RP6 ROBOT SYSTEM - 1. Introduction
1.5. What can the RP6 do?
Well, directly taken out of the box – not much!
It is the Software which enables the RP6 to actually do something – what this is ex-
actly, is up to you and your creativity to teach the robot how to perform. The attrac-
tion of robotics bases on the fascinating process of implementing new ideas or optim-
izing and improving excisting things! Of course you may start by simply executing and
modifying the prepared sample programs to have a look at the standard features, but
it is not limited to that!
The following list mentiones only a few examples and it is up to you to expand the
RP6. There are hundreds of possibilities (s. next page for example).
Basically the RP6 can …:
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... cruise around autonomously (this means independently, without remote control)
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... avoid obstacles
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... follow light sources and measure light intensity
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... detect collisions, blocked engines, low battery level and react properly on that
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... measure and control the rotational speed of the motors – virtually independently
of the power level of batteries, weight, etc. (this is performed with the high resolu-
tion encoders)
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... move for a given distance, rotate for specific angles and measure the driven dis-
tance (see chapter 2 for deviations)
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... move geometric figures, e.g. circles, polygons and others
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... exchange data with other robots or devices. Commands may be received from
standard TV/Video/HiFi remote controls and you will be able to control your robot
just like a remote controlled car. Or you use a Wireless LAN expansion Module...
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... transfer sensor data and other data to a PC with the USB Interface
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... be expanded easily by using the flexible bus-system!
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... modified according to your ideas. Just have a look at the schematics on the CD
and the PCB! But please restrict modifications to those you fully understand! It is
usually a better idea to start off by using an expansion board – particularly if you
are unexperienced in soldering circuits and electronics in general.
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