Review Display Systems (RDS) outlines the development of a portable Ground Control Station (GCS) designed for a new fleet of Uncrewed Surface Vehicles (USVs). Read more >>
Working in partnership with a defense marine manufacturer, the project focused on delivering a rugged, all-in-one PC platform capable of integrating proprietary safety systems while maintaining dependable performance in demanding operational environments. The result was a fully industrialized hardware GCS that supported rapid development from concept through to scalable production.
The requirement centered on combining multiple complex functions into a single portable unit. The control station needed to house proprietary safety and control systems, incorporate a 21.5-inch Projected Capacitive (PCAP) touchscreen, and support a high-performance Single Board Computer (SBC). In addition, the system was required to manage advanced networking and communications, include IP-rated Human Interface Devices (HID) suitable for harsh marine conditions, and remain lightweight without sacrificing durability. Balancing these factors was critical to meeting strict defense and maritime operational expectations.
To address these demands, the company engineered an all-in-one control station based on the customer’s proof-of-concept platform, upgrading all critical components to ensure long-term reliability in harsh operating conditions. The final design featured intuitive, high visibility control via the integrated touchscreen, supported by a high-performance SBC for mission-critical applications and a robust internal architecture capable of handling complex networking requirements.
IP-rated HID devices ensured reliable operation in marine environments, while carbon fiber construction reduced overall weight and maintained strength. Materials, thermal performance, and mechanical design were carefully addressed to ensure the system met both defense and marine requirements without adding unnecessary size or weight. The compact, portable form factor was optimized for deployment flexibility.
Functional prototypes were delivered in under 12 weeks, supported by an iterative development process that refined the design for manufacturability and scalability. This approach enabled a rapid shift from prototype to production readiness. The completed system allowed the customer to enter the market ahead of competitors in its USV class, contributing to large-volume orders and strengthening its position within the defense marine sector.
