Managing multiple autonomous vehicles usually requires multiple remote controllers. In response, the Mach Remote has been developed to provide an all-inclusive base station, user interface and an integrated hand held remote command and control device with combined E-stop and multi-machine capabilities.
Mach Remote provides an all-inclusive base station, user interface and an integrated hand held remote command and control device with combined E-stop and multi-machine capabilities.
“We decided to create our own integrated hand held remote command and control device as we couldn’t find anything on the market that was rugged and affordable with a decent tablet-like display with the required E-Stop functionality needed for autonomous operations,” says Rhett Schildroth CTO for Mach. “Most of the hardware we develop is because we cannot find an off-the-shelf solution that meets the unique requirements of off-road autonomy.”
The new integrated hand held remote command and control is most notable for its ruggedized features, ease of use, and accelerometer for drop detection and inactivity, which differentiate it from a standard remote controller currently available on the market. The 8-inch touchscreen display gives users a more friendly experience, and the joystick and button inputs can be customized to an OEM’s unique requirements.
“We’ve spent a lot of time developing a user interface that’s focused on getting a job done safely and easily,” Schildroth explains.
Safety is a top priority and with the enhanced built-in E-Stop button, users can feel more comfortable knowing there are multiple modes of redundancy intact. The remote also allows a worker’s location to be tracked via cell phone or GPS in case of an emergency.
Seamless integration with the new Mach Nexus 900Mhz M2M mesh network, Wi-Fi and LTE connectivity allows operators the ability to monitor and control any vehicle on the job site without the need for cumbersome base station infrastructure.
“We realized that with the new Mach Nexus M2M mesh network being compatible with the Mach Remote, it would further the usefulness for our OEM partners,” Schildroth notes.
