Using the APDS 9960 Color Sensor - Can it read road signs?

 The Zoomies (Robotic Cars) will need to read roads signs of some sort.  The APDS-9600 sensor can read colors and we are going to explore this sensor to find out if it can read road signs here in ZoomTown.  In order to be suitable for our needs, it must be very reliable, repeatable, and it must read the sensor very quickly.  Follow along as we explore what this sensor can do, and how it is used.

Cheers!
Chris

#APDS9960 #PICO #ColorSensor

NEW! The website now makes it easier to download source files

Based on numerous requests, I created on a way to have a link directly to the source files for easier downloading.  

In the past, all downloadable files were in a long list that were difficult to relate to a specific video.  To resolve that I added a DOWNLOADING SUPPORT FILES button that downloads the specific file.  These links are on the MakingStuffWithChrisDeHut.com website.

Cheers!
Chris

Using the TCRT5000 Photo Reflective Sensor as a Line Following Sensor

In this video we are looking at how to use the TCRT5000 photo reflective sensor for line following.  Line following will be utilized by the Zoomie for guidance during all straight line driving.  We will cover the many aspects of the sensor including how I tested the sensors analog output over a variety of different line types.  

PICO / Micropython specific discussions include:

• Measuring read time of the sensor
• Writing testing reading to a file inside the PICO
• Graphing the analog readings to "see" the line transition

Cheers!
Chris

Constructing Powertrain Deck for the PICO Controlled Autonomous Robotic Car

The Powertrain Deck is a critical element for the Zoomie, the autonomous robot used in the ZoomTown experiment.  Chris explains the 'what' and 'why' of this subassembly and how it is the foundation for the rest of the Zoomie.

Cheers!
Chris

Motor Drive Selection for the Autonomous Robot used in the ZoomTown Experiment

 Selecting a motor drive for the N20 motors didn't require a lot of research.  In this video Chris explains why the TB6612FNG was a good choice based on the defined criteria for the autonomous robot.  

Cheers!
Chris

Motor selection for the Autonomous Robot used in the ZoomTown Experiment

Selecting a motor for the Zoomie is harder than ever with so many choices! As already covered a few episodes back, the design criteria for the Zoomie is pretty well defined.  In this video Chris talks through the choices and the reason why some are good and some are bad.  

Cheers!
Chris

A FAILURE ALREADY? Zoomie V1 is a failure.

This experimental robotic car failed in the prototype stage.  The design was certainly unique so it was worth the time to explore and experiment.   However, some designs are best left in the prototype stage, this video explains why it failed and more importantly, what was learned along the way.

Cheers!
Chris