How about dividing (casually) along a basic principle? I would like to see
a solar power, small, smart robot--One that runs all day, hides during rain
or dark, knows its boundaries, and stays away from the dog. But before we
design, say, the gear down on the wheels, lets debate a power supply. Start
from the top. If we decide on solar, then a small group of hell bent people
on thinking petrol is better can evolve a parellel design--and due to
independent thinking, help others in the process. Alternatively, if we
decide on AC, then there is a completely different design goal than from
solar--or 2 cycle engine for that matter.
I vote for dicussion on power supply. My design proposal calls for 1 medium
sized star in close proximity to the lawn to be mowed and a 1.0 m^2 solar
panel coule provide a constant voltage at a reasonable current. Reason:
The grass grows over a period of days, no hours. Let the mowbot take its
time, be efficient, and work continuous...not in 1 hour spurts as I imagine
a 2 cycle piston engine would.
Bill
William O'Reilly
pookie nospam at techinter.com