Swarmbot Kobold
@ January 12, 2011
- Actuators / output devices: 2x 3.7g mis(t)ery servo
- Control method: autonomous
- CPU: atMega8
- Power source: 3.7V 400mAh lipo
- Programming language: AVR C
- Sensors / input devices: Reflective infared sensors, floor sensor, 38 Khz IR Detector
- Target environment: indoor flat surfaces
Because all robot kits cost enormous amounts of money I started to develop cheap and small robot – Kobold.
Small because smaller components are cheaper, sensors with small range are cheaper and so on. I tried to get the robot about 40% cheap and 60% small. The goal size is nano sumo size – 25mm x 25mm x 25mm. The absolute maximum cost is set on €30 per robot, the versions developed now cost about €15 to €20 each. All parts are from ebay and local electronics store. Only custom made part is circuit board.
Later I found out about swarmbot Formica what seems to deliver same thing I’m trying to achieve. The problems in here are weird microcontroller (MSP430) and too weak mechanics. I’m using Atmel 8bit Atmega88, because it is one of the most widespread MCUs. Also servos for motors. I chose servos because they are cheap, strong and come with their own controller.
@ Thu, 2011-01-13 09:47
can u post a video without
can u post a video without the load? i wonder how fast would it be?
@ Sat, 2011-01-15 00:54
Its not much faster. I have
Its not much faster. I have built new and faster mechanics but its still untested and not put together so no new videos for now. Next on my list is general post about electronics and then tutorial about hacking servos and maybe then some more videos.
@ Thu, 2011-01-13 03:21
swarmbots fascinate me
Like watching ants did as a kid. I've seen the formica bots and enjoyed reading and watching how they designed and built them. More information about yours would definately be intersting.
@ Thu, 2011-01-13 02:42
Tutorials.
I'm planning to put up tutorials of how to make such mechanics and so on. Stay tuned.
@ Wed, 2011-01-12 19:48
a question
Just a question , what the heck solder is doing on your bot?
@ Thu, 2011-01-13 00:55
re: a question
Showing weight I presume.
@ Thu, 2011-01-13 02:40
jep
Jep. I wanted to test the strength and durability of mechanics.
@ Thu, 2011-01-13 13:31
Cliff hanger
Don't stop the video now! It was right about to test its edge detection sensors...