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Software => Software => Topic started by: derrick_chi on December 20, 2007, 11:33:00 AM

Title: Anyone interested in a custom build thread?
Post by: derrick_chi on December 20, 2007, 11:33:00 AM
Hello all.

I've been planning for sometime now to add some custom circuits and programmable logic to my RCs, I've already done so with my car and I was planning to start on a pretty large project with a monster truck I just got. I plan on adding some autonomous capabilities to the truck by means of custom circuits and programming. Eventually I plan on have the truck at almost 100 autonomous, with the RC option still intact of course. Some of the things I plan on adding to start things off are listed below.

1. Collision prevention.
2. Obstacle detection and avoidance. 
3. Roll over prevention.
4. Engine overheating protection.
5. Lastly autonomous gps navigation.


There will be additional things to add, to be sure, but those are a few of the basics. So what I wanted to know from you guys is if any of you would be interested in a build thread like that? I don't want to start the thread if it wouldn't be interesting or fun you guys to follow along and maybe even contribute. So if you would be interested just chime in and so, if not just don't reply at all, and if I get enough replys I'll start the thread. Oh yeah if you have any questions, fire away.
Title: Re: Anyone interested in a custom build thread?
Post by: cooldog on December 20, 2007, 11:40:18 AM
that sounds so sweet keep me posted
Title: Re: Anyone interested in a custom build thread?
Post by: Mega on December 20, 2007, 11:48:54 AM
Sounds interesting, keep us informed!
Title: Re: Anyone interested in a custom build thread?
Post by: derrick_chi on January 15, 2008, 12:23:48 PM
Hi guys

I'am still in the hardware building phase. I basically have the Microprocessor designed and built, I am in the process of building the Bus that will serve as an interface between the microprocessor and the sensors, pwms, receiver, and the gps unit. I am almost finished with the bus design as well, it should only take me a couple more days. I just finished designing the I2C Master controller (for the range sensors and the temperature sensor), the RS232 unit (to talk with GPS receiver) is done as well, and so are the PWMs and PWMEs ( Pulse Width Modulation Encoders ) I'll be using to control the throttle and steering and also to receive and encode signals from the receiver/transmitter for control when in manual mode. Right now I'm just putting it all together and that wil take a couple of days.

Once I have all the hardware stuff done, then I just need to write programs for the different functions I want to implement in the truck, thats when I'll start the custom build post. I'll probably need some tips from the experts on certain things when I start to write programs to implement the functions I mentioned before.

I think I want to start off with a "Break in Function" which automates the break in process. This shouldn't be too hard to do but I want to make sure I'm doing everthing right and I put in the proper safety features to ensure nothing happens to the engine. I should be starting this by Monday.