Lil' Buddy by Dave Carter

This was my first robot project and it turned out great.  It had it's
set backs and really helped set the theory for my
next project.

Specs.

Brain Power - Basic Stamp II w/Serial Link to a PC or Laptop
2 Window Motors From A 1985 Subaru (former yard ornament)
Relay control circuit (no speed control :o( )
Encoder System on the wheels
Polaroid Sonar System
IR Sensors for Collision Detection
Sound and Light Sensors

Construction:

Channel and Angle Aluminum from local Home Center
Angle and "L" Brackets
The back of a old TV (pressboard material)

This was my test bed for checking out how all the systems work together
and design problems I might encounter.

Problems:

WAY TOO FAST - These motors are work horses and could easily pack me
around but too fast for the collision detection to
keep it from ramming the furniture.

Relays did not give me the speed and direction control needed.  I will
definitly go solid state next time around.

Basic Stamp was fantastic for interfacing to a PC but a little weak stand
alone, possibly a more advanced brain next time.

The centered drive wheels with fore and aft casters was a mistake once
one of the casters gets up on the edge of . . .say . . carpet one of
the drive wheels leave the ground making control difficult in rough terrain
(or average household floor for that matter) 

Overall a blast to design and build and I can't wait for the sparks to
start to fly on my next project, a smaller and more controllable version.
Anybody that has any ideas, suggestions, or groups that might help me
out let me know =)

daveman@mis.net


Email: daveman@mis.net