A group of Canadian technology companies, including InDro Robotics, with support from government agencies, has unveiled the launch of the Drone and Advanced Robotics Testing and Training Zone (DARTT). Positioned as Canada's premier center for trials of drones, automated ground vehicles, and various robotic crafts, DARTT is situated within Ottawa's Area X.O, a dedicated facility for the research, development, and testing of cutting-edge smart mobility, autonomy, and connectivity technologies. The opening of DARTT marks a significant milestone in Canada's testing and training capabilities for emerging robotic technologies.
DARTT, which was conceived as a mobility tech support initiative in February, provides a vital resource for sector companies to conduct extensive testing and refinement of new drones, unmanned ground vehicles, and robotic systems. The facility also offers comprehensive training courses to enhance users' skills and expertise, incorporating precise parcourses for practical skill development.
Notably, DARTT is the first demonstration site in Canada to integrate the criteria of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) into its operations. The training programs provided at the facility cater to a range of proficiency levels, from basic to intermediate, up to the advanced skills required by emergency response and other public service pilots.
The collaboration between InDro Robotics and Area X.O brings together InDro's extensive experience in drone and robotic training with the challenging aerial test routes available within the expanded Area X.O zone. This synergy represents a significant advancement in the sophistication and diversity of Canada's testing and training assets, enabling InDro and its partners to offer clients state-of-the-art facilities.
Philip Reece, CEO of InDro Robotics, expressed his pride in the company's role as an industry partner in the DARTT Zone at Area X.O, stating,
"This project builds on our long-standing collaboration with Area X.O and Invest Ottawa. We have located our primary R&D hub at this complex because of the capabilities it provides. Now through the DARTT Zone, we will work together to provide firms with evidence-based testing and training that meets demanding NIST criteria. This is a significant competitive advantage and a cutting-edge addition to Area X.O."
The newly established DARTT facilities at Area X.O offer users:
- A dedicated area for robotic testing featuring diverse surfaces such as gravel, sand, and water, along with ramps, sidewalks, stairs, and other obstacles in compliance with NIST standards. This environment presents a challenging setting for testing ground robots and their operators.
- A designated area for drone operations that includes a large netted enclosure for the safe testing of drone failure scenarios. Additionally, a precision course aligned with NIST criteria is available to enhance advanced drone piloting skills.
- A comprehensive training area where users can receive instruction at different levels, ranging from basic to intermediate, including certification for Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems. InDro Robotics will provide all training, leveraging its extensive experience and adhering to Canadian Aviation Regulations and Transport Canada guidelines. Specialized courses and micro-credentials will be offered in the future to further enhance professional development opportunities.
The establishment of DARTT within Area X.O signifies a significant stride in advancing Canada's capabilities in the field of robotics, fostering innovation, and equipping industry professionals with the necessary skills to thrive in this evolving landscape.
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