BUGSY
Twins bots
Outdoor robot
Ir ArmBot
Barbot
Pocket-Bot
Wallie robot
Seeker Robot
XBot
Roverbot
Line Follower
TeMo - Telerobotics over Mobile packet data services
Webots
VIRTUAL FLOWER ROBOT
ROBOTICS PROJECTS
Intelligent Automotive Ignition System
INTRODUCTION
Electronic ignition is nothing new. Many “electronic”
ignition systems still rely on mechanical properties of
the distributor for RPM sensitive modifications
(advance/retard) and for actual spark “distribution”.
The proposed system uses a PIC12C508 for total
spark control on a 4-cylinder engine. This system could
be adapted to 6 and 8-cylinder engines by using a
“double-fire” (firing on power and exhaust strokes).
In this system, each cylinder has its own high voltage
coil, allowing a “hotter” spark than is supplied through
the arcing and inaccuracies of a mechanical distributor.
The PICmicro could use either a single or dual sensor
(IR) reading from a “code-wheel”. The dual system
would indicate top dead center of cylinder #1 (or some
other relevant timing mark) and single marks for each
cylinder. The single sensor system would only require
the TDC detector.
The PICmicro would time TDC detections, thereby
determining engine RPM. This RPM would be used in
a lookup table to determine the spark timing (single
sensor) or cylinder detect (dual). Each cylinder would
fire at the appropriate time.
System Benefits:
(over a mechanical design)
Inexpensive processing power means system can be
easily tuned for performance/emissions or other criteria.
Stronger, more accurate spark can be delivered.
No parts to wear, arc, or corrode.
Electronic ignition is nothing new. Many “electronic”
ignition systems still rely on mechanical properties of
the distributor for RPM sensitive modifications
(advance/retard) and for actual spark “distribution”.
The proposed system uses a PIC12C508 for total
spark control on a 4-cylinder engine. This system could
be adapted to 6 and 8-cylinder engines by using a
“double-fire” (firing on power and exhaust strokes).
In this system, each cylinder has its own high voltage
coil, allowing a “hotter” spark than is supplied through
the arcing and inaccuracies of a mechanical distributor.
The PICmicro could use either a single or dual sensor
(IR) reading from a “code-wheel”. The dual system
would indicate top dead center of cylinder #1 (or some
other relevant timing mark) and single marks for each
cylinder. The single sensor system would only require
the TDC detector.
The PICmicro would time TDC detections, thereby
determining engine RPM. This RPM would be used in
a lookup table to determine the spark timing (single
sensor) or cylinder detect (dual). Each cylinder would
fire at the appropriate time.
System Benefits:
(over a mechanical design)
Inexpensive processing power means system can be
easily tuned for performance/emissions or other criteria.
Stronger, more accurate spark can be delivered.
No parts to wear, arc, or corrode.
Free Flight Model Aircraft Dethermalizing Timer
INTRODUCTION
This application is for a Free Flight Dethermalizing
Timer for Model Aircraft. This is usually a mechanical or
fuse timer which spoils the lift of a model aircraft after 5
minutes. This is to prevent losing the aircraft in a strong
atmospheric thermal.
Using a bicolor LED and pushbuttons, a delay time of
between two and seven minutes in 10 second increments
is indicated B1 places the device in program mode and the LED
shows green. B2 then enters the number of 10 second
intervals with the LED flashing red for each interval in
groups of 5 for ease of reading. After the interval is
loaded, the timer is armed by pressing B2 again. When
armed the LED goes red. To start the timer, B2 is
pressed and held. The timer starts on release of B2.
When the unit times out, the 2N2222 is turned on, the
wire heats and contacts, and the control surface is
actuated and the 2N2222 is deactivated.
Nictol wire is a shape memory nickel titanium alloy
which contracts 3.5% of its length when heated. Nictol
wire also has a high resistance similar to nichrome
wire. Using 6-10 mil wire, 200 mA will heat the wire to
its activation temperature.
This application is for a Free Flight Dethermalizing
Timer for Model Aircraft. This is usually a mechanical or
fuse timer which spoils the lift of a model aircraft after 5
minutes. This is to prevent losing the aircraft in a strong
atmospheric thermal.
Using a bicolor LED and pushbuttons, a delay time of
between two and seven minutes in 10 second increments
is indicated B1 places the device in program mode and the LED
shows green. B2 then enters the number of 10 second
intervals with the LED flashing red for each interval in
groups of 5 for ease of reading. After the interval is
loaded, the timer is armed by pressing B2 again. When
armed the LED goes red. To start the timer, B2 is
pressed and held. The timer starts on release of B2.
When the unit times out, the 2N2222 is turned on, the
wire heats and contacts, and the control surface is
actuated and the 2N2222 is deactivated.
