Plank

By ericski @ Sun, 2008-10-05 17:41

• Actuators / output devices: 2 Futaba 9101 modified Servos
• Control method: autonomous
• CPU: Arduino Decimila
• Power source: 9V - CPU, 4xAA batteries - motor
• Sensors / input devices: Sharp IR, bumper switches
• Target environment: Indoors - Carpet

This is the start of "Plank." My first successful attempt at a robot.

The base is made from a 3mm thick 4x12 inch piece of plywood. Wheels are model airplane wheels bolted on to servo horns. I modified two Futaba servos for continous rotation for locomotion. The tail wheel is a tamiya ball caster. I tried a couple of other casters but they were either too heavy or they didn't rotate well.

For sensors I have a Sharp IR sensor (GP2D120) for close range object detection. There are two bumper switches on the back sides that I still need to wire up. I also have a Ping to hook up with another servo for longer range scanning.

The Arduino & electronics are powered by a 9V battery using the Arduino's regulator. The servos have their own 6V supply (underneath the breadboard.)

Update 10/7/2008

The rear bumper switches are wired up.   Added 2 more IR sensors for more front coverage. Playing around with the movement algorithm. Will randomly move in a direction other than forward.