Society of Robots - Robot Forum

General Misc => Misc => Topic started by: Admin on November 21, 2010, 11:07:00 AM

Title: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on November 21, 2010, 11:07:00 AM
After 11 months of hard work, my secret revolutionary product finally works muahahahahahaha!

One more prototype needed to optimize it, then I'll release details. Probably early January. Sale date expected to be early April.

And yes, you'll want it. Probably several, actually :P


(I guess I'm just very excited, and hoping you would be too, lol)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: voyager2 on November 22, 2010, 06:11:17 AM
Axon III or flying Axon? Or an Axon to JTAG interface board(that seemed popular a while ago)
The suspense is killin' me
 
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: blackietje on December 01, 2010, 10:11:47 AM
we want more axon on the floor
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Soeren on December 01, 2010, 11:28:00 AM
Hi,

And yes, you'll want it. Probably several, actually :P
From that statement, I'd guess you just brewed a killer Whiskey ;D
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Crunchy Theory on December 01, 2010, 03:12:00 PM
It's ERP in production form!  ;D
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on December 30, 2010, 06:42:15 PM
I finally worked out the last bug in my product, and it works great! :)

I'm going to run a few more optimization tests and make one more prototype to validate manufacture, but this basically means I'll start manufacturing in about a month. And that'll be when I announce what the heck my product actually is :P
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: madsci1016 on December 30, 2010, 08:36:31 PM
when I announce what the heck my product actually is :P

I already know!!! Muhahahaha!!

Sorry John, I couldn't resist anymore!!
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: monsieurpo on January 01, 2011, 03:56:45 PM
can we have a picture or a clue?
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on January 01, 2011, 03:58:50 PM
can we have a picture or a clue?
nope :P

but I can't imagine anyone not wanting one . . .

Anyway, I finished the optimization tests today. So I just need to verify one more manufacture-ready prototype . . .
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: monsieurpo on January 01, 2011, 04:34:46 PM
if you need someone to test it I'm here   ;)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: TrickyNekro on January 01, 2011, 08:01:07 PM
Now who thinks admin is a top spoilsport guy.... :P

Not a single eagle photo? Man, you're cheating.... :/


BTW Happy new year lads ;-)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: mallster on January 02, 2011, 03:37:49 AM
How much are these thing going to cost us?  :-*

Do we need to start saving now....
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: z.s.tar.gz on January 02, 2011, 09:05:47 PM
microsd? microsd!
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: macdad- on January 03, 2011, 08:08:11 AM
Neural Interface for the Axon?  :D
Anti-Mass Spectrometer with I2C output?  ;)
Self-Wiring Microcontroller for all your AI needs?  ;D

What is the device, man, your driving us all nuts!?!?
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Asellith on January 04, 2011, 03:20:57 PM
Hmm here's a forum throw back but my Bet is a small cheap biped design. That was a while ago so I might be off but Admin has been quite about it after the initial slip. Had something to do with mech warfare in the original post.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: madsci1016 on January 04, 2011, 03:34:28 PM
AWWW!!! At the risk of getting my account muted I have to say it (the suspense is killing me!!!):  All wrong!!!

I did correctly guess what it was by some hints around here and other places. And now I 'm not going to say anything else or Admin will really get mad at me.

(sits back to watch major SOR scavenger hunt)

Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: hopslink on January 04, 2011, 03:42:47 PM
My guess is waterproof servos. 
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on January 04, 2011, 04:17:55 PM
madsci1016, I seem to notice your helpful rating dropping occasionally  ;) :P ::)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: madsci1016 on January 04, 2011, 05:30:16 PM
madsci1016, I seem to notice your helpful rating dropping occasionally  ;) :P ::)

NOOOOooooo!!!!!!  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: TrickyNekro on January 04, 2011, 07:09:08 PM
Well... In some of your youtube videos you have a eagle schematic somewhere suggesting a
flying variation of axon...

Jon... Why not being a nice guy and turn this into a treasure hunt... "for the name/type of the "new product" of course"
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: voyager2 on January 04, 2011, 07:59:15 PM
An Axon blimp kit?

madsci1016, I seem to notice your helpful rating dropping occasionally  ;) :P ::)
Hehe...
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: madsci1016 on January 04, 2011, 08:03:01 PM
An Axon blimp kit?

No need,

http://diydrones.com/profiles/blog/show?id=705844%3ABlogPost%3A44817 (http://diydrones.com/profiles/blog/show?id=705844%3ABlogPost%3A44817)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Oller125 on January 05, 2011, 10:25:25 AM
Some sort of axon controlled UAV using GPS? ???
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: blackbeard on January 05, 2011, 12:10:45 PM
i found your promotional video

Doctor Who: The Next Doctor - Monster File: The Cybermen (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NejmRupa54I&feature=related#ws)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: madsci1016 on January 05, 2011, 12:28:23 PM
Nice, and I just watched the new Christmas Special last night too. I still think David was better.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: knossos on January 06, 2011, 08:17:21 AM
I have a general idea what Admin's been working on, and if I guess right I will want several for my project. :)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: z.s.tar.gz on January 06, 2011, 11:31:56 AM
A make-your-own axon kit?
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Crunchy Theory on January 06, 2011, 11:55:32 AM
An all-in-one wireless breakout board/axon accessory? That'd be pretty cool... thought had something to do with those edge SMA connectors...  ???
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: garrettg84 on January 06, 2011, 12:05:42 PM
inflatable monkey?






j/k

I'd like to see a nice relatively cheaper wireless breakout board as mentioned by Crunchy Theory.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: monsieurpo on January 19, 2011, 07:14:40 PM
AAAA i cant wait any more!can you give us a release date?? ::)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on January 19, 2011, 07:16:30 PM
Arg, I found two big flaws in the last design that somehow managed to pass detection in every single prototype I made. Another 2 weeks and more money behind, doh!
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: AtomHex on January 19, 2011, 07:26:36 PM
I know what is is.......

  I know what it is...............

    It's a curiosity generator ;D
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: voyager2 on January 19, 2011, 11:03:42 PM
I know what it is!