Nictol wire is a shape memory nickel titanium alloy
which contracts 3.5% of its length when heated. Nictol
wire also has a high resistance similar to nichrome
wire. Using 6-10 mil wire, 200 mA will heat the wire to
its activation temperature.
Digital PCM Radio Transmitter
INTRODUCTION
The PICmicro™ can be used in a pulse coded radio
transmitter. The PICmicro’s crystal oscillator serves as
the RF source. “On” pulses are generated by running in
a timing loop. “Off” pulses can be generated by sleeping
with the WDT running. The WDT prescaler can be
changed dynamically to generate variable width “Off”
pulses.
An I/O pin can turn off an optional final and/or multiplier.
The transmitted code can be fixed or encoded data
from I/O pins.The PICmicro’s oscillator serves to bias the final at
VDD/2. The 120W
resistor then sets the current in the
final. The tank can match the crystal or be an odd multiply.
The PICmicro™ can be used in a pulse coded radio
transmitter. The PICmicro’s crystal oscillator serves as
the RF source. “On” pulses are generated by running in
a timing loop. “Off” pulses can be generated by sleeping
with the WDT running. The WDT prescaler can be
changed dynamically to generate variable width “Off”
pulses.
An I/O pin can turn off an optional final and/or multiplier.
The transmitted code can be fixed or encoded data
from I/O pins.The PICmicro’s oscillator serves to bias the final at
VDD/2. The 120W
resistor then sets the current in the
final. The tank can match the crystal or be an odd multiply.
Switch Interface/ Motor Controller for Auto Drivers Power Window Control
INTRODUCTION
This idea is for the automotive industry. It serves as a
switch interface / motor controller for the driver’s side
power window control.
Using a PIC12C508 and an external comparator, one
could monitor the switches and control the motor necessary
for the operation of the driver’s power window.
Three switch inputs are required: 1) UP, 2) DOWN,
3) EXPRESS. Two outputs are required: drive_down
and drive_up. One interrupt or exception input is
required:Q rotor_stalled. Very simply:
if up,
then drive;
if down,
then drive_down;
if express,
then drive_down till not_stalled.
This idea is for the automotive industry. It serves as a
switch interface / motor controller for the driver’s side
power window control.
Using a PIC12C508 and an external comparator, one
could monitor the switches and control the motor necessary
for the operation of the driver’s power window.
Three switch inputs are required: 1) UP, 2) DOWN,
3) EXPRESS. Two outputs are required: drive_down
and drive_up. One interrupt or exception input is
required:Q rotor_stalled. Very simply:
if up,
then drive;
if down,
then drive_down;
if express,
then drive_down till not_stalled.
Automatic Volume Control That Will Work With Any TV/Remote
INTRODUCTION
The device would consist of a microphone connected
to a PIC12C67X. The user presses a learn button
which sets the volume level. As the volume changes,
the microphone senses the volume and feeds it into the
A/D port of the PICmicro™. The PICmicro™ sends an
infrared signal (similar to a remote) to the TV to raise or
lower the volume.
In learn mode, the PICmicro™ reads the microphone
level and stores it as the reference level. As it monitors
the volume, it compares the volume to the reference
level and adjusts accordingly. This ensures minimal
background noise
.
to a PIC12C67X. The user presses a learn button
which sets the volume level. As the volume changes,
the microphone senses the volume and feeds it into the
A/D port of the PICmicro™. The PICmicro™ sends an
infrared signal (similar to a remote) to the TV to raise or
lower the volume.
In learn mode, the PICmicro™ reads the microphone
level and stores it as the reference level. As it monitors
the volume, it compares the volume to the reference
level and adjusts accordingly. This ensures minimal
background noise
.
Water Level Sensor for Bathtub, Jaccuzi, or Pool
INTRODUCTION
The system monitors the water level using a
PIC12C67X. As water flows into the tub, the sensor
monitors the level. When the water reaches a predetermined
level the PICmicro shuts off the flow with a valve.
After the water is drained, the PICmicro™ resets the
valve for the next use. When it shuts off, the system
sounds an alarm. Also, a temperature sensor is incorporated
to prevent scalding
The system monitors the water level using a
PIC12C67X. As water flows into the tub, the sensor
monitors the level. When the water reaches a predetermined
level the PICmicro shuts off the flow with a valve.
After the water is drained, the PICmicro™ resets the
valve for the next use. When it shuts off, the system
sounds an alarm. Also, a temperature sensor is incorporated
to prevent scalding
IR Car Detector for Changing Lanes
INTRODUCTION
An IR coded signal is transmitted at the rear of a moving
car. At the same time an IR input is checked for the
same coded signal as just sent out. If the same signal
is found, then there is a car in the driver’s blind spot and
an LED is illuminated near the mirror. This system
would need to be implemented on both sides of the car.
The transmitter and receiver section need to be
shielded from each other.
