Tablet computer-based control system for unmanned ground vehicles introduced by iRobot
BEDFORD, Mass., 31 Oct. 2014. iRobot Corp. in Bedford, Mass., is introducing a tablet computer-based universal control system for iRobot's line of defense and security robots called the uPoint Multi-Robot Control (MRC) system that is designed enable robot operators to increase their proficiency.
The uPoint MRC unmanned control system runs an Android-based app that standardizes the control of any robot within the iRobot family of unmanned vehicles. The uPoint MRC system is designed to simplify robot operations including driving, manipulation, and inspection, and enable operators to focus on their missions.
The uPoint MRC system is compatible with a range of ruggedized and consumer Android-based touchscreen tablets.
"The uPoint MRC system drives mission effectiveness by decreasing training time and increasing overall ease of use," says Frank Wilson, senior vice president and general manager of iRobot's Defense & Security business unit. "With uPoint, you point and the robot goes."
"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 capitalized on decades of experience working with robot operators and held dozens of user focus groups to develop the uPoint MRC system.
The uPoint system includes virtual joystick that enables users to touch and drag to steer the robot; predictive drive lines that help guide operators through tight spots; autonomous driving modes including vector drive to hold a desired heading; manipulation with direct control of the arm on a virtual model; data sharing from the operator's controller to other team members or remote observers; and video recording.
The uPoint MRC system also has the uPoint Robot Radio, which offers communications and smart networking. The uPoint Robot Radio capitalize on frequency agility, power management, and mesh networking. The system will be available next summer.
For more information contact iRobot online at www.irobot.com/upoint.
John Keller | Editor
John Keller is editor-in-chief of Military & Aerospace Electronics magazine, which provides extensive coverage and analysis of enabling electronic and optoelectronic technologies in military, space, and commercial aviation applications. A member of the Military & Aerospace Electronics staff since the magazine's founding in 1989, Mr. Keller took over as chief editor in 1995.