A. Fernandez IDEA Factory (Bldg. 228), room 3119.

Physical specifications

Dimensions 508 x 430 x 250 mm (20 x 17 x 10 in)
Weight 17 kg (37 lbs)
Payload (max) 20 kg (44 lbs)
Speed (max) 2.0 m/s (6.6 ft/s)
Ground clearance 65 mm (2.5 in)
Climb grade 45°
Battery 26 V, 11.6 Ah (lithium-ion)

Important documents and useful links

Reservation

Jackal UGV must be reserved before using. The reservation is done using the Google calendar (TBD). Users will be able to reserve the equipment personally after attending the RAL lab orientation and then getting trained on the equipment.

TBD

Video demonstration

The following videos demonstrate capabilities and the some aspects of operating the Jackal UGV:
Note: these are promotional and instructional videos. They are included for demonstrational purposes only. The details of actual operational procedures in the RAL lab can differ.

Important reminders

  • Maintain a safe distance of at least 5 m from the robot whenever possible.
  • Never assume that the robot can be reliably stopped on command.
  • Always be vigilant around the robot, even when a stop is asserted.

TBD

Shutting down procedures

  • Stop the ROS communication with the robot.
  • Turn OFF Jackal by pressing (single short press) the system power button on the HMI panel of the robot.

Gaining access to equipment

Contact the lab manager (ipenskiy@umd.edu).

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