Its a money tree, or a golden goose, same thing
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: z.s.tar.gz on February 04, 2011, 10:11:55 AM
I know what it is! It's expensive!
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Ryltar on February 04, 2011, 12:29:07 PM
It's a cylon!
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: paulstreats on February 04, 2011, 04:18:00 PM
Does the person who guesses correctly get a free one? ;)

my guess is Waterproof Servo
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: AtomHex on February 05, 2011, 02:15:56 PM
 One thing for sure..................................I'm getting older ;D
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: blackbeard on February 07, 2011, 06:56:59 AM
my guess is a robotic girlfriend.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on February 07, 2011, 07:57:19 AM
my guess is a robotic girlfriend.
Not even admin has the skill to make something so complex that it defies all logic. :P
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: TrickyNekro on February 07, 2011, 08:06:04 AM
my guess is a robotic girlfriend.
Not even admin has the skill to make something so complex that it defies all logic. :P

Hahahaha! Point taken... So you were really thinking about it....
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Killerwolfbot on February 15, 2011, 07:54:45 PM
Can you give  us a price so we know how much to save up?
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on February 15, 2011, 07:58:06 PM
I'm *very* close to sending out the order to manufacturer it. But the price isn't set yet until I know the exact manufacturing cost.

Probably ~$70 for one, ~$130 for two.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Killerwolfbot on February 15, 2011, 08:41:56 PM
Cool. I can't wait to see what it could be. Maybe a robot kit? Or a complete robot brain? I'm so excited.  :D
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on February 18, 2011, 06:15:00 PM
I need to do yet another prototype . . . prototype #6!

It had this strange static electricity issue I've never seen before . . . but I think I just solved it today.

So that basically means another 2+ weeks delay . . . doh!
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Ro-Bot-X on February 18, 2011, 08:49:33 PM
It's a scanning laser distance sensor.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: sparta98 on February 20, 2011, 01:11:59 PM
It's a robotic beer hat!
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Asellith on February 21, 2011, 07:28:11 AM
Positronic Brain?
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Canabots on February 21, 2011, 07:39:04 AM
Positronic Brain?

That would be awesome!

I'm going to guess a sensor (an affordable camera wold be really cool!) or a more kit-like product.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: sparta98 on February 21, 2011, 07:40:13 AM
"You'll catch me, I'll catch you. No love can cut our knife in two."

or

"YOU ARE EXPERIENCING A CAR ACCIDENT!" "The HELL I am!"

I liked the books better. Robotic Visions was the best.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: TrickyNekro on February 21, 2011, 10:46:45 AM
According to what Admin said so far it's a failtron....  :-*
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Killerwolfbot on February 22, 2011, 03:59:51 PM
Speech processor?
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on March 11, 2011, 05:12:33 PM
Good news!

I've been playing around with the latest prototype for a week now and no new bugs have been discovered. I'll play around with it one more week to be absolutely sure it's perfect . . .

As soon as it's finalized, I'll give you guys some good hints :P
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: garrettg84 on March 11, 2011, 06:29:22 PM
Need any additional beta/release candidate testers???? =)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: dellagd on March 11, 2011, 07:56:28 PM
I know what is is.......

  I know what it is...............

    It's a curiosity generator ;D

That sounds like something I would do :P
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: monsieurpo on March 21, 2011, 05:42:12 PM
So...what's new?   ???
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: blackbeard on March 21, 2011, 06:36:41 PM
Good news!

I've been playing around with the latest prototype for a week now and no new bugs have been discovered. I'll play around with it one more week to be absolutely sure it's perfect . . .

As soon as it's finalized, I'll give you guys some good hints :P

this youtube sums up what i was thinking when i read the first line of your post

Good News Everyone! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1D1cap6yETA#)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: raptorwes on March 29, 2011, 08:44:34 PM
is it perfect yet ...........?
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on March 29, 2011, 09:17:52 PM
Bad news . . . found another somewhat major bug today . . . requires a single trace to fix though!

I've been doing heavy testing on the design lately.

So another ~3 weeks . . .
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Gertlex on April 15, 2011, 08:38:35 AM
*pokes thread*

Still quite curious :)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on April 16, 2011, 07:37:01 AM
I'm still working on it . . .
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: DUKELancelot on April 16, 2011, 09:18:18 AM
I'm guessing some sort of wireless communication device?... ::) (ftp://::))
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on April 24, 2011, 09:28:21 AM
Assuming I've run out of dumb mistakes with my prototypes, I'll announce the product in 4 weeks. The release date will be 2 months after that (the time it takes to manufacture).
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on May 08, 2011, 09:55:04 PM
Good news - it's finished! I've started all the purchases and getting quotes from manufacturers.

But the documentation needs some effort, so you'll have to wait another week to find out what it is :P

clue: it's a combination of some of the things mentioned/guessed in this thread ;D

Best case, it ships out in 3 months . . . but knowing my luck with manufacturers who knows . . . :-X
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: TrickyNekro on May 09, 2011, 04:20:04 AM
I guess it's a sensor then... Best guess..

A camera CMOS sensor...

And a second guess through some vid of yours.

A "flying" Axon variant for UAVs.


If I guessed right? Do I win something???  :P
Eh, Beloved Admin??  :-* :-*
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: knossos on May 09, 2011, 06:52:14 AM
My guess is a microcontroller with built in wireless comm: think axon + xbee.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on May 09, 2011, 07:32:28 AM
A "flying" Axon variant for UAVs.
That was actually my failed product idea back in 2009. I spent like ~4 months working hard on it, then canceled the project because I predicted (correctly) too much competition in the market. So I made the Axon II instead ;D
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Gertlex on May 09, 2011, 10:48:49 AM
Will you be giving Webbot the necessary info/prototypes to have webbotlib support on release? *winkwinknudgenudge*
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on May 09, 2011, 01:12:09 PM
Will you be giving Webbot the necessary info/prototypes to have webbotlib support on release? *winkwinknudgenudge*
Waaaaayyyy ahead of you on that one :P
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Gertlex on May 09, 2011, 08:20:00 PM
If you want a solidworks model ahead of time, let me know ;D
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: TrickyNekro on May 10, 2011, 04:41:40 AM
Hell, whatever it may is, just say... We've been waiting too long...

And apart from that, it's an Admin product... Is that the best part of it?
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Aberg098 on May 10, 2011, 07:35:23 AM
All this hype... I'm betting Admin is releasing the next Ipad competitor...
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: garrettg84 on May 10, 2011, 07:57:02 AM
All this hype... I'm betting Admin is releasing the next Ipad competitor...

Even if it is the next 'bad' iPad competitor, I'd fall in line and support the cause =)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Asellith on May 10, 2011, 09:57:43 AM
Will you be giving Webbot the necessary info/prototypes to have webbotlib support on release? *winkwinknudgenudge*
Waaaaayyyy ahead of you on that one :P

So what your saying is we need to put the screws to webbot to find out what the product is...
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: garrettg84 on May 10, 2011, 10:00:42 AM
So what your saying is we need to put the screws to webbot to find out what the product is...

or check out the source tree...
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: madsci1016 on May 10, 2011, 11:07:00 AM
There are clues in various places as to what it is. I found them all and put them together a few months back. I also happened to be in DC at the time, so I was able confirm my suspicion I saw Admin in person. 
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Asellith on May 10, 2011, 12:40:13 PM
I saw Admin in person. 

