Thanks for the comments.
My outline, is an outline of the _Process_ of construction.
In my imagination contruction begins by defining the
goals and developing a strategy.
That's what we're doing now.
Then we'll build the platform and see if it works.
Add a microprocessor and get it working.
Get it to follow simple patterns.
Get it to recharge itself
Get it to recognize boundaries.
Then develop mowing strategies (based on performance
of the existing pieces.)
Then deal with advance topics like harrassment by neighborhood
children.
> Looks cute and has a winning personality. ;-)
I think this is actually very important.
Half the fun and acceptance will depend on its
'personality'.
A robot that mows so slowly you can't see it move,
is not very intersting, and will therefore have a
harder time gaining acceptance.
And considering this project will probably be a
LOT of work with little monetary reward I'd at
least like to end up with something that 'looks good'.
-Monta
---------------------------------
>
> MowBot - Creation Outline - Proposal for Comments
> Proposed Steps for the creation of MowBot
>
> Goal Definition:
> Autonomous mowing system. Decides on its own when to mow the lawn.
> Performs basic self servicing like clipping disposal, Recharging,
> cleaning, sharpening etc. Safe to people, pets, plants and property.
> Requires minimum of ifrastructure. Protects itself from damage.
> Quite and nonobtrusive to neigbors. Environmentaly safe.
> Looks cute and has a winning personality. ;-)
>
> Mobile Platform:
> 3 or 4 wheel(Pivioting mount) with diferential drive. Capable of
> traversing and oprating on a 45 degree slope. Sufficient ground
> clearance to not get hung up on small holes and bumps in the yard.
>
> Microprocessor Control:
> Sufficient processing power to perform necessary navigation, sensing,
> power control and goal directed functions.
>
> Simple Pattern Navigation
> Recharging Behavior
> Boundary/Position Recognition
> Mowing Algorithms
> Advanced Topics
-- -Monta Elkins--------------------------------------------------------- | "All that is necessary for evil to triumph is | | for good men to do nothing." -- Edmund Burke | | Monta nospam at bev.net ----------------- http://www.bev.net | | System Administrator - Blacksburg Electronic Village | ---------------------------------------------------------