WASHINGTON, Aug. 10 -- (AUVSI, Booth 1209) - Highly advanced manipulation and visualization technologies from Harris Corporation (NYSE:HRS) may some day eliminate the need for soldiers and first responders to put themselves in harm's way when dealing with explosives, such as Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), by enabling them to "see" and "feel" an object in real-world detail -- as if they are in contact with it -- via unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs).

Harris, an international communications and information technology company, is demonstrating a prototype of the next-generation, haptic - or touch-based - teleoperation technology during the AUVSI Unmanned Systems North America 2009 conference this week at the Washington, DC Convention Center. The demo system uses sensors embedded in robotic manipulators, and proprietary algorithms, to provide high-fidelity force feedback to the operator.

Designed for use with a wide variety of UGVs, the new Harris manipulation and 3D visualization technology delivers the enhanced situational awareness that is required to identify and neutralize threats such as IEDs. It also could provide critical, life-saving situational awareness during public safety emergencies and disaster responses.

"Until today, 2D camera views and simplistic manipulation control have limited the dexterity that is critical to handling explosive ordnance," said Wes Covell, president, Harris Defense Programs. "When you are defusing explosives remotely, you need sufficient visual and tactile feedback that gives you the confidence that you have 'touched' the wires. You want to fully understand the nature of the object and 'see' it. Harris manipulation technology and 3D visualization give soldiers a more immersive understanding of what they are dealing with. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that one day no one will ever have to walk up to an explosive device in order to neutralize it."

Harris provides geospatial visualization technology and models to business, government and Military customers. The company also offers a range of technical solutions and services for the Unmanned Systems market, including voice, data and Video communications; intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) sensors; and payload integration and support. Harris is currently working with the leading UxV platform providers.

Harris Defense Programs develops, supplies, and integrates communications and information processing products, systems, and networks for a diverse base of aerospace, terrestrial and maritime applications supporting U.S. Department of Defense missions. Harris is committed to delivering leading-edge technologies that support the military's ongoing transformation to network-centric communications.

About Harris Corporation

Harris is an international communications and information technology company serving government and commercial markets in more than 150 countries. Headquartered in Melbourne, Florida, the company has approximately $5 billion of annual revenue and 15,000 employees -- including nearly 7,000 engineers and scientists. Harris is dedicated to developing best-in-class assured communications products, systems, and services. Additional information about Harris Corporation is available at www.harris.com