Simpulse has showcased the capabilities of its SL200 software-defined radio (SDR) system, which significantly enhances the operational range of unmanned ground vehicles (ugvs) in real-world scenarios. In a recent collaboration with INTRA Group, a specialized emergency response organization that deploys robotic systems for nuclear incident management, the SL200 successfully maintained video transmission across an area four times larger than its standard range.
The long-range radio communications developed by Simpulse for drones and robotic applications can transmit high-definition video over distances exceeding 80 kilometers in a Line-of-Sight (LOS) configuration, utilizing merely 600 mW of power. INTRA Group’s remotely controlled robots rely on these radio links for both video streaming and command/control communications.
One of the significant challenges with conventional digital radio systems is the risk of losing control of the robot onc it surpasses the designated transmission range. Simpulse addresses this issue by mimicking the behavior of analog systems, avoiding sudden disconnections. When a vehicle moves beyond the standard transmission zone, a more resilient, lower data-rate radio link is activated. This allows for the continued transmission of video at a reduced resolution,enabling operators too maintain mission control. Consequently, the operational range can be effectively quadrupled.
Even when video transmission is no longer feasible, a robust, low-data-rate link remains active, facilitating the transmission of GPS coordinates and vehicle command/control signals. This functionality allows operators to navigate the vehicle back into the primary coverage area safely.
An engineer from INTRA group remarked, “The outcomes of this test open up possibilities for establishing very long-distance video links with a highly reliable transmission system. This is a pivotal advancement for our organization.”
Emmanuel hamman, the CEO of Simpulse, stated, “The expertise of INTRA Group in robotics has been instrumental in demonstrating the exceptional reliability of our radio link under challenging conditions, allowing us to tailor our technology to meet these specific demands.”
