Aarcomm Systems is known for innovative industrial remote control devices that can withstand harsh elements and rough handling. Their waste management client needed a device with technology that elevated them above their low-cost competition and avoid costly regulatory risks.
The device needed to operate multiple heavy, hydraulic machines and read advanced logistical sensors. It also needed to hold a charge for days and work in both direct sunlight as well as total darkness. They struggled to find the right display (typically the most power-hungry element) that was durable and used less power. They even tried to make something themselves—then they discovered Azumo.
Device Criteria
- Stand out from the competition with superior tech
- Extremely durable
- Fully waterproof
- Work multiple pieces of heavy equipment
- Read multiple sensors
- Completely digital interface (no buttons, adhesives or thumbsticks)
- Low power for longer shifts
- Readable in direct sunlight and darkness
The Barriers
Aarcomm knew they needed to address a few big concerns. Their remote needed to work in all conditions: cold, hot, light, dark, wet, dry, you name it. This meant the device needed fewer parts, and it had to continuously pass routine safety inspections that changed state by state.
Aarcomm designed the device with workers and worksite conditions in mind, avoiding analog parts like joysticks or buttons. Regulatory bodies that review worksite safety will often shut a site down if there’s a label that has worn off of a button or there’s any damage to a joystick. Their designers knew they had to create a device that worked through everything: rough handling, Chicago winters (and summers) along with stringent and non-uniform safety inspections.
The device needed to be flexible and work multiple pieces of equipment in one unit. So they opted for an adaptable digital screen instead of physical labels. The only problem? They’re a power suck.
Initially, Aarcomm designed the Trident with a backlit LCD, but the team quickly found the inherent problem with regular LCD screens; they were difficult to use in low-light areas which is where the Trident-controlled machines were often used. The LEDs they rigged up to help with visibility made the device unintuitive, unwieldy, and power hungry. For a device that needs to work for equipment running around the clock, power is a huge concern.
The Solution
Aarcomm sought out a new display technology and quickly discovered the Azumo display module.
Azumo’s frontlit reflective display modules offer some essential key benefits that Aarcomm needed for the Trident.
- Minimal power draw — Azumo cut down on power draw drastically. With the new battery savings, the Trident has a 125-hour battery life.
- Sunlight readability — Users didn’t have to struggle to read in bright outdoor settings and the Azumo display module light, powered by a single LED, meant it was visible in low light conditions.
- Space savings — The thin display stack took up less space than the backlit LCD, allowing for more ruggedized parts and protection, and a slimmer profile.
- Ease of use — The Trident is programmable, and adaptable, thanks to the dual displays that work in all lighting conditions.
Aarcomm’s Trident Radio Remote Controls in action.
Thanks in part to the Azumo display, the Trident is relatively simple and easy to use. Aarcomm is already working to include more components in the device since LCD 2.0 allows more interior room. With collaboration, Azumo and Aarcomm have made a durable device even stronger and more rugged.