So he does exist. I thought he wired his brain into the ERP and connected it to the SOR server farm.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: madsci1016 on May 10, 2011, 01:20:17 PM
So he does exist. I thought he wired his brain into the ERP and connected it to the SOR server farm.

Well, I didn't say otherwise.  ;)

Or, I guess I did. O well.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on May 11, 2011, 03:21:35 PM
Bad news everyone . . . found a big mistake and will need to prototype yet another :'(

(not a joke)

2 more weeks delay . . . but I'll still probably publicly announce it in one week . . .
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Webbot on May 11, 2011, 04:04:49 PM
Will you be giving Webbot the necessary info/prototypes to have webbotlib support on release? *winkwinknudgenudge*
Waaaaayyyy ahead of you on that one :P
Kinda my intro. Yep Admin and I are collaborating - his brains/design - I'm just adding support. No more clues..

So what your saying is we need to put the screws to webbot to find out what the product is...
or check out the source tree...

He-he - I've been very careful to keep this under the hood! So no info there - nor in Project Designer, Board Designer etc.

Hell, whatever it may is, just say... We've been waiting too long...

And apart from that, it's an Admin product... Is that the best part of it?
Perfection takes time!

All I can possibly add is that the 'heart' of the new product is rather new and therefore not very well documented by the manufacturer and there ain't much, useful, stuff on the web. So Admin is breaking a lot of new ground to get this to work along with software support - and whilst the delays seem to be to your collective disappointment it costs him $$$$ for each 'new understanding/fix' - but  the result will rock !!

If he only wanted your money then he could have launched it 6 months ago. But he'd rather give you something that works instead - ie "Proven by Admin"

So: patience is good !!

Nuff said - back to 'quiet mode'
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on May 11, 2011, 05:07:59 PM
Looking through my old files, now I know why I made the mistake. The company that produces the key chip I'm using had left out some very important information in their datasheet. I just downloaded the most recent one and the info is corrected.

-_-*
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: tzankoff on May 11, 2011, 05:09:19 PM
...but I'll still probably publicly announce it in one week
So...what you are telling us is that you'll find another big mistake in six days and delay things again? (Not on purpose, of course.) ;D
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on May 11, 2011, 05:13:23 PM
...but I'll still probably publicly announce it in one week
So...what you are telling us is that you'll find another big mistake in six days and delay things again? (Not on purpose, of course.) ;D
no no, thats when I tell you my manufacturer takes my parts and doesn't manufacture anything for 3+ months or never . . . it's happened before! Three times actually  :-X
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: tzankoff on May 11, 2011, 05:28:28 PM
no no, thats when I tell you my manufacturer takes my parts and doesn't manufacture anything for 3+ months or never . . . it's happened before! Three times actually  :-X
I hate you.  >:(
Thankfully, I am kidding.  ;D
Well...sort of. ;)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: tzankoff on May 16, 2011, 09:50:32 AM
I think I will camp out outside Admin's door until he steps outside and announces to the world what this secret project of his is. Forget any additional waiting. Those who are interested are going to have to do that regardless of whether you tell us what this thing is or not.

:::peeks through the window:::
 ;D
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: person on May 22, 2011, 01:12:38 PM
Bad news everyone . . . found a big mistake and will need to prototype yet another :'(

(not a joke)

2 more weeks delay . . . but I'll still probably publicly announce it in one week . . .

C'mon Admin, it's been more than a week since you posted that. :(
I think I speak for almost everyone when I say that I'm dying to know what this "secret product" is. ???
Patience is a virtue, but your product better be good for all this torture. ;)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on May 22, 2011, 01:57:27 PM
Sorry, I had jury duty *all* last week. :-X

I'm testing the latest version today as we speak (read/type?).
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: TrickyNekro on May 23, 2011, 05:09:40 AM
Another fail post and I'll start a parody...

Sick 'n' tired of all these fillers...
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: richiereynolds on May 23, 2011, 10:04:13 AM
You mentioned it was revolutionary, is it the wheel?  ;)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on May 23, 2011, 09:18:25 PM
I'm still running tests on it, so can't promise the release date or price yet. Probably 2+ months.

The smarter of you squirrels will be able to figure it out without more info. I'll only give more info when it's ready.

http://www.societyofrobots.com/axon_mote/ (http://www.societyofrobots.com/axon_mote/)

YouTube - Broadcast Yourself. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OUGVpnYjVYQ#)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: voyager2 on May 23, 2011, 09:26:55 PM
I mini Axon cool!

Its got more memory than the average Apple ][ !
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Gertlex on May 23, 2011, 10:20:34 PM
Def in for one.  Was hoping for a second header UART (unless I'm mistaken), but I can probably adapt to the USB one, or just ditch using an external servo controller, heh.

Nicely crafted, Admin!
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: TrickyNekro on May 24, 2011, 04:20:29 AM
Following the wave eh?

Nice one there!

Only a side note, it would be cheaper to have a pcb antenna and optional external antenna via some soldering pads...
Anyhow, well done!!!

Finally... It's not a secret (and yup RF can be such a pain, no wonders for the delays)

Best Regards, Lefteris
Greece
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: WaterPig Master on May 24, 2011, 06:52:31 AM
Some kind of wifi-enables Axon, I infer? Nice! That should lead to some interesting robots. What would be really cool would be a built in web server — data could then be sent from the robot to a webpage, and a robot controlled via the web easily…

Thanks,
Barnaby
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Gertlex on May 24, 2011, 07:51:28 AM
Also, props for not using mini/micro/nano/etc. in the name :)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on May 24, 2011, 07:57:16 AM
btw, for those who do not know what a Mote is, wikipedia has an article on it:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motes (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motes)

It can, of course, be used like a 'mini-Axon' for robots, if you don't need as much I/O. ;D

TrickyNekro, trace antennas are over rated :P
(I considered all options, and decided this antenna was the best for robotics)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: madsci1016 on May 24, 2011, 08:09:16 AM
btw, for those who do not know what a Mote is, wikipedia has an article on it:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motes (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motes)


I still think you made that up.  :P I asked many of my co-workers, and none of them knew the 'slang' term. Some guessed it was short for re-mote, like "Throw the mote ov'r here". Guess I live too close to the swamp.

Quote
TrickyNekro, trace antennas are over rated :P
(I considered all options, and decided this antenna was the best for robotics)

I agree with Admin. I hate trace or chip antennas.

I'm surprised more people didn't guess this correctly. Heck, there was even a forum post here a few months ago, where someone was asking about a MCU and wireless radio, and Admin went so far to say "Wait until my secret product comes out". C'mon people!

