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Unread 16-01-2012, 01:25
Matt H. Matt H. is offline
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Re: Stabilizing robot on bridge with gyro or accelerometer

Quote:
Originally Posted by RoboMaster View Post
Apparently either can be used[/b] (gyro if you mount it sideways), though the accelerometer would seem to be the most logical choice because one of its main applications is to sense what direction "down" is. Is one easier/better to use? Program? Wire? More sensitive/doesn't wander as much? Doesn't matter?
The gyroscope and the accelerometer are useful for different tasks. The gyroscope gives accurate angular velocity data. The accelerometer gives an accurate angle off vertical but is sensitive to vibration and motion.

The most accurate system would use both sensors and a kalman filter (http://www.cs.unc.edu/~welch/kalman/) to combine the data. This will give you the best possible measure of your angular position, but will be hard to implement. I would try this if you want fast and accurate fully autonomous balancing.

If you just want to drive forward/backwards until the bridge tips, the accelerometer should be plenty. Just be sure to think about which readings you expect while the bridge tips.

There are a couple ways you could use the gyroscope alone, but I wouldn't.

For more information about the gyro and accelerometer see: http://www.usfirst.org/sites/default...meter-Gyro.pdf