Parts
1 PIC12C508
1 IR Receiver
1 IR Transmitter
An IR coded signal is transmitted at the rear of a moving
car. At the same time an IR input is checked for the
same coded signal as just sent out. If the same signal
is found, then there is a car in the driver’s blind spot and
an LED is illuminated near the mirror. This system
would need to be implemented on both sides of the car.
The transmitter and receiver section need to be
shielded from each other.
Parts
1 PIC12C508
1 IR Receiver
1 IR Transmitter
Infra Red Cordless Mouse
INTRODUCTION
Can anybody imagine that this little wonder,
PIC12C509, be used to control a cordless mouse?
Incredible! Just a handful of components, that's all! In
fact the circuit is small enough and perfectly suitable to
be fitted in the mouse housing with batteries. Current
consumption is minimized by the power reducing
SLEEP mode of the chip.
The circuit consists of two parts. A transmitter, which is
enclosed in the mouse, and the receiver, connected to
the PC via RS 232 link.
APPLICATION OPERATION
Transmitter
The PIC12C509 forms the heart of the circuit. Thanks
to the PIC12C509, it's use greatly simplifies hardware
design and the software. It senses the mouse movements,
mouse buttons and transmits the information to
the PC through infra red light emitting diodes (IR
LED's). The internal oscillator of the PIC12C509
enables one to use all of the I/O pins. The power-on
reset feature of the PIC12C509 rules out any need for
external reset circuitry, thereby saving one precious I/O
pin. Out of six I/O pins, one pin is configured to be output,
while the rest of the five pins are used as inputs.
The output pin drives two IR LED's through a MOSFET
BS170. Note that the MOSFET and one IR LED can be
saved and current consumption reduced by driving the
IR LED directly through the PIC12C509 pin at the
expense of limiting the range.
Three input pins out of the five are interfaced to the
three mouse buttons. Of course, two mouse buttons
can be used if desired. Flexibility of the design is evident.
Thanks to the PIC12C509 again! The remaining
two input pins are movement sensing inputs. Optical
sensing is used, which consists of an opto coupler with
a toothed wheel in between the LED and the phototransistor.
There are two such wheels, one for horizontal
movement and another for the vertical movement.
The wheels are mechanically coupled to the mouse ball
so that they rotate and electrical pulses are generated
with mouse movement. PIC12C509 senses the pulses
and converts the information into the appropriate format,
to be transmitted to the receiver via IR LED's. The
information, in the form of pulses, is then fed to the IR
LED through the driving MOSFET BS170. Thus the
information gets transformed into infra red light which is
transmitted to the receiver. When the microcontroller
transmits the motion information it produces exactly the
same pulses as would be produced by a regular
mouse.
Receiver
This is also a very simple circuit consisting of an IR
receiver, SFH505A, for instance and an op-amp
CA3140. The IR receiver receives the IR pulses and
transfers them into equivalent electrical pulses. The opamp
acts as an amplifier cum lavel shifter so as to make
these pulses compatible to RS 232 voltage levels. Note
that no extra power supply is needed for the receiver
circuit as it derives the power from the serial port itself.
Since this arrangement appears as a regular mouse to
the PC, there is no need to write device driver, and the
mouse can be used with the existing driver. Just plug
and play!
Can anybody imagine that this little wonder,
PIC12C509, be used to control a cordless mouse?
Incredible! Just a handful of components, that's all! In
fact the circuit is small enough and perfectly suitable to
be fitted in the mouse housing with batteries. Current
consumption is minimized by the power reducing
SLEEP mode of the chip.
The circuit consists of two parts. A transmitter, which is
enclosed in the mouse, and the receiver, connected to
the PC via RS 232 link.
APPLICATION OPERATION
Transmitter
The PIC12C509 forms the heart of the circuit. Thanks
to the PIC12C509, it's use greatly simplifies hardware
design and the software. It senses the mouse movements,
mouse buttons and transmits the information to
the PC through infra red light emitting diodes (IR
LED's). The internal oscillator of the PIC12C509
enables one to use all of the I/O pins. The power-on
reset feature of the PIC12C509 rules out any need for
external reset circuitry, thereby saving one precious I/O
pin. Out of six I/O pins, one pin is configured to be output,
while the rest of the five pins are used as inputs.
The output pin drives two IR LED's through a MOSFET
BS170. Note that the MOSFET and one IR LED can be
saved and current consumption reduced by driving the
IR LED directly through the PIC12C509 pin at the
expense of limiting the range.
Three input pins out of the five are interfaced to the
three mouse buttons. Of course, two mouse buttons
can be used if desired. Flexibility of the design is evident.
Thanks to the PIC12C509 again! The remaining
two input pins are movement sensing inputs. Optical
sensing is used, which consists of an opto coupler with
a toothed wheel in between the LED and the phototransistor.
There are two such wheels, one for horizontal
movement and another for the vertical movement.