Not to mention Admin needs to choose a more descrete name on some other technical forums.  ;)  ;) ;)
That was the real clue.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Asellith on May 24, 2011, 09:44:08 AM
Admin your evil.... Now I HAVE to build that swarm robot I've always wanted to try. Your release date is the end of my current work contract. So not only will this cool new Axon be out but I'll be unemployed about that time as well. Great timing :)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: happy_hippo on May 24, 2011, 02:17:47 PM
Will it cost more than axon/axon II ? and how many I\O can it control?
Thank you  ;)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: TrickyNekro on May 25, 2011, 03:16:35 AM
TrickyNekro, trace antennas are over rated :P
(I considered all options, and decided this antenna was the best for robotics)

Not saying otherwise, I'm just talking about selectable antenna via soldering jumper.

Chip antennas have many problems, but are considered a cheap alternative for a reason.
And trace antennas have also many other designing problems...

But I've seen in many 2.4GHz modules that a soldering jumper is generally preferred.
For example that configuration was present in some 2.4GHz Cypress Semi modules, I've sampled a long time ago ;)

Edit: And you're trying to compete the already existing AVR Raven... So keep that in mind for the pricing ;)
Good thing of course that your module is robot oriented and not a general development board.

Anyhow, I wish the best to you ;) (Keep in mind that you are the beloved admin anyways :p )
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: macdad- on May 29, 2011, 04:58:24 PM
Admin, kudos for figuring the RF out ;D (My transistor transmitters are 'meh' quality)

I'm probably gonna save up for one and get some really good projects churning out. The uSD Card connector is a nice touch and the other specs, but how is the battery going to connect to it? The headers?

And what's the transceiver's frequency?

Thanks
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on May 29, 2011, 05:05:27 PM
I'm putting in the manufacturing order for it first thing Monday, so I'll release documentation and pricing in about 4 weeks.


macdad, its on the 2.4GHz spectrum. I'll give more info later.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: enekux on June 08, 2011, 12:21:48 AM
Hi there!!

Any news??? What would be the functionality of the uSD card in the board? Have u maybe changed the usb-uart converter?

cOnGrAtUlAtIoNs!!!
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: BANE on June 08, 2011, 07:44:02 AM
what will be the approx max range between two of these be?  
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on June 08, 2011, 08:11:29 AM
I'll release more information in a few weeks, when I finish up the documentation. Manufacture is about 20% done.

As for range, you'll be impressed ;)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Hawaii00000 on June 13, 2011, 08:31:07 PM
Only a side note, it would be cheaper to have a pcb antenna and optional external antenna via some soldering pads...

I agree with Tricky... why not have a trace antenna built into the board with the option of using the external one?
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on June 13, 2011, 08:49:45 PM
why not have a trace antenna built into the board with the option of using the external one?
I considered that option . . . but after looking at cost/board size/signal quality I determined that the antenna option I went with was by far the best. :P
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: BANE on June 15, 2011, 11:43:30 PM
not trying to be an a$$ and get more info than released but will it be 64-bit compatible?  Also, is the 6 pin header for a programmer?

cant wait to buy:D
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: dunk on June 16, 2011, 01:36:44 AM
Only a side note, it would be cheaper to have a pcb antenna and optional external antenna via some soldering pads...

I agree with Tricky... why not have a trace antenna built into the board with the option of using the external one?
at 2.4GHz an optimal whip antenna is only around 32mm.
when dealing with these distances the extra few mm PCB trace of having a selectable jumper on the antenna will have a detrimental affect on the maximum range.

there is a shortage of long range 2.4GHz products on the market.
if Admin wants to appeal to a wider market maximizing range is a sensible option.


dunk.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on June 16, 2011, 07:15:40 AM
not trying to be an a$$ and get more info than released but will it be 64-bit compatible?  Also, is the 6 pin header for a programmer?
It's the software that we use, not the hardware, that has the 64-compatibility issue. :-X

Webbot and one other person (who's username escapes my bad memory at the moment) are working on new software to resolve these issues. It is our hope/plan that both the new software and the Axon Mote are released at about the same time.

I plan to release full documentation in about 2 weeks. Manufacturing is still on-schedule (fingers crossed).
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on June 16, 2011, 03:23:57 PM
Good news . . . the PCB's are finished - two weeks early! :D

Next is assembly, ie putting components on the PCBs. This has been started, meaning that if nothing goes wrong they'll have it done by July ~5th. :)

In other words, I could ship out as early as mid-July . . . but given my luck, I won't promise anything earlier than late August :P
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: BANE on June 16, 2011, 03:25:55 PM
Quote
done by June ~5th.
im guessing you mean july?  Unless the mote is a time machine ;D
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on June 16, 2011, 03:31:26 PM
Quote
done by June ~5th.
im guessing you mean july?  Unless the mote is a time machine ;D
It *is* in fact a time machine ;D
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: BANE on June 16, 2011, 03:40:16 PM
Quote
It *is* in fact a time machine
ha! I knew it when i saw that flux capacitor on it and you not releasing the power specs because it's actually 1.1 gigawatts  :D :D :D
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: tzankoff on June 18, 2011, 08:23:21 PM
...but will it allow servos to spin up to 88MPH?  :o
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: voyager2 on June 20, 2011, 07:43:04 PM
Quote
It *is* in fact a time machine
ha! I knew it when i saw that flux capacitor on it and you not releasing the power specs because it's actually 1.1 gigawatts  :D :D :D
1.1 gigswatts is easy , just the average Matter - Antimatter driven warp core from the 24th century.
Or I can use the vortex manipulator that I borrowed from River Song  8)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Ryltar on June 21, 2011, 11:20:45 AM
Quote
It *is* in fact a time machine
ha! I knew it when i saw that flux capacitor on it and you not releasing the power specs because it's actually 1.1 gigawatts  :D :D :D

Doesn't the flux capacitor and related systems require 1.21 gigawatts? That means the whole board is going to blow due to it drawing an extra 200,000,000 watts! I don't even want to know what an exploding flux capacitor will do to the local time/space.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on June 24, 2011, 02:38:30 PM
Rough draft documentation, using a temporary link, can be found here:
http://www.societyofrobots.com/axon_mote/ (http://www.societyofrobots.com/axon_mote/)

There are a few dead images in the getting started section, but just about all of it is there. The source code isn't ready for public release yet.

I'm open to questions, comments, and suggestions for the documentation.

