The servoMan:
Is a simple low cost approach to a simple robotics humanoid
design. The servoMan, as its name implies, is a humanoid robotic
constructed from ten low cost RC (remote control) hobby servos.
Articulated at the arms, hips and legs. It's designed for the
beginner.
Everything is included, ready for action. The servoMan is controlled via a
desktop PC. The PC control software accepts simple one letter commands
in a DOS window,
and can record scripts to control the servoMan limbs for complex actions.
As of this writing, the servoMan design is mostly complete. The control
software and embedded firmware has been completed, and the last assignment to complete
is to fabricate the CPU control board and commit to metal the RC servo links or limbs.
For reliability and endurance.
The servoMan is for the "interested", in learning more about robotics and how to control
them. The servoMan is not "autonomous". It does not have inputs to control its actions.
Control of the servoMan is by running scripts, built and tested with the PC platform
application software. The servoMan receives all its control commands via a serial connection
to the PC platform, connected at a speed of 19.2 kilobaud.
The servoMan will be offered to the
"robotics enthusiast" that is up to and will accept the
challenge to make it walk. To help with the challenge, the
servoMan is provided with electromagnets on its feet. That can
also be removed. The electromagnets of course only work on metal
surfaces. The task of making the servoMan walk, has been reduced to writing a
script or scripts that move the servos in "concert". Or more exact, "tuning" the
servoMan motion, by writing into the script the commands that will working with
the inertia of the moving servoMan. The script commands will be reduced to; move
the servo(s) and wait(in miliSeconds), move the servo(s) again and wait ... This will keep the inertia
in check and under control.
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