The wheels are mechanically coupled to the mouse ball
so that they rotate and electrical pulses are generated
with mouse movement. PIC12C509 senses the pulses
and converts the information into the appropriate format,
to be transmitted to the receiver via IR LED's. The
information, in the form of pulses, is then fed to the IR
LED through the driving MOSFET BS170. Thus the
information gets transformed into infra red light which is
transmitted to the receiver. When the microcontroller
transmits the motion information it produces exactly the
same pulses as would be produced by a regular
mouse.
Receiver
This is also a very simple circuit consisting of an IR
receiver, SFH505A, for instance and an op-amp
CA3140. The IR receiver receives the IR pulses and
transfers them into equivalent electrical pulses. The opamp
acts as an amplifier cum lavel shifter so as to make
these pulses compatible to RS 232 voltage levels. Note
that no extra power supply is needed for the receiver
circuit as it derives the power from the serial port itself.
Since this arrangement appears as a regular mouse to
the PC, there is no need to write device driver, and the
mouse can be used with the existing driver. Just plug
and play!
Infra Red Monitor
APPLICATION OPERATION
The application of IR monitor is to check an IR
emitting device such as a TV Video remote controller.
This IR monitor requires only 7 resistors, 4 LED s, 1
miniature switch, 1 IR photo transistor and 1
PIC12C671 uC.
This circuit uses an analog converter from PIC12C671
LEDs.
OPERATION
1. Put an emitting device in front of the IR monitor
(from 1 inch to 2 feet).
2. Press the switch on the IR monitor once to
wake-up the micro-controller.
3. Press one key on the TV video controller and
watch the 4 monitor LEDs. The LEDs blink if
data is received, if all 4 LEDs stay off, no IR is
sensing. If high IR power is received, more
LEDs will be on. If IR monitor didn't receive anything
for 17 seconds, it will turn off (sleep mode).
Note: The OPTIC IR photo-transistor must be protected
from daylight source to avoid false bargraph level.
The application of IR monitor is to check an IR
emitting device such as a TV Video remote controller.
This IR monitor requires only 7 resistors, 4 LED s, 1
miniature switch, 1 IR photo transistor and 1
PIC12C671 uC.
This circuit uses an analog converter from PIC12C671
to measure the infra-red intensity from the IR photo transistor.
The intensity is displayed on the bargraphLEDs.
OPERATION
1. Put an emitting device in front of the IR monitor
(from 1 inch to 2 feet).
2. Press the switch on the IR monitor once to
wake-up the micro-controller.
3. Press one key on the TV video controller and
watch the 4 monitor LEDs. The LEDs blink if
data is received, if all 4 LEDs stay off, no IR is
sensing. If high IR power is received, more
LEDs will be on. If IR monitor didn't receive anything
for 17 seconds, it will turn off (sleep mode).
Note: The OPTIC IR photo-transistor must be protected
from daylight source to avoid false bargraph level.
Remote Temperature Sensor (RTS)
The purpose of this application is to measure temperature using the 8-pin PICmicro™ and SMT 160-30 temperature
sensors. The temperature range is -45°C to+127°C.
The Remote Temperature Sensor is part of a
system that can monitor the temperature in 8 different
points. Each RTS has its own address (0 to 7) and communicates
with the master by a simple protocol.
Because of the low consumption of the RTS it is powered
from the data line (something like Dallas bus). For
communication is used 9 bit Asynchronous serial protocol
with baud rate 9600. The 9-th bit indicates that the
byte is address.
The protocol is: Master sends address.
The RTS which address matches sends data
Master sends address every 100 ms. The time between
communications is used by the powering capacitor to
charge up, so in this time the line must be in 1.
The slave monitors the line and when it finds start bit
starts receiving. If the address matches, a function
MakeTemp is called. This function measures the temperature and places the result in ByteOut Next Byte- Out is sent out and the 9th bit is sent as 0 (Byte is Data).
sensors. The temperature range is -45°C to+127°C.
The Remote Temperature Sensor is part of a
system that can monitor the temperature in 8 different
points. Each RTS has its own address (0 to 7) and communicates
with the master by a simple protocol.
Because of the low consumption of the RTS it is powered
from the data line (something like Dallas bus). For
communication is used 9 bit Asynchronous serial protocol
with baud rate 9600. The 9-th bit indicates that the
byte is address.
The protocol is: Master sends address.
The RTS which address matches sends data
Master sends address every 100 ms. The time between
communications is used by the powering capacitor to
charge up, so in this time the line must be in 1.
The slave monitors the line and when it finds start bit
starts receiving. If the address matches, a function
MakeTemp is called. This function measures the temperature and places the result in ByteOut Next Byte- Out is sent out and the 9th bit is sent as 0 (Byte is Data).
Intelligent Customer care device
Intelligent Customer care device
Objective:
To develop a user friendly electronic product by applying engineering technology to satisfy the customer needs.
Block Diagram.
Transmitter Unit.
