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
-
![AUSA 2024: Quantum-Systems targets big 2025 with UAS developments]()
AUSA 2024: Quantum-Systems targets big 2025 with UAS developments
Quantum-Systems has been upgrading its UAS family, with new versions of the Vector, Reliant and Twister drones set for release throughout 2025.
-
![US Army accelerates acquisition and field of company-level sUAS]()
US Army accelerates acquisition and field of company-level sUAS
The service has been using a Directed Requirement (DR) approach to speed up the deployment of a Medium Range Reconnaissance capability.
-
![AeroVironment to display eVTOL P550 at AUSA 2024]()
AeroVironment to display eVTOL P550 at AUSA 2024
AeroVironment’s portfolio will grow thanks to the eVTOL P550 aimed at battalion-level tactical forces.
-
![Australia’s air force aims its UAV fleet northwards]()
Australia’s air force aims its UAV fleet northwards
The Royal Australian Air Force is advancing its unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) capabilities across three key programmes as it works with the likes of Boeing and Northrop Grumman to reshape Australia’s defence strategy.
-
![FTUAS competitor trials were “very successful”, says US Army official]()
FTUAS competitor trials were “very successful”, says US Army official
Prototypes from Griffon Aerospace and Textron Systems recently passed through MOSA conformance trials and flight tests.
-
![Pentagon adds Replicator 2 to budget request with focus on C-sUAS capabilities]()
Pentagon adds Replicator 2 to budget request with focus on C-sUAS capabilities
Funds for the second phase of this effort will be allocated in the US Department of Defense (DoD) FY2026 budget request.
