The Sigyn MkI Tactical sUGV is an unmanned ground robot designed for tactical reconnaissance, offering superior scouting capabilities through its ultra-sensitive Day-Night cameras and dimmable IR LEDs. It can be deployed individually or integrated into a larger Sky-Hero robotic tactical recon system, which includes components like the Loki MkII sUAV and Narfi MkI Pole Camera Head, all controlled by the GCS MkII.
Function Description:
The Sigyn MkI is a wheeled robot primarily used for ground reconnaissance. It features two ultra-sensitive Day-Night cameras providing 150-degree views for comprehensive scouting. Dimmable IR LEDs on the front, back, and top of the vehicle enhance video clarity and provide NVG (Night Vision Goggle) lighting, making it suitable for various operational environments. The robot is controlled by the GCS MkII remote controller, which offers an intuitive cyber-secure interface for managing multiple unmanned vehicles, their sensors, and plug-in payloads.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Cameras: Two ultra-sensitive Day-Night cameras with 150-degree views.
- Lighting: Dimmable IR LEDs on the front, back, and top.
- Batteries (Sigyn MkI): Removable, lightweight, rechargeable Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) 18650 batteries.
- Batteries (GCS MkII): Built-in Lithium-Polymer (LiPo) battery.
- Charging Temperature Range (Li-Ion & LiPo): 0°C to 45°C (32°F to 113°F).
- Storage Temperature Range (Li-Ion & LiPo): Ideally 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F).
- Control Signal Frequencies (CE): 868 MHz (25 mW LBT).
- Control Signal Frequencies (FCC): 915 MHz (100 mW).
- Video Signal Frequencies (CE/FCC): 5725 MHz to 5865 MHz (25 mW, 8 channels by default; up to 350 mW, 37 channels in Open Mode).
- GCS MkII Ports:
- Radio input and headphone port (3.5 mm TRRS, CTIA standard).
- Audio/Video out port (3.5 mm line-out, Sony convention).
- Charging USB-C port (24-pin, rotational symmetry).
- Micro SD card slot (supports up to 32 GB, FAT32 format, for firmware updates only).
- Weather Resistance: Not weatherproof. May be lightly splashed but not immersed in liquids. Not recommended for operation in rain, snow, fog, or dusty/sandy environments.
Usage Features:
- Control: Operated via the GCS MkII remote controller using joysticks and buttons.
- Binding: A specific binding protocol is required to synchronize the robot with the GCS MkII, especially when using multiple Sky-Hero tactical vehicles. The binding process involves activating the Sigyn MkI, pressing a binding button on the robot, and selecting "Device Binding" on the GCS MkII.
- Power On/Off: The Sigyn MkI is turned on/off by pressing a central button on its lower frame. The GCS MkII is turned on/off via its central ON/OFF button.
- Basic Driving: The robot's movement (forward, backward, turn left, turn right) is controlled by orienting the right joystick on the GCS MkII. Speed is progressive, increasing with joystick movement.
- Advanced Driving: Automatic clock-wise, counter clock-wise, and 180° rotations can be performed by pushing the left joystick in specific directions.
- Defined Features Activation: Various features can be activated using predefined or self-defined buttons on the GCS MkII.
- Device Selection: Pressing corresponding buttons (1-4) on the GCS MkII connects to linked and activated devices. LED colors indicate connection status (Red: no connection, Orange: established, Green: full control).
- GCS MkII Menu Navigation: The GCS MkII menu is navigated using the right joystick and the D button.
- GCS MkII Sleep Mode: Allows the remote control to enter a low-power sleep mode.
- Overlay Screens: Superimposed screens on the video feed display active settings or button allocations, accessible by pressing the active device button.
- Device Disconnection/Switching: Long-pressing the active device button disconnects it. Pressing other device buttons switches control to another linked vehicle.
- Customizable Buttons: The GCS MkII allows for self-defined button allocations for quick actions, including toggling LEDs, push-to-talk, switching cameras, device sleep, and motor shutdown.
- Video Channel Selection: Users can specify video channels for up to four devices, with options for CE, FCC, and Open Mode frequencies.
- Video Power Adjustment: Video power levels can be adjusted (e.g., 1mW, 25mW, or higher in Open Mode).
- Scrambling Mode: Activates or deactivates video signal scrambling (ON, OFF, INVERT) for enhanced security, though it may affect range.
- Video Brightness: Adjusts the brightness of the video displayed on the GCS MkII screen.
- Headphone Level: Sets the sound level transmitted to connected headphones.
- Joystick Calibration: Essential for accurate control, calibrating joysticks helps compensate for mechanical differences.
- Joystick Dead Zone: Defines the distance the joystick can move from neutral before registering input.
- Motor Shutdown: An emergency stop function that immediately cuts power to all motors. Can be configured for direct or long-press activation.
- Turn Speed & Max Speed: Adjustable parameters for the robot's manual rotation and maximum driving speed.
- LED Brightness: Adjustable intensity for the Sigyn's IR top and front LEDs.
- Stealth Mode: Switches off all internal LEDs of operated devices.
- Observe Device Mode: Allows the GCS MkII to act as a video receiver for other deployed Sky-Hero vehicles.
- Version Information: Displays software versions for the GCS MkII and connected robots.
- Emergency Behaviors:
- Lost Connection: The Sigyn MkI automatically stops if communication with the GCS MkII is lost.
- Low Battery Warning (GCS MkII & Sigyn MkI): Alerts when battery levels drop below 10%, recommending return to operator and battery replacement/recharge.
- Sensors Warning (Motors & IMU): Alerts for problems with motors (robot stops automatically) or the Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) (automatic camera switching may be affected).
Maintenance Features:
- Visual Inspection: Before storage, check for signs of wear, cracks, loose screws, damage to wheels, and dust/dirt on camera lenses and battery bay.
- Cleaning: Use only a clean, dry microfiber cloth for camera lenses and a soft, dry cloth or bristle brush for the body and wheels. Avoid liquids, abrasive cleansers, detergents, chemicals, lubricants, or grease on moving parts.
- Firmware Updates: Regular firmware updates are provided by Sky-Hero to optimize performance. Updates are performed using a Micro SD card inserted into the GCS MkII or Sigyn MkI.
- Battery Care:
- Remove and discharge batteries to 40-65% for storage longer than a week.
- Store batteries separately from the device, away from direct sunlight, ideally around 25°C (77°F).
- Do not store batteries in the charger.
- Avoid contact with other conductive materials.
- Storage Conditions: Store the Sigyn MkI, batteries, GCS MkII, and accessories in a cool, dry, non-magnetic, climate-controlled environment (ideally 20°C to 28°C / 68°F to 82°F) to prevent corrosion, mildew, and damage to electrical components.
- Gearing Back Up: Before resuming operation after storage, perform a visual check, charge batteries fully, update firmware, and conduct a "test drive."
- Battery Calibration: Calibrate the GCS MkII battery during system initialization for accurate remaining battery life estimates.