RCW
software was developed as the front end for the operator to use to control the
remote vehicle. This is an extremely demanding application and it is essential
to provide the operator with an intuitive, easy to use interface which allows
them to control the vehicle and to view status and sensor data from the vehicle.
Communication with the SPECTRE autopilot on the remote vehicle sending commands to the autopilot and receiving data back from the autopilot. RCW displays the data on a user designed instrument console and on the wireframe vehicle view.
Mission data in the form of waypoints, etc., can be entered, viewed and uploaded and downloaded.
All parameters can be logged to a text file or to a Matlab file for mission post-processing.
The instrument console includes:
- Sensor
data displays, including:
- depth,
- compass tape or rose,
- analogue, digital and LED.
- Autopilot mode buttons:
- Select Heading control, attitude control, etc.,
- Ancillary systems control and monitor, e.g. Ignition start/stop
The
view display shows a wire frame vehicle, updated with the vehicle's position and
attitude (if the data is available). In addition, waypoints and tracks may be
entered, edited and displayed.
The communications button changes colour to warn the operator if the communications link has failed. In a similar way, the sensor data is blanked when it becomes too old. This quickly informs the operator of problems so that the operator does not make decisions based on erroneous data.
The console can be designed and developed during simulation trials by the operator to ensure that the required data is displayed. During trials, the console edition mode can be disabled so that no unwanted changes are made to the display. In addition, a 4 level security system is employed which prevents unwanted access to options such as console editing.
See details on the Spectre
Processor Board which provides 3D control for an underwater vehicle and is
capable of communicating with RCW.
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