No manufacturing delays have been reported, so I estimated the absolute earliest shipping date possible as July 8th. But don't quote me on it. I'll start taking pre-orders in a week or two - but no pre-order discounts, sorry. :P
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: BANE on June 24, 2011, 03:48:18 PM
For a demo program: could you make a program that will allow two Motes to communicate with each other?  I'm currently working on a large RC (not quite a robot yet) and communication with it as been a nightmere with ps2 controllers, radio and such.  But when i heard about your product I think it be perfect it.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on June 24, 2011, 04:06:34 PM
For a demo program: could you make a program that will allow two Motes to communicate with each other?
Oh, I wrote that demo program like 6 months ago :P
(the example code is easy to use and well commented)

There is also example code for storing stuff and using the uSD, changing frequencies, and measuring signal strength.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Gertlex on June 24, 2011, 04:10:13 PM
From my limited experience, the whole xbee/zigbee stuff is confusing.  I didn't find any statements of how the wireless is connected to 'stuff'.  An example, and/or specific hardware that it works with would be useful.
For example:
-Pair direct to a computer with a Wifi card?
-Pair with a computer-connected xbee?
-Pair with a different bot that uses an xbee?

A tutorial on adding a remote power switch might be neat, too (I imagine this would entail desoldering the current power switch, and then wiring an equivalent switch).  This would be useful for, putting the switch somewhere more accessible on a bot. Granted, I also suspect that this is a pretty dang simple task...

I don't think I'll be buying one, for now, since I use 5V regulated stuff for everything currently.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on June 24, 2011, 04:17:20 PM
I don't think I'll be buying one, for now, since I use 5V regulated stuff for everything currently.
I'm just curious, which devices? I'm asking because about 2/3rds of the stuff out there will work at 3.3V.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Gertlex on June 24, 2011, 04:36:17 PM
I don't think I'll be buying one, for now, since I use 5V regulated stuff for everything currently.
I'm just curious, which devices? I'm asking because about 2/3rds of the stuff out there will work at 3.3V.

You might be right.  The one example I can verify at the moment is the ICs I use for my tristate buffer (http://www.societyofrobots.com/robotforum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=13740.0;attach=5574;image) for AX-12 servos.  But maybe the ICs work at 3.3V...  The TTL-> serial connection adapter that I use is powered with 5V, not sure if it works at lower voltages.  I need to investigate further, really.  I think a lot of the stuff is communications hardware which the built-in zigbee might free me from in general.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on June 24, 2011, 06:33:10 PM
For a 5V device to send a signal to a 3.3V device, you can use a two resistor voltage divider (although probably not feasible if you have many AX-12 servos). 5V devices can accept 3.3V signals without an adapter.

IMU's/gyros/accelerometers, I2C devices, uSD, and GPS are almost all 3.3V. Servos can accept a 3.3V signal. Most analog sensors can take 3.3V, including sharp IR. The DroneCell, Razor IMU, and the Blackfin camera are all 3.3V.

You can power the Mote directly from your USB, an $8 solar panel, or a small cheap 3.6V battery - something unheard of with 5V microcontrollers :P


salesman_mode(OFF);//hehe
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: madsci1016 on June 24, 2011, 06:47:09 PM
5V devices can accept 3.3V signals without an adapter.

Well, the great Xbee adapter conspiracy says otherwise. *Most*can accept.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on June 24, 2011, 07:17:47 PM
5V devices can accept 3.3V signals without an adapter.

Well, the great Xbee adapter conspiracy says otherwise. *Most*can accept.
The Xbee doesn't send a 3.3V signal, otherwise it'd work without an adapter :P

(I think it was like 2.9V if my memory is right)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: madsci1016 on June 24, 2011, 07:23:42 PM
Like all devices, it has a range of tolerances. From 2.7 to 3.3V. Mine read at 3.2V. Anything below 3V isn't readable by an 5V Atmega
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: madsci1016 on June 24, 2011, 07:29:38 PM
Actually, the min voltage out for the Mote is 2.9V, meaning it could have trouble talking to 5V AVRs that require a min of 3V.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on June 24, 2011, 07:59:12 PM
Actually, the min voltage out for the Mote is 2.9V, meaning it could have trouble talking to 5V AVRs that require a min of 3V.
Commanding the pin just to stay high, I'm measuring 3.329V from the Tx pin. I don't have an oscope at home, so it's possible it might be lower at high frequencies . . . what page in the datasheet did you see that info?
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: madsci1016 on June 24, 2011, 08:03:35 PM
Electrical characteristics table. I don't have it open anymore.

Like I said, it's all tolerances, not absolutes. Tolerance for the Mote is min VDD-0.4
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: totalis on June 25, 2011, 12:59:37 PM
How much will they be (expected) and when can i order 2 of them? I am fed up of trying to make bluetooth work

T
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on June 25, 2011, 01:50:49 PM
How much will they be (expected) and when can i order 2 of them? I am fed up of trying to make bluetooth work
Likely some time around mid-July, but it's up to my manufacturer on how long they take. Preorders will start when I'm more certain of a shipping date.

One advantage the Mote has over bluetooth is that the Mote allows for mesh networks. This means you can use them as repeaters if you'd like. Bluetooth doesn't allow this.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: TrickyNekro on June 25, 2011, 04:54:33 PM
Also zigbee is targeted for power conserving applications. Bluetooth is quite a power hungry protocol.

The bad thing from the other point is that zigbee modules for pc are nowhere that cheap as bluetooth modules,
like these fire and forget usb bluetooth...
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: blackbeard on June 27, 2011, 06:52:01 PM
is that wifi?
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: TrickyNekro on June 27, 2011, 08:39:46 PM
is that wifi?

My microwave oven works at 2.4Ghz. That doesn't make it wifi.

Zigbee is for Zigbee, like V for Vendetta... Ahh and G for Google.

It's a low power mesh network communication protocol. And it's not materialized only on the 2.4Ghz....

Humans can make sounds with their mouth... They place these sounds in order and they build something that's
called a language, so the members of a social group can communicate accurately with each other.
As for electronic transmitters they make electromagnetic waves. But sometime, you need a language cause
things can get pretty pretty messy in a situation of multiple individuals.
So protocols are born... like zigbee, wifi, bluetooth, GPS (I mean the transmission) and so many many more...

And it's a good idea to google, btw....
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: enekux on June 29, 2011, 07:55:56 AM
Tempo-Tempo... Zigduino on the way...

http://www.logos-electro.com/zigduino/ (http://www.logos-electro.com/zigduino/)

;)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on June 29, 2011, 08:02:44 AM
Tempo-Tempo... Zigduino on the way...

http://www.logos-electro.com/zigduino/ (http://www.logos-electro.com/zigduino/)

Mote is better :P
 . . . it doesn't have a uSD slot, requires 6V, doesn't have a power bus, is twice as big, uses the same ATmega128RFA1, doesn't come with a USB cable . . . and yet it costs the same as an Axon Mote :P
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: enekux on June 29, 2011, 08:08:13 AM
No doubts about it... Mote rulez!!!

