How mobile technology is changing heavy equipment operations
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Challenge
Supporting complex machine setup in demanding field environments
Steelwrist needed a mobile application that would enable technicians and operators to configure and monitor excavator attachment systems, including tiltrotators and quick couplers, from a smartphone. The previous process relied on manual, on-site configuration methods that were time-consuming and difficult to manage across different operators and machine setups.
The project required close coordination across multiple partners. Steelwrist’s embedded hardware platform was being actively developed in parallel by their partner SVAB, meaning the QuantumConnect app evolved hand in hand with the underlying system it was built for. This demanded a flexible, agile approach and strong risk management to keep development moving forward at every sprint.
The goals of the QuantumConnect project for Steelwrist AB were:
- Replace manual configuration workflows with a streamlined, app-based solution.
- Enable technicians to set up and support machines remotely without being physically present.
- Allow operators to personalize machine settings for different types of work.
- Ensure the safe usage of heavy attachments through real-time status monitoring.
- Deliver a reliable, field-ready tool that works consistently on both iOS and Android.
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Solution
Key strategies for a field-ready, hardware-integrated mobile experience
The engagement began with product discovery workshops to define the project’s scope amid uncertainty. These workshops mapped out the project’s full scope, defined feature priorities, and planned development in phases that accounted for dependency on SVAB’s evolving hardware platform. We conducted UX research to understand the day-to-day realities of technicians and operators in the field.
We chose Flutter for its cross-platform capabilities, enabling us to build a single codebase that delivers a consistent experience on both iOS and Android, thereby reducing development time and cost while covering the full user base.
Clean architecture for a complex, hardware-connected product
The app follows clean architecture principles, with clearly separated presentation, domain, and data layers. Business logic is driven by use cases, and dependency injection keeps features modular and testable. This structure was essential given the breadth of functionality: Bluetooth machine pairing, live signal monitoring, remote support sessions, configuration templates, and joystick mapping.
For technicians:
- Bluetooth pairing to nearby machines with a single tap
- Manual setup of machine function parameters
- Template downloads to configure machines in just a few clicks
- Remote support sessions via generated access codes
- Locksense safety monitoring for quick-coupler status
For operators:
- Personalized machine profiles saved for different types of work
- Joystick button mapping based on individual preferences
- Tiltrotator sensitivity adjustment
- Real-time signal monitoring for full system visibility
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Results
A reliable tool built to succeed in a complex, fast-moving environment
Development was ongoing from March to November, with each sprint adding incremental value to users. The team’s agile approach and proactive risk management kept the project moving forward smoothly, even as the underlying hardware platform evolved. The client specifically highlighted the team’s adaptability and ability to stay on track as key strengths of the engagement.
Thanks to Droids On Roids, Steelwrist now has a mobile app that successfully connects to its embedded platform. The team managed the project professionally, supporting a fast-paced development process and delivering a product that the client considers a clear success.
