Society of Robots - Robot Forum

Electronics => Electronics => Topic started by: zack on July 22, 2008, 05:35:39 AM

Title: A reconfigurable robotics platform
Post by: zack on July 22, 2008, 05:35:39 AM
Hello folks!
I created this basic object avoidance robot using the sharp IR, but spent a considerable amount of time building a chassis that was sturdy and reusable. No drilling, no permanent fixtures. All metal construction (95%, well almost!) with nuts and bolts. The same goes for electronics too.  Used connectors where possible and soldering has been kept to a minimum.

The placement of various components like the battery holders, pcb, breadboard are in such a way that they are easily accessible for quick modifications. Not the one-on-top-of another design where accessing the bottom plate can tricky.

While testing code, I'd place the rover on its back, the back battery pack touching the ground and wheels in the air so I don't have to run behind a rougue robot!

Here's a video: http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-8996877282379774452&hl=en

and some pictures with comments:
http://picasaweb.google.com/fployd/AntaresRover?authkey=pm8LrZSx3VU

(http://lh6.ggpht.com/fployd/SIM9Psbk3MI/AAAAAAAAAEw/sjZlMMktyzo/IMG_0321.JPG?imgmax=512)
Title: Re: A reconfigurable robotics platform
Post by: airman00 on July 22, 2008, 08:21:42 AM
Looks like a homemade Vex robot

(http://www.andybrain.com/extras/images/vex-robotics-design-system-review-robot3.jpg)

Nice job making it all modular and looks very clean design also  .
Title: Re: A reconfigurable robotics platform
Post by: zack on July 22, 2008, 05:38:11 PM
Thanks airman! I considered the vex kit, but decided against it due to the price. But vex is a great kit.  Btw, love your butlerbot.  I can imagine the time and effort that must've taken.  Great job!