BTW: the documentation that you are preparing looks great ;)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: PierceNichols on June 29, 2011, 08:41:34 AM
I'm selling Zigduinos today.  ;D

It's designed to be Arduino compatible, and therefore is the size of an Arduino. This allows you to use all of the wide range of Arduino shields (www.shieldlist.org (http://www.shieldlist.org) has a list) with it. 6V is the power requirement if you use the main power connector. The 5V and 3.3V regulators are in series, so you can power it with anything down to 3.3V as long as you choose the right input pins.

I've got a cheaper and much smaller Mini version coming that wil have a uSD slot and a battery connector. It's intended to be taped to a battery, wrapped in foam, and placed via slingshot.

All competitive talk aside, congratulations. Going all the way to production is a major challenge. I look forward to seeing the Axon Mote when it hits the market. I'd love to trade hardware samples if you're interested.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on June 29, 2011, 09:57:12 AM
PierceNichols, you made a mistake on your Zigduino board (I looked at your schematic). Program your board to do stuff, and let it run for a long period of time. Your program will randomly freeze some time between every 20 minutes to 3 hours. (I'm not joking, try it)

 :P
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: PierceNichols on June 29, 2011, 06:39:44 PM
I think I know what you're talking about -- floating CLKI, right? I'd already run some long-term tests (i.e. leaving several board overnight), but I decided to do some more in response to your comment. I ran my production test code (which gives all the I/O a workout, including the radio) on five randomly selected boards for an eight hour test. None of them hung during that period. Perhaps more recent chips are less susceptible; the date codes on the one I built this run with indicate they were manufactured at the beginning of February of this year.

However, for the sake of safety and completeness, I'll be correcting it on the next spin of the Zigduino.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on June 29, 2011, 06:44:35 PM
Yeap, it's the CLKI pin that you missed. :P
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 01, 2011, 04:19:42 PM
The assembly company said they just started the assembly, putting them at least a week behind.  :-X

That means the earliest I can ship is now mid-July.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: totalis on July 10, 2011, 04:11:03 AM
Hows the project coming?
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 10, 2011, 09:01:52 AM
Still no word from them. They are on week 3 of a 2 week job . . . :-\
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: tzankoff on July 11, 2011, 01:01:49 PM
Still no word from them. They are on week 3 of a 2 week job . . . :-\
Sure as hell hope they do not divide by zero. :D
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 15, 2011, 05:05:51 PM
I poked them, and this was their response:
Quote
There are roughly 25 boards left for inspection.  We should ship them out
either this afternoon or Monday morning.

Long story short, I'm very like to ship around August ~1st.

As such, I'm now taking pre-orders:
http://www.societyofrobots.com/axon_mote_test/ (http://www.societyofrobots.com/axon_mote_test/)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: voyager2 on July 15, 2011, 08:00:38 PM
$70 for one seems like a fair price.
[sarcasm]Still, 4.50 for a USB cable is just too much ;) [/sarcasm] hehe

So does this mean I get to put a few Motes in the SOR video game?

Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 15, 2011, 08:32:59 PM
ouch . . . :-X

FYI, sparkfun sells their USB cable for $5.95 (http://www.sparkfun.com/products/10424) (it's longer, but it's the best A to B mini comparison they got). ;D

Besides, an Arduino is $29.95 and a basic long range Xbee is $37.95. An Xbee Pro is $71.95. :P
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: BANE on July 16, 2011, 05:04:34 AM
3.3v really blows for me :P since everything I have is 5v; is there a way to modify the ADC bus to 5v?  Like scratch off the power lead to the 3.3v bus and solder a 5v regulator to it?

also, I assume they dont come with an  antenna?  if so will this one work? http://www.sparkfun.com/products/558 (http://www.sparkfun.com/products/558)

Just out of curiosity, I have a ps3 controller that i use with my laptop (I downloaded a driver that lets the computer know it's a joystick for games and stuff), is it possible for the Mote to transmit joystick data from the computer?

thanks!
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: corrado33 on July 16, 2011, 06:48:18 AM
Haha brand new product and he's already talking about how to modify it  :D :D
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: voyager2 on July 16, 2011, 07:32:26 AM
I might get one of these (examines piggy bank)
Paper and cardboard Axon Motes,
Marzipan servos...
Mmmm.......
Competition time, me thinks  ;)

3.3v really blows for me :P since everything I have is 5v; is there a way to modify the ADC bus to 5v?  Like scratch off the power lead to the 3.3v bus and solder a 5v regulator to it?
Admin said somewhere that you can use a voltage divider for that ...

Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: joe61 on July 16, 2011, 07:34:35 AM
ouch . . . :-X

FYI, sparkfun sells their USB cable for $5.95 (http://www.sparkfun.com/products/10424) (it's longer, but it's the best A to B mini comparison they got). ;D

Besides, an Arduino is $29.95 and a basic long range Xbee is $37.95. An Xbee Pro is $71.95. :P

OTOH, Pololu has one for 2.49: http://www.pololu.com/catalog/product/130 (http://www.pololu.com/catalog/product/130)

Joe
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 16, 2011, 08:50:39 AM
3.3v really blows for me :P since everything I have is 5v; is there a way to modify the ADC bus to 5v?  Like scratch off the power lead to the 3.3v bus and solder a 5v regulator to it?
In terms of the signal line, most 5V devices can get 3.3V on an I/O pin and work fine. The Mote however can't get anything above 3.3V on any I/O pin, so you'll need a voltage divider (two resistors, see VOLTAGE TOLERANCES in datasheet). In terms of powering the devices, most stuff made today will work at 3.3V. The chip on the Mote will fry above ~3.6V, so you can't modify the regulator.

Quote
also, I assume they dont come with an  antenna?
Antenna is included. ;D

Quote
Just out of curiosity, I have a ps3 controller that i use with my laptop (I downloaded a driver that lets the computer know it's a joystick for games and stuff), is it possible for the Mote to transmit joystick data from the computer?
ummmm, I don't quite understand your question . . .