Receiver unit:
Purpose:
A customer can easily locate the product placed in a super market without the help any person and he/she can get the stoke , prize etc..
This can also use in library to find the position of books
Working :
The transmitter placed in the different places of the supermarket generate a random code by using microcontroller and the same is transmitted
The receiver receives the code and decode then gives display to the consumer.
Components Used:
PIC 16f73
7805 Voltage regulator IC
1N 4007 Diode
Transformer 12V-0-12V
1000uf, 24V Capacitor
.01uf Capacitor
Crystal 6 MHZ
RF Tranceiver Module
Objective:
To develop a user friendly electronic product by applying engineering technology to satisfy the customer needs.
Block Diagram.
Transmitter Unit.
Receiver unit:
Purpose:
A customer can easily locate the product placed in a super market without the help any person and he/she can get the stoke , prize etc..
This can also use in library to find the position of books
Working :
The transmitter placed in the different places of the supermarket generate a random code by using microcontroller and the same is transmitted
The receiver receives the code and decode then gives display to the consumer.
Components Used:
PIC 16f73
7805 Voltage regulator IC
1N 4007 Diode
Transformer 12V-0-12V
1000uf, 24V Capacitor
.01uf Capacitor
Crystal 6 MHZ
RF Tranceiver Module
Sample Interview Questions For B.Tech Freshers
Sample Interview Questions with Suggested Ways of Answering
Q. Tell me about yourself.
A. This is the dreaded, classic, open-ended interview question and likely to be among the first. It's your chance to introduce your qualifications, good work habits, etc. Keep it mostly work and career related.
Q. Why do you want to leave your current job? (Why did you leave your last job?)
A. Be careful with this. Avoid trashing other employers and making statements like, "I need more money." Instead, make generic statements such as, "It's a career move."
Q. What are your strengths?
A. Point out your positive attributes related to the job.
Q. What are your weaknesses?
A. Everybody has weaknesses, but don't spend too much time on this one and keep it work related. Along with a minor weakness or two, try to point out a couple of weaknesses that the interviewer might see as strengths, such as sometimes being a little too meticulous about the quality of your work. (Avoid saying "I work too hard." It's a predictable, common answer.) For every weakness, offer a strength that compensates for it.
Q. Which adjectives would you use to describe yourself?
A. Answer with positive, work-oriented adjectives, such as conscientious, hard-working, honest and courteous, plus a brief description or example of why each fits you well.
Q. What do you know about our company?
A. To answer this one, research the company before you interview.
Q. Why do you want to work for us?
A. Same as above. Research the company before you interview. Avoid the predictable, such as, "Because it's a great company." Say why you think it's a great company.
Q. Why should I hire you?
A. Point out your positive attributes related to the job, and the good job you've done in the past. Include any compliments you've received from management.
Q. What past accomplishments gave you satisfaction?
A. Briefly describe one to three work projects that made you proud or earned you pats on the back, promotions, raises, etc. Focus more on achievement than reward.
Q. What makes you want to work hard?
A. Naturally, material rewards such as perks, salary and benefits come into play. But again, focus more on achievement and the satisfaction you derive from it.
Q. What type of work environment do you like best?
A. Tailor your answer to the job. For example, if in doing your job you're required to lock the lab doors and work alone, then indicate that you enjoy being a team player when needed, but also enjoy working independently. If you're required to attend regular project planning and status meetings, then indicate that you're a strong team player and like being part of a team.
Q. Why do you want this job?
A. To help you answer this and related questions, study the job ad in advance. But a job ad alone may not be enough, so it's okay to ask questions about the job while you're answering. Say what attracts you to the job. Avoid the obvious and meaningless, such as, "I need a job."
Q. How do you handle pressure and stress?
A. This is sort of a double whammy, because you're likely already stressed from the interview and the interviewer can see if you're handling it well or not. Everybody feels stress, but the degree varies. Saying that you whine to your shrink, kick your dog or slam down a fifth of Jack Daniels are not good answers. Exercising, relaxing with a good book, socializing with friends or turning stress into productive energy are more along the lines of the "correct" answers.
Q. Explain how you overcame a major obstacle.
A. The interviewer is likely looking for a particular example of your problem-solving skills and the pride you show for solving it.
Q. Where do you see yourself five (ten or fifteen) years from now?
A. Explain your career-advancement goals that are in line with the job for which you are interviewing. Your interviewer is likely more interested in how he, she or the company will benefit from you achieving your goals than what you'll get from it, but it goes hand in hand to a large degree. It's not a good idea to tell your potential new boss that you'll be going after his or her job, but it's okay to mention that you'd like to earn a senior or management position.
Q. What qualifies you for this job?
Q. Why did you choose your college major?
A. The interviewer is likely fishing to see if you are interested in your field of work or just doing a job to get paid. Explain why you like it. Besides your personal interests, include some rock-solid business reasons that show you have vision and business sense.
