iRobot rolls out Android powered multi-robot tablet controller

iRobot has launched its new uPoint multi-robot control (MRC) system, which is claimed to be an universal control system for operating its unmanned ground vehicles used by first responders, defence forces and industrial customers.

Integrating an Android app, the new multi-robot control (MRC) system is aimed at simplifying operating the company’s family of unmanned vehicles, including driving, manipulation and inspection, and beef up operators’ focus on the mission at hand.

iRobot Defense & Security business unit senior vice-president and general manager Frank Wilson said: "Success as a robot operator during high-stress, critical operations depends on precise and reliable control, so the interface needs to be intuitive.

"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."

Currently compatible with a range of ruggedised and consumer Android-based touchscreen tablets, the system’s accessible interface lays robot controls at fingertips.

Features of the new system include a virtual joystick; predictive drive lines; autonomous driving modes; simplified manipulation with direct control of the arm; data sharing; easy swapping between different robots; video recording; and cloud storage capability.

The system’s integrated uPoint Robot Radio provides enhanced communications and smart networking by leveraging frequency agility, power management, and mesh networking.

The radio enables robots to travel deeper into complex entities, while offering more downrange compared to earlier possible range.

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Image: iRobot’s Android powered multi-robot tablet controller. Photo: courtesy of iRobot Corporation.