Re: Sensors, Mobile Robots, Mechatronics (hands-on) (fwd)

Tucker Balch (tucker@cc.gatech.edu)
Thu, 6 Feb 1997 17:33:28 -0500 (EST)

A side note- Tom and I are designing & building new robots for this course
(similar but better than the rug warrior). We're designing them to be reliable
tough robots for future course use. Let me know if you're interested in more
details. --Tucker

> Special Topics Course - Spring Quarter
>
> ******************************************************
> **** EE 4813: Sensor-based Intelligent Machines ****
> ******************************************************
>
> 2-3-3 (1S, 2D)
>
> Prerequisites: Either
> CmpE 2500, EE 3280, and 3480 (EEs and CmpEs)
> OR
> EE 3710, EE 3741, and EE 3703 (MEs, others)
> OR
> Consent of the instructor (CoCs and other
> interested students encouraged to inquire -
> see below)
>
> Instructor: Thomas R. Collins, Ga Tech Research Institute
> tom.collins@gtri.gatech.edu
> Centennial Research Building, Room 553
> 894-2509
>
> Text: "Sensors for Mobile Robots," by H. R. Everett
>
> Lab reference: "Mobile Robots: Inspiration to
> Implementation," by Joseph L. Jones and
> Anita M. Flynn
>
> Meeting times: TTh 1:30-2:30, with open laboratory
> (available during many daytime hours)
>
> This course covers the theory and application of various sensors
> for intelligent machines, including optical, magnetic, infrared,
> and RF devices. An accompanying laboratory will provide hands-on
> experience with building and controlling small mobile robots to
> accomplish assigned tasks. The course material is also
> applicable to many other sensor applications, including
> automobiles, avionics, and consumer electronics.
>
> The intent of the prerequisites is to attract a mix of EEs,
> CmpEs, MEs, CoCs, and others who have various skills that will
> allow them to work together productively in the laboratory. The
> classroom material itself draws upon basic understanding of
> circuit theory, materials, and electromagnetic devices.
>
> Watch for Web site soon at http://spbtrc.gtri.gatech.edu/sensors
>
> Topical Outline
> ---------------
> Introduction
> Applications of Intelligent Sensing
> Mobile Robots
> Odometry Sensors for Dead Reckoning
> Potentiometers
> Synchros and Resolvers
> Optical Encoders
> Other Position and Velocity Approaches
> Triangulation Ranging
> Time of Flight
> Phase Shift and Frequency Modulation
> Interferometry
> Optical Focus
> Signal Intensity
> Orientation sensors
> Magnetic Compasses
> Mechanical Gyroscopes
> Optical Gyroscopes
> Beacon and Landmark-based Approaches
> RF (GPS, and localized systems)
> Ultrasound
> Laser, Optical, and Infrared
> Computer Vision Techniques
> Application-specific Sensors
> Tactile Sensors
> Sound and Vibration
> Optical, RF, and Infrared Motion Detection
> Temperature
> Computer Design Issues
> Interface Circuits
> Power Supply and Noise Considerations
> Processor Features and Selection
> Sensors and Intelligence
> Sensor-based Control
> Cognitive Models
>
>
> Tentative Laboratory Exercises
> ------------------------------
> 1. Position sensors: Potentiometers and Resolvers
> 2. Optical Encoders and Dead Reckoning
> 3. Infrared Detectors
> 4. Performance of Beacon-assisted Dead Reckoning
> 5. Microprocessor Interfacing and Control
> 6. Motor Driver Circuits and Closed-loop Control
> 7. Case Study (Part 1)
> 8. Case Study (Part 2)
> 9. Case Study (Part 3/Lab final)
>
> These exercises actually form a connected path to building a
> simple robot, the overall structure of which will be designed in
> advance.
>
> The Case Study (labs 7-9) will be a practical exercise in
> accomplishing a desired mission based in part on the requirements
> of the upcoming AAAI Mobile Robot Competition. Students will
> have the opportunity to continue this effort (voluntarily, not
> for credit) into the early summer, and a core group should be
> able to travel to the competition in Providence, Rhode Island.
>
> --
>
> Thomas R. Collins
> tom.collins@gtri.gatech.edu
> 894-2509
>
> --
>

-- 
--Tucker

------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tucker Balch, PhD Student, CoC Office 123A home 874-9129 tucker@cc.gatech.edu, http://www.cc.gatech.edu/grads/b/Tucker.Balch fx 894-9846 Mobile Robot Laboratory, Georgia Institute of Technology (404) 894-5613 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------