Q. Tell me about yourself.
A. This is the dreaded, classic, open-ended interview question and likely to be among the first. It's your chance to introduce your qualifications, good work habits, etc. Keep it mostly work and career related.
Q. Why do you want to leave your current job? (Why did you leave your last job?)
A. Be careful with this. Avoid trashing other employers and making statements like, "I need more money." Instead, make generic statements such as, "It's a career move."
Q. What are your strengths?
A. Point out your positive attributes related to the job.
Q. What are your weaknesses?
A. Everybody has weaknesses, but don't spend too much time on this one and keep it work related. Along with a minor weakness or two, try to point out a couple of weaknesses that the interviewer might see as strengths, such as sometimes being a little too meticulous about the quality of your work. (Avoid saying "I work too hard." It's a predictable, common answer.) For every weakness, offer a strength that compensates for it.
Q. Which adjectives would you use to describe yourself?
A. Answer with positive, work-oriented adjectives, such as conscientious, hard-working, honest and courteous, plus a brief description or example of why each fits you well.
Q. What do you know about our company?
A. To answer this one, research the company before you interview.
Q. Why do you want to work for us?
A. Same as above. Research the company before you interview. Avoid the predictable, such as, "Because it's a great company." Say why you think it's a great company.
Q. Why should I hire you?
A. Point out your positive attributes related to the job, and the good job you've done in the past. Include any compliments you've received from management.
Q. What past accomplishments gave you satisfaction?
A. Briefly describe one to three work projects that made you proud or earned you pats on the back, promotions, raises, etc. Focus more on achievement than reward.
Q. What makes you want to work hard?
A. Naturally, material rewards such as perks, salary and benefits come into play. But again, focus more on achievement and the satisfaction you derive from it.
Q. What type of work environment do you like best?
A. Tailor your answer to the job. For example, if in doing your job you're required to lock the lab doors and work alone, then indicate that you enjoy being a team player when needed, but also enjoy working independently. If you're required to attend regular project planning and status meetings, then indicate that you're a strong team player and like being part of a team.
Q. Why do you want this job?
A. To help you answer this and related questions, study the job ad in advance. But a job ad alone may not be enough, so it's okay to ask questions about the job while you're answering. Say what attracts you to the job. Avoid the obvious and meaningless, such as, "I need a job."
Q. How do you handle pressure and stress?
A. This is sort of a double whammy, because you're likely already stressed from the interview and the interviewer can see if you're handling it well or not. Everybody feels stress, but the degree varies. Saying that you whine to your shrink, kick your dog or slam down a fifth of Jack Daniels are not good answers. Exercising, relaxing with a good book, socializing with friends or turning stress into productive energy are more along the lines of the "correct" answers.
Q. Explain how you overcame a major obstacle.
A. The interviewer is likely looking for a particular example of your problem-solving skills and the pride you show for solving it.
Q. Where do you see yourself five (ten or fifteen) years from now?
A. Explain your career-advancement goals that are in line with the job for which you are interviewing. Your interviewer is likely more interested in how he, she or the company will benefit from you achieving your goals than what you'll get from it, but it goes hand in hand to a large degree. It's not a good idea to tell your potential new boss that you'll be going after his or her job, but it's okay to mention that you'd like to earn a senior or management position.
Q. What qualifies you for this job?
Q. Why did you choose your college major?
A. The interviewer is likely fishing to see if you are interested in your field of work or just doing a job to get paid. Explain why you like it. Besides your personal interests, include some rock-solid business reasons that show you have vision and business sense.
BUGSY
Six-Legged mobile robot with obstacle detection whiskers and
Video Capture Camera
Functions: Moves around in all direction, changes paths when
whiskers are bumped with obstacles.. Can walk in tripod, wave,
and ripple gaits.. Can simulate cradle, swing motion, dizzy,
push- ups and even dance around- according to predefined program
script..
Parts used:
Electronics- 2 SSC's, Hobbico Servo motors,
Mechanical- locally fabricated materials.
Outdoor robot
Built mostly with recycling parts. Driven by 2 car wiper motors on about 17 Volts. Direction change
by a third wiper motor in the middle to change the angle of the two halves of the chassis; it works
with a steel rope that is wrapped around the motors shaft, can just be activated while driving
because of self-destruction risks.
The wheels are from a lawn mower. The rear wheels were fixed on a tilteable axe and fixed on spring
resorts.
Power supply by two 12V lead rechargeables batteries in series (7 Ah each).
A main PWM-circuit stabilizes the motor voltage two around 17 Volts.
Controlled by an 8052AH-BASIC-Evaluation board from Elektor magazine. Most other circuits self
developed and built, 2 kits assembled. Can receive commands by a TV IR-remote control, an RC5-code
receiver is used.
2 Bumpers with microswitches on the front end, two on the rear and two in the middle for the
direction motor.
