iRobot introduces multi-UGV tablet control device

9th October 2014 - 16:31 GMT | by The Shephard News Team

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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.

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