Knowledge Base > Technology

Controllers

Commercial Off the Shelf Controllers

It is entirely possible to use commercial off the shelf (COTS) game controllers to control certain aspects of robotic movement. Gaming enthusiasts, many of whom are extremely tech savvy, have often times reverse-engineered or “hacked” existing controllers to determine their communication protocols, voltages, etc. If a robot were designed to use the same protocols, then the data stream from the controller could be used to manipulate motors, actuators, and cameras. All this is not lost on the Department of Defense. The US military has been experimenting using gaming controllers, albeit brought up to military specs, for unmanned flights, remote explosives detonation, weaponry, and other uses.

Custom Industrial Grade Controllers

Custom controllers can be engineered and manufactured to control remote visual inspection equipment. These custom units provide detailed capabilities for the operation of the robotic equipment. Every nuance, from drive direction, speed, wheel clutch, independent wheel rotation, pan-tilt-zoom-focus of onboard camera(s), lighting, telemetry, rollover protection to name just a few can be controlled via specific controls on the custom unit. Custom controllers can be tailored to a specific industry and/or application. For example, a tethered controller may be better suited to an application involving traversing long distances for long periods of time whereas a battery operated unit might fail in the same situation. Custom controllers can also be manufactured to withstand greater environmental stresses present in specific industries. For example, a custom unit can be built to prevent detrimental effects from water splash or submersion. Custom controllers can also be built to withstand harsh chemical environments, or environments with extreme temperature variations.

Related

• Robotic Crawler System Controls
• Remote Visual Inspection
• Unique Applications