How to Plan & Structure a Large MicroPython Program

As we transition from construction to programming in Phase II of the Zoomtown experiment, it is time to carefully plan out the concept of the program.  In this video we will cover a lot about what the program needs to do, how I want it to operate, and highlight a few of the unknowns.  If you have not worked on moderately complex projects, this is a great opportunity to see one way of outlining it before you dig into the code.

Cheers!
Chris

#MicroPython #PICOW #Robotics

Final Assembly of the Zoomie. the PICO controlled Autonomous Robot

Completing the final mechanical and electrical assembly of the Zoomie (Raspberry Pi PICO controlled Autonomous Robot).  This is in preparation for Phase two of the ZoomTown experiment where we begin software development and testing.

Cheers!

Chris

#RaspberryPiPICO  #PICOW #autonomousrobot 

Episode 20 Completing the Power System with 18650 Cells and MP1584 DC-to-DC converters for the Zoomie.

Covered in this video is how the 18650 cells and three MP1584 DC to DC converter modules come together to power the Zoomie.  Not all sensors and devices operate at the same voltage, this is one solution to the problem.

Cheers!
Chris

#18650 #18650battery #DIYPCB

Making a Dual Voltage Power Supply for the Autonomous Robot

The Zoomie (Autonomous robot) needs multiple voltages to operate. To facilitate that, I created a PCB to hold the components in a space efficient manor.  The whole process of making the PCB, from design to soldering is presented.

Cheers!
Chris

#18650 #18650battery #DIYPCB

How to Make a Battery Case for two 18650 Cells

 How I made a dual cell holder for 18650 cells to be used in the Zoomie.  Being that the Zoomie is an autonomous robot, it will need to carry around its power source, in our case it will be two18650 cells.  Integrating the cell holder into the design of the zoomie is critical so that it is compact and allows for easy access to the cells for charging.

Cheers!
Chris

Recap and Update of the ZoomTown Experiment and What Has Changed

 It is time to review what sensors: A3141, TCRT5000, GP2Y0E03, AS5600 and other devices: N20 gear motor, and TB6612FNG motor drive have made the cut for the Zoomie (Autonomous Robot).  This video defines the baseline for the Zoomie to be used in the ZoomTown Experiment.

Cheers!

Chris

E015 Sensor Bracket Assembly For the Zoomie (Autonomous Robot)

With all the sensors selected for the Zoomie (Autonomous Robot) it is time to figure out how to mount them all to the chassis.  Keeping the size small, and mounting process simple is no trivial tasks.  Using Fusion 360 and the 3D printer made it possible.  These are the sensors to be mounted on one bracket: TCRT5000, A3141, AS5600, & GP2Y0E03.

Cheers!
Chris