Difference between revisions of "Robot"
(New page: Category:Science Category:Engineering == Some notes on an Evil Robot == I built a small robot to chase cats. Technically, this was not a robot since it was not autonomous, but rath...) |
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== Some notes on an Evil Robot == | == Some notes on an Evil Robot == | ||
− | I built a small robot to chase cats. Technically, this was not a robot since it was not autonomous, but rather a | + | I built a small robot to chase cats. Technically, this was not a robot since it was not autonomous, but rather a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Telepresence telepresence] device. For a real robot see the one built by my friend [http://golem5.org/robot1/mailblog.html Chris Jang]. |
The platform utilized a small video transmitter (cost $200) and a tricycle system with two powered wheels. The third wheel was a free castor. Each wheel was powered by a servo that was modified to spin freely (disconnect the feedback potentiometer). | The platform utilized a small video transmitter (cost $200) and a tricycle system with two powered wheels. The third wheel was a free castor. Each wheel was powered by a servo that was modified to spin freely (disconnect the feedback potentiometer). | ||
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A slow robot using low geared motors is much better than a high speed robot. A "burst speed" mode for long straight runs would be a good improvement. | A slow robot using low geared motors is much better than a high speed robot. A "burst speed" mode for long straight runs would be a good improvement. | ||
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+ | [http://www.noah.org/science/robot/cat_terminator.avi Video] -- Video of a test run of the robot in action. This is an 8MB AVI file. | ||
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+ | Photos of the platform without the video camera. I call this construction technique "field expedient". Some call it "crappy". | ||
[[Image:robot_img1.jpg]] | [[Image:robot_img1.jpg]] | ||
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+ | [[Image:robot_img2.jpg]] | ||
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+ | [[Image:robot_img3.jpg]] | ||
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+ | [[Image:robot_img4.jpg]] |
Latest revision as of 11:12, 27 May 2011
Some notes on an Evil Robot
I built a small robot to chase cats. Technically, this was not a robot since it was not autonomous, but rather a telepresence device. For a real robot see the one built by my friend Chris Jang.
The platform utilized a small video transmitter (cost $200) and a tricycle system with two powered wheels. The third wheel was a free castor. Each wheel was powered by a servo that was modified to spin freely (disconnect the feedback potentiometer).
The main problems encountered were:
* Poor video quality * Poor video transmission range * Unable to right itself after being pushed over by feline foe.
The main advantages of the robot:
* Small size * Maneuverability -- fine, precise control * Stability * Multiple terrain capability. This robot could handle soil, deep carpet, and linoleum very well. * Modular and easy to repair. Most components were attached with nylon cable ties. This made field repairs quick and easy. * Cheap
Things learned:
A slow robot using low geared motors is much better than a high speed robot. A "burst speed" mode for long straight runs would be a good improvement.
Video -- Video of a test run of the robot in action. This is an 8MB AVI file.
Photos of the platform without the video camera. I call this construction technique "field expedient". Some call it "crappy".