Scope and definitions: [September 2003]
The idea behind this project is that
of allowing people owning this robot to implement their own artificial intelligence
experiments with it.
Since Cybot is a pretty robot with a number of sensors and actuators
it is a perfect platform where to develop experiments concerning
autonomous robotics. Unfortunately, when you buy Cybot, it doesn't allow
you to perform such experiments and to have a total control over it.
I will try to overcome those limitations in this project.
The main scope is to perform the required modifications to the robot that allows a full control of it. Also, some experiments
on neuro-evolution, localization and mapping and learning will be done.
The project will try to accomplish the following steps:
- Radio frequency communication with a Linux computer (no cables around!)
- Rechargeable batteries driven
- More sensors added (odometry, infrared sensors, mini camera, etc...)
- Ability to send control commands to the robot from the PC and from the robot to the PC.
- Ability to program the PIC brain system of the robot, directly from the PC to the robot, without taking the PIC out of the robot
- Ability to do on-line training of the robot, implementing neuro-evolution, genetic algorithms, etc..
- Start a discussion to find the
best way to program Cybot to have it as useful and autonomous as possible