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The focus of researchers in this domain is to develop and apply technology to meet the unique requirement of South African special operations organisations. The activities cover research, design, development, manufacturing, testing, simulation, operational support and professional services. The group has strategic relations with South African special operations organisations and focuses on land, air and maritime applications.
Selecting the right battery
Research is being conducted into various battery types or chemistries (lead-acid, nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal-hydride, lithium-ion, lithium-polymer and rechargeable-alkaline-manganese) to determine the strengths and weaknesses of these portable power sources under various conditions.
The everyday use of electronic equipment continues to grow, and with it the associated reliance on portable power, or batteries. Batteries can be primary (non-rechargeable) or secondary (rechargeable), with the choice determined by the equipment application. CSIR research is focused on understanding high/low power, short/long storage, and low/high temperature applications of batteries. When this is combined with the volume, weight, cost, recharge duration, life cycle, safety and memory effect, it allows for selection guidelines to be generated. These guidelines are being developed and will be used to improve and ensure better usage of current and new battery systems.
CSIR secures top award for portable landing light system
A CSIR-developed portable landing light received an award at the International Soldier Technology 2006 Forum in the category Best Operational Assessment for new Equipment (one of six categories). The equipment was designed and developed for peace-keeping forces that have to go into areas by air at night or in poor light. The lights are unique in that they are remote controlled. The system consists of 12 lights, each fitted with a transmitter/receiver with a remote control effective up to 600 m. During the development of the system, the soldiers' needs were assessed, evaluated and met in three phases through incremental upgrades. The system has been evaluated, declared effective produced and used by the SANDF. The primary users have ordered the system and numerous other potential users have expressed an interest.
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