iRobot introduces multi-UGV tablet control device
iRobot has developed a universal control system for its line of defence and security robots, called the uPoint Multi-Robot Control (MRC) system.
The MRC system runs an Android-based app that standardises the control of any robot within the iRobot family of unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs). The system is built on touchscreen technology, and is designed to simplify UGV operations including driving, manipulation and inspection, allowing operators to focus more on the mission at hand.
Frank Wilson, senior vice president and general manager, defense and security, iRobot, said: ‘Success as a robot operator during high-stress, critical operations depends on precise and reliable control, so the interface needs to be intuitive. We've leveraged decades of experience working with robot operators and held dozens of user focus groups to develop the uPoint MRC system. The uPoint MRC system drives mission effectiveness by decreasing training time and increasing overall ease of use. With uPoint, you point and the robot goes.’
Features include a virtual joystick that allows users to touch and drag anywhere on the main video feed to steer the robot, predictive drive lines that help guide operators through tight spots, and autonomous driving modes including vector drive to hold a desired heading. Data can also be shared from the operator's controller to other team members or remote observers.
The system is compatible with a range of ruggedised and consumer Android-based touch-screen tablets.
More from Uncrewed Vehicles
-
US Navy foresees an uncrewed future for its surface and underwater fleet
The service has been conducting various procurement and development efforts to integrate unmanned surface and underwater vehicles into its inventory.
-
Tekever unveils new swarm-controlling UAS
Tekever has manufactured the AR3, AR4 and AR5 UAS with all systems sharing common electronics and software architecture, which has enabled the reuse of ground segment elements within the new ARX UAS.
-
Ready for the race: Air separation drone swarms vs. air defence systems
As the dynamics of aerial combat rapidly evolve, Chinese scientists have engineered a sophisticated air separation drone model that can fragment into up to six drones, each capable of executing distinct battlefield roles and challenging the efficacy of current anti-drone defences such as the UK’s Dragonfire laser system.
-
Israel’s MALE UAVs ‘must adapt’ to Iranian-made air defences
Advancements in air defence technologies have begun to reshape aerial combat dynamics in the Middle East, as illustrated by recent events involving the Israeli Air Force and Hezbollah.
-
Hundreds more UAS sent to Ukraine forces with thousands more on the way
Both sides of the Russia-Ukraine war have been using UAS for effective low-cost attacks, as well as impactful web and social media footage. Thousands more have now been committed to Ukrainian forces.
-
AI and software companies selected for US Army Robotic Combat Vehicle subsystems
The US Army has intentions to develop light, medium and heavy variants of the Robotic Combat Vehicle (RCV) as part of the branche’s Next Generation Combat Vehicle family.