Quote
OTOH, Pololu has one for 2.49: http://www.pololu.com/catalog/product/130 (http://www.pololu.com/catalog/product/130)
If you buy more than one Mote, the cable comes included at no additional cost. :P

(I'm wondering where they bought their cables to have them so cheap . . .)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: BANE on July 16, 2011, 09:06:26 AM
Quote
Quote
Just out of curiosity, I have a ps3 controller that i use with my laptop (I downloaded a driver that lets the computer know it's a joystick for games and stuff), is it possible for the Mote to transmit joystick data from the computer?

ummmm, I don't quite understand your question . . .
"=>" is "communicates with"
ps3 controller => laptop => wireless network=> Mote on my robot
Basically I have a large robot outside my house that i want to be able to control with my ps3 controller with my laptop inside my house.  This project is probably a little big and custom software is probably required.  However, I thought id throw it out there. :)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 16, 2011, 10:02:49 AM
Oh. In that case, you'd want to do this:
ps3 controller => Mote inside your house <=> wireless network <=> Mote on robot
                                     ^
                                     ||
                                     V
                            laptop (optional)

(in other words, you don't even need a laptop)

WebbotLib has a PS3 controller driver, so it shouldn't take you long to get that working.

If you did use a laptop, you'd need other application software to transmit data by USB from the PS3 to the Mote. That's just an extra layer of complication/work that's best avoided. For the Mote in your house, you can still plug that into your laptop for power (to avoid needing a battery), or for seeing any extra data on Hyperterminal, etc.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: BANE on July 16, 2011, 11:25:32 AM
since "ps3" is bluetooth, i would need a receiver on the Mote right?  Also, I just searched webbotlib and didnt find anything about a ps3 controller.  what a sec, are you thinking of ps2 controller? 
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 16, 2011, 12:50:40 PM
since "ps3" is bluetooth, i would need a receiver on the Mote right?  Also, I just searched webbotlib and didnt find anything about a ps3 controller.  what a sec, are you thinking of ps2 controller? 
hmmmm yea I was thinking of PS2, oops . . . in that case, you'll need a computer to use bluetooth :P

As such, you will need software that reads the PS3 commands and sends the result by USB to the Mote . . . but I feel like this is over-complicating things. Why not just attach a few buttons to a hand-held Mote, and bypass the computer/PS3 entirely?
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 16, 2011, 03:55:25 PM
If there are more concerns about 3.3V vs 5V, I've created this thread for those who'd like to discuss it:
http://www.societyofrobots.com/robotforum/index.php?topic=14128.0 (http://www.societyofrobots.com/robotforum/index.php?topic=14128.0)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: BANE on July 17, 2011, 10:04:37 AM
Quote
but I feel like this is over-complicating things. Why not just attach a few buttons to a hand-held Mote, and bypass the computer/PS3 entirely?
i highly doubt i will be able to make anything as compact and featured as the ps3 controller  :'( but you're right, all i really need is a joystick and some buttons.

another nooby Q: can all the available pins be used for I/O?  I just didnt see it listed in the features page like the axon I and II.
 
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 17, 2011, 05:23:18 PM
another nooby Q: can all the available pins be used for I/O?  I just didnt see it listed in the features page like the axon I and II.
Well, just the available I/O pins can be used  :P
(I'm not quite sure what you are asking, but it's just like the Axon II in terms of I/O)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: BANE on July 17, 2011, 05:28:59 PM
for instance, here http://www.societyofrobots.com/axon2/ (http://www.societyofrobots.com/axon2/) under SPECIFICATIONS it has "58 I/O Total".  I just didnt see anything here http://www.societyofrobots.com/axon_mote_test/axon_mote_features.shtml (http://www.societyofrobots.com/axon_mote_test/axon_mote_features.shtml) that said how many I/O
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 17, 2011, 06:13:31 PM
for instance, here http://www.societyofrobots.com/axon2/ (http://www.societyofrobots.com/axon2/) under SPECIFICATIONS it has "58 I/O Total".  I just didnt see anything here http://www.societyofrobots.com/axon_mote_test/axon_mote_features.shtml (http://www.societyofrobots.com/axon_mote_test/axon_mote_features.shtml) that said how many I/O
click on the datasheet page for full details on the I/O
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Killerwolfbot on July 18, 2011, 12:46:26 PM
Are these things for sale yet? And can you recoment any simple projects to get started with a mote?
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 18, 2011, 12:50:52 PM
I'm taking pre-orders but nothing is shipping yet  - I'm waiting for my manufacturer to finish. I'll have lots of example projects up when that happens.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 19, 2011, 06:15:59 PM
I just got an email from my manufacturer informing me that they've completed manufacture. So in theory, I'll get them in the mail in a week, and have it shipped to your house the week after.

In theory.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: BANE on July 19, 2011, 06:48:01 PM
just put in for two ;D.  Can't wait to see them!
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 19, 2011, 07:01:05 PM
just put in for two ;D.  Can't wait to see them!
Yea I just saw it. First customer ;D
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: corrado33 on July 19, 2011, 07:18:03 PM
Can I get serial number 33? 

I kid I kid.   :D
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 20, 2011, 06:58:07 PM
update: My manufacturer charged me and sent me tracking numbers for the shipment. Not yet shipped, however.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 21, 2011, 06:49:10 AM
update: Items were shipped to me, and tracking says it'll arrive in 5 more days. Suspense!
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: person on July 21, 2011, 11:34:14 AM
update: Items were shipped to me, and tracking says it'll arrive in 5 more days. Suspense!

All I can say is: It's about time (grumbles)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 21, 2011, 12:12:17 PM
I've been working on it since January of 2010 . . . I feel the same way!

(in the back of my head, I have this worry that they made a mistake . . . like all the LEDs are backwards, or something worse :-X)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Killerwolfbot on July 21, 2011, 12:46:43 PM
I'mma order one when i get paid. Can't wait to play with it. I just don't have a credit card or anything sooo do you take money orders or something? hahaha XD
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 21, 2011, 01:33:25 PM
I'mma order one when i get paid. Can't wait to play with it. I just don't have a credit card or anything sooo do you take money orders or something? hahaha XD
I also take checks, and can do Western Union. But I'm leaving the US in ~6 weeks for a looooong vacation, so you'd have to get me it before then. :P
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: person on July 21, 2011, 01:33:56 PM
I've been working on it since January of 2010 . . . I feel the same way!

(in the back of my head, I have this worry that they made a mistake . . . like all the LEDs are backwards, or something worse :-X)

just wondering, but has that ever happened on any of your other products?
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 21, 2011, 01:41:52 PM
just wondering, but has that ever happened on any of your other products?
yeap . . . On the first batch of the original Axon, all the LEDs were backward. I had to manually fix them, not too hard to do. If the ATmega chip was backwards, that'd not be easy at all . . .

My first Axon II manufacturer promised me 2 months. In 4 months they only finished 20% of the units, and 75% of them were bad. He then took an entire year of lies and ignored phone calls to return to me the remaining parts . . . it was a horrible expensive experience. I found the phone number of the manager's mother (a nice lady), and called her weekly for months before it finally got solved. Almost two years later, and I'm still in negotiations with another manufacturer to repair those units. :-X
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: person on July 21, 2011, 01:46:55 PM
just wondering, but has that ever happened on any of your other products?
yeap . . . On the first batch of the original Axon, all the LEDs were backward. I had to manually fix them, not too hard to do. If the ATmega chip was backwards, that'd not be easy at all . . .

