Althen Sensors & Controls supplies rugged joystick technology for Australia’s Mozzie UAS


Althen Sensors & Controls is supplying the joystick technology used to control Australia’s Mozzie Unmanned Aerial System (UAS). Grabba Technologies integrated two rugged TSD mini joysticks into its MissionHub Ground Control Station (GCS), creating a control interface designed for precise operation and reliable performance in demanding environments.
The Mozzie UAS was developed by Grabba Technologies for challenging industrial and defence operations. Its Ground Control Station required a control solution capable of providing accurate and responsive input for complex flight operations while operating reliably under harsh and unpredictable conditions. At the same time, the joysticks needed to integrate efficiently into the existing control system. Standard consumer-grade controls were not suitable for these requirements.
Contactless Hall effect technology for precise control
Althen Sensors & Controls supplied specially configured TSD joysticks in a dual-joystick arrangement. The compact two-axis joysticks use contactless Hall effect sensor technology and provide a 0–5 V analogue output signal. As the joystick position is detected without contact, there is no mechanical wear on the sensing element.
The joysticks also feature automatic spring return and an IP67 protection rating, making them particularly suitable for applications where reliable operation is required in demanding environments.
For integration into the MissionHub Ground Control Station, the joysticks were configured with custom cabling and a compact JST connector. This simplifies installation and helps reduce engineering and assembly effort within the control system.
Dual joysticks enable intuitive flight manoeuvres
The MissionHub Ground Control Station uses a standard dual-joystick control layout. The left joystick controls throttle or altitude as well as yaw, while the right joystick controls pitch and roll.
This configuration enables operators to perform multiple control inputs simultaneously and with a high degree of precision. It supports stable flight control, FPV navigation and complex manoeuvres in dynamic operating environments.
The combination of contactless Hall effect sensing, automatic centring and analogue output provides responsive and precise control. The modular design of the TSD mini joystick also enables the control interface to be adapted to specific operational requirements.
Rugged control solution for mission-critical applications
Reliability, precision and performance in real-world conditions were key priorities in the development of the Mozzie UAS. The rugged TSD joysticks from Althen Sensors & Controls integrate easily into the MissionHub Ground Control Station and provide precise, operator-friendly control.
The Mozzie UAS is offered by Keelback, part of the Grabba Technologies Group. Its unmanned aerial systems are manufactured in Queensland, Australia, and designed for defence, law enforcement and demanding industrial applications.
About Althen Sensors & Controls
Althen Sensors & Controls has provided advanced and customised sensor and measurement solutions since 1978. Its portfolio includes standard and customised solutions and systems for Test & Measurement, OEM and industrial applications. Customers benefit from technical expertise and support in selecting, adapting and integrating solutions for their specific applications.
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