2 IR-Diodes on the front an one IR-modulated receiver (38 kHz). Ultrasonic obstacle detection on the
rear.
It got some obstacle detecting and avoiding routines, but had lots of problems with his own weight.
The remote control was quite unuseable when the sun was shining.
Email: gklares@ara.lu
Ir ArmBot
The Ir Armbot is a simple robot arm driven by 2 standard servos
but controlled by an ir remote , sending serial information via
an ir diod to a reciever that uses a stamp 1 to decode the signal.
The code generator is also an stamp 1 , built in the remote.
Used parts :
2 9V batteries
1 6V batterie pack for the servos
3 switches
6 buttons , but 4 for the moment
1 stamp1 microcomputer
2 hitec servos HS300
2 small plastic boxes
1 Gripper
1 ir diod
1 ir reciever sharp GP1U5
Barbot
Barbot was first a photropic design but evolved into a
whisker driven unit. Barbot uses a PIC16C84 brain programed
through a PicBasic Pro compiler. For motion the Barbot uses
two hacked servos with RC airplane tires. The whisker
sensors ride on pingpong balls attached to pieces of
welding wire that pivot on a shaft. When the ping pong
balls drop (edge of the bar) or raise (the bar counter
lip) the ir beam is broken and the PIC turns the Barbot
the other direction. The ir sensors are from an old mouse.
Email: awilson@pacifier.com
Pocket-Bot
Pocket-Bot is a miniature low cost robot offering a standard
commercially available platform for virtually any miniature robotics
application. This advanced robot is driven by a long lasting 9 volt
alkaline battery, also powering an easily programmed on-board BASIC
STAMP II microcontroller. The Pocket-Bot has built in shaft encoders,
obstacle detect bumpers,independent left and right four wheel drive.
A large prototyping area allows users to easily add custom circuitry
for specialized applications. Pocket-Bot has proven to be ideal for
use in collective behavior research, AI studies and autonimous
robotics experimenting.
Size: .
Length 63 mm ( 2.5in )
Width 48 mm ( 1,7/8in )
Height 38 mm ( 1.5in )
Weight (w/o battery, with computer) 48 g.
Power: .
Drive and Computer One 9 volt alkaline battery
Typical Current Draw 200 mA
Typical Battery Life 1 hour
Microcontroller: .
Basic Stamp II ref: Parallax Inc. BS2-IC
I/O Pins 16 total, 8 non-dedicated
Ram (Variable Space) 256 bytes
EEPROM (Program Space) 2K bytes (tokenized)
Programming Language PBASIC
Documentation supplied with BS2-IC
Drive System: variable
Fastest 20 cm/s (approx.)
Slowest 4 cm/s (approx.)
Steering Differential
Drive Wheels 4
Encoder Resolution 3.0 counts/cm
Prototyping Area: .
Size 40 mm x 28 mm
# Through Holes at 0.1" Spacing 175
Email: support@divent.com
Twins bots
Description
Running on PIC16F84 & PIC16F877 Microchip microcontroller. These 2 robots are able to react
interactively with one another via the infra red sensors and sound detector. It can be preselect to
play football -infra red ball , play tag and self interactions. It is similar to Robo Soccer. The
robot with the PIC16F877 has self expression from the LEDs formation.
Specifications
PIC16F84 & PIC16F877
H-bridge amplifier,
IR- sensor and LED,
sound detector,
Contact detector,
2 Motors on Tamiya gearbox
6V+6V power supply.
Problems encountered
Having linearity drive due to limited drive count sensor.
Basically these 2 are practically workable minus the high current drain from the motor.
Wallie robot
Wallie is an attempt to make a very small and very simple robot which is still able to perform a
certain task. In this case that task is wall-following. As you can see on the picture, Wallie's body
is an old PC mouse. It uses differential steering to navigate across its world. Its two motors are
very small 5 volt gearbox motors. I have salvaged a tape pressing roll from an old cassette deck and
transformed it in a very small castor wheel. This works beatifully.
Wallie uses three infrared obstacle detection sensors to locate and follow a wall. These are mounted
on the front of the bot as can be seen on the picture. One pointing a little bit to the left, one
pointing forward and one pointing a little to the right. These sensors either see or don't see an
obstacle. There is no distance measuring capability available. When an object comes within
approximately 7 cm of the sensor, it will trigger.
The brain of wallie is an ATMEL AT90S2313 microcontroller. It is programmed with the AVR port of the
linux GCC C-compiler.
The wall following procedure is as followes: First, Wallie waits until it gets offered a wall to
follow. In other words: You have to put him so close to the wall that the sensors of the bot see it.
Wallie will then start to drive forwards a little bit in the opposite direction of the wall. When
the distance to the wall gets to great, the sensor pointing to the wall will not see it anymore.
