Linux-Powered Robots and Flexible Programming

[jdong]

http://www.chiefdelphi.com/forums/sh...1&page=4&pp=15

This is a continuation of the "Let's Have Linux Robots" thread, which I thought would now appeal to the Programming folks a lot more.

After some summer hacking fun, I got a set of proof-of-concept scripts together. From the release notes:

1. IFI code that sends 2 joysticks, encoder readouts (with support for non-quadrature encoders), and accepts 4 PWMs
2. Hacked-together Python scripts that sport various nifty features:
* A record & playback solution: We've recorded 30-second tetra manipulating routines that played back flawlessly. The system uses millisecond-accurate timestamps to synchronize in case of lost packets during recording.
* A simple PID demo to be used with non-quadrature encoders or hall-effects: This needs tweaking to your robot. We will be writing up tweaking documentation for you to play with soon.

Note that this code is for proof of concept purposes: they're hack jobs to prove that the DFCP is technically feasible and a valuable addition to the robot! The ultimate goal is the OrionPluginInterface?, a TCP/IP-based, fully modular and layered protocol. This will allow you the ultimate in flexibility and compatibility, and even some cool possibilities while you're not competing (i.e. using a WiFi? enabled coprocessor and programming it remotely from the driver's station)

If you're interested in trying it (requires a Linux laptop), see http://adambots.gotdns.com/cgi-bin/v...rceCoProcessor for an overview, and http://adambots.gotdns.com/cgi-bin/v...onPreviewNotes for getting started directions.