My first Axon II manufacturer promised me 2 months. In 4 months they only finished 20% of the units, and 75% of them were bad. He then took an entire year of lies and ignored phone calls to return to me the remaining parts . . . it was a horrible expensive experience. I found the phone number of the manager's mother (a nice lady), and called her weekly for months before it finally got solved. Almost two years later, and I'm still in negotiations with another manufacturer to repair those units. :-X

Talk about bad luck :o..........
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Webbot on July 21, 2011, 01:56:48 PM
I'm leaving the US in ~6 weeks for a looooong vacation, so you'd have to get me it before then. :P
Sorry but can you translate please. What's a vacation? Do I also need one of those? Currently have an 'occupation' which sounds similar but when I asked folk they said that its in-compatible with a 'vacation'. Looked on another forum and apparently I need to reboot myself. Is this normal ?

Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: totalis on July 21, 2011, 04:24:03 PM
@ADMIN Slightly off topic, but; what was mis-manufactured about the bad batch of axons you mentioned earlier, and on a related note, how much?

T
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 21, 2011, 06:05:59 PM
I'm leaving the US in ~6 weeks for a looooong vacation, so you'd have to get me it before then. :P
Sorry but can you translate please. What's a vacation?
It's when I travel [mostly] Asia for ~8 months . . . It means I have more time to write tutorials for SoR, and to possibly design a new product while on the road. I designed the Axon II and Axon Mote both while living in Bangkok :P
(you're welcome to visit! dunk visited me last time :))

@ADMIN Slightly off topic, but; what was mis-manufactured about the bad batch of axons you mentioned earlier, and on a related note, how much?
You mean Axon II? The bad manufacturer left massive solder bridging on the ATmega640 and the CP2102 (USB chip). The only way to fix them is to entirely remove, clean, then resolder them onto the boards. I'm still negotiating a repair quote, but lets just say repair costs more than assembly :'(
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: totalis on July 22, 2011, 07:21:22 AM
@Admin, That sucks... good that you are not using that company any more...

The damaged axons seem repairable, i do have a hot air reflow kit that makes the process considerably easier. How much would it cost for me to buy a couple of the damaged ones off you?

T
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 22, 2011, 07:29:13 AM
Don't worry about, the company should have them repaired for me in the coming ~4 weeks. :)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: totalis on July 22, 2011, 07:32:10 AM
That would have been an interesting soldering project :)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: person on July 22, 2011, 06:34:46 PM
Just..........four..............days..................left.
I guess I should be more concerned about staying sane lol :)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Killerwolfbot on July 23, 2011, 11:02:28 AM
I'm sure i can get a check off my brother. I can send it the 2nd or 3rd, do I go through the shop online, do you wanna PM me? How am i ordering this?
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 23, 2011, 11:59:11 AM
I'm sure i can get a check off my brother. I can send it the 2nd or 3rd, do I go through the shop online, do you wanna PM me? How am i ordering this?
PM sent
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Gertlex on July 24, 2011, 03:46:41 PM
One question that hasn't been answered is how the wifi is interfaced with.  To quote what I previously asked:

Quote
From my limited experience, the whole xbee/zigbee stuff is confusing.  I didn't find any statements of how the wireless is connected to 'stuff'.  An example, and/or specific hardware that it works with would be useful.
For example:
-Pair direct to a computer with a Wifi card?
-Pair with a computer-connected xbee?
-Pair with a different bot that uses an xbee?

My needs are: 1) a wifi serial connection with a computer (preferably not ad-hoc); and 2) a UART to control AX-12 servos.  Most awesome would be if I can pair the zigbee radio (actually not even sure if that's what's on there) with a common Xbee (Series 2, ZB, as Sparkfun refers to the ones I have), which would in turn be connected to my computer via usb as I already do.

Thanks! (Looks like I can deal with the 3.3V stuff, btw...)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 25, 2011, 07:33:36 AM
Gertlex, I'm not completely sure. The Atmel documentation all makes it appear as possible, but I have no proofs to make a claim either way. I'd assume if your software imitates the proper command structures of Xbee/wifi, it'll work.

My wireless code will be released as beta, ie it works but no bells and whistles [yet]. So it'll be very open to outside suggestions.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Gertlex on July 25, 2011, 09:41:46 AM
Gertlex, I'm not completely sure. The Atmel documentation all makes it appear as possible, but I have no proofs to make a claim either way. I'd assume if your software imitates the proper command structures of Xbee/wifi, it'll work.

My wireless code will be released as beta, ie it works but no bells and whistles [yet]. So it'll be very open to outside suggestions.

I take it that you've only tested the wifi capabilities between multiple Motes?

As for imitating the command structure... Right now I just treat my xbee connection like it's serial connection (serial port on computer to UART on Axon).  I'll wait and see if it ends up being that simple :)  (I'll even put mounting holes on the robot chassis which would fit the Mote)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 26, 2011, 01:31:37 PM
The Motes came in today, and I ran a whole bunch of basic (but not exhaustive) tests on two units, and everything checks out great!  :D

The Axon Mote is now officially for sale, and I'll ship the first batch out first thing tomorrow.

http://www.societyofrobots.com/axon_mote/ (http://www.societyofrobots.com/axon_mote/)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: person on July 26, 2011, 03:35:31 PM
Admin, will Robotshop eventually be selling Motes?

I was wondering because I noticed that they are listed as one of the official dealers of the axon 2, but they only carry the original one.  :(
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 26, 2011, 03:43:07 PM
The Axon Mote will only be sold through SoR for this year.
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: Admin on July 28, 2011, 05:52:04 PM
I just uploaded a bunch of 'action shots' of the Mote here:
http://www.societyofrobots.com/axon_mote/axon_mote_setup2.shtml (http://www.societyofrobots.com/axon_mote/axon_mote_setup2.shtml)

I also uploaded a bunch of pictures of the Axon Mote when it was set up for space travel:
http://www.societyofrobots.com/axon_mote/axon_mote_examples.shtml (http://www.societyofrobots.com/axon_mote/axon_mote_examples.shtml)
(see image links for Axon Mote in Space)

(http://www.societyofrobots.com/axon_mote/images/axon_mote_battery.jpg)
Title: Re: admins secret new product
Post by: BANE on July 29, 2011, 03:34:32 PM
came home today and was greeted by these two badboys ;D   hooray!
I can't what to get them hooked up