Wallie will then start to drive towards the wall again until he sees it again. Then he starts to
move away from the wall again etc. This way he will follow the wall without touching it. When it
does not find the wall within a short period, this means the wall has moved sharply away from the
bot. Wallie will then start to turn sharpy towards the direction he expects the wall to be until it
is found again. The second special situation is when the sensor facing the wall and the sensor
facing forwards see the wall. This means the wall has made a sharp turn towards the robot. Then
wallie will react by turning away from the wall until only the sensor facing the wall sees the wall.
The third special situation is when all three sensors see the wall. This means Wallie has driven up
a dead end or a very sharp edge in the wall. He will then start to turn on the spot until the sensor
pointing to the front does not see the wall any more. He then faces in the correct direction again.
Seeker Robot
The goal of Seeker is to look around for human beings, drive towards the first it sees and then try
to follow that person. Seeker locates humans by using a Passive Infrared (PIR) sensor. This sensor
is capable of detecting the heat signature of a human being. It is mounted inside the white cone on
the sensor unit at the front of the robot. The white cone holds a freshnell lens to focus the
infrared (heat) radiation on the sensor element. The sensor unit also holds tree SHARP GP2D02
infrared distance measurement units. These sensors take over when Seeker gets close to the person it
wants to follow. This cannot be done with the PIR sensor because it is not accurate and directional
enough at close range. The sensors of Seeker are mounted on a pan/tilt unit. This enables Seeker to
look around and point its sensors at any object of interest in its field of view.
The drive train of Seeker is the same as that of Roamer and Wallie. It consists of two propelled
front wheels and a castor wheel at the back, enabling the bot to navigate the world by using
differential steering.
The brain of seeker is an ATMEL AVR 90S8535 microcontroller. It is programmed in C using the AVR
port of the linux GCC C-compiler.
The procedure to locate and follow humans is as follows: At powerup, Seeker starts to turn on the
spot. When it detects a heat signature, it drives towards it. When the heat signature is lost during
the approach of the target, it starts turning in a circle again to relocate the heat signature. When
Seeker gets close enough to the target, the infrared distance measurement sensors take over. In
order to follow the target, the distance measured by the left sensor is compared to that of the
right sensor (the third sensor is not used right now). If the left sensor measures a greater
distance than the right sensor, it concludes the target is located on its right side. If its the
other way around, it assumes the target is on the left. It will then move its sensor head in the
direction of the target. The motor controller of Seeker is programmed to drive in the direction the
sensor head is looking, and therefore the whole robot will start following the target. If seeker
gets close to the target he will stop. If the person being followed starts to move towards Seeker he
will start to drive backwards to avoid being stepped on. If Seeker loses the target he will start
looking for a new heat signature.
XBot
The robot
was equipped with several sensors while two modified for continuous rotation servos were used to
move it around. The robot's main parts are listed below:
Microcontroller: Atmega 8535 running at 16 MHz
* 4 Infa-Red proximity detectors
(for obstacle detection and avoidance)
* 1 Rotating ultrasonic ranging module
(for measuring distances. +/-90 degrees rotation)
* 2 Wheel encoders
(to accurately measure wheel rotation)
* 1 PIR sensor
(to detect human presence)
* 1 "Line Sensor"
(Line following)
* 1 Radio Data Link
(for telemetry purposes)
* 1 Alphanumeric LCD (20x4)
(mainly for debugging purposes)
*1 Battery level sensor
*3 Push buttons
(to provide a basic user input unit)
Although several navigation routines were implemented the main effort was to enhance the robot with
a self-localization ability (dead-reckoning)
E-card
An e-card is similar to a postcard or greeting card, with the primary difference being that it is created using digital media instead of paper or other traditional materials. E-cards are made available by publishers usually on various Internet sites, where they can be sent to a recipient, usually via e-mail. It also considered more environment friendly compared to traditional paper cards. E-card businesses are considered environmentally friendly because their carbon footprint is generally much lower compared to paper card companies and because paper is not used in the end product.
E-cards are digital "content", which makes them much more versatile than traditional greeting cards. For example unlike traditional greetings, e-cards can be easily sent to many people at once or extensively personalized by the sender. Conceivably they could be saved to any computer or electronic device or even viewed on a television set, however e-card digital content has not yet progressed as far as digital video or digital audio in terms of varied usage.
Full report link: download report
E-cards are digital "content", which makes them much more versatile than traditional greeting cards. For example unlike traditional greetings, e-cards can be easily sent to many people at once or extensively personalized by the sender. Conceivably they could be saved to any computer or electronic device or even viewed on a television set, however e-card digital content has not yet progressed as far as digital video or digital audio in terms of varied usage.
Full report link: download report
Roverbot
Description
When the robot hits something on the right side of the bumper, the right push button
is depressed. This makes the robot stop, back up, turn to the left, and continue moving forward. If
the robot collides with an object on the left side of the bumper, the left push button is hit. The
robot stops, backs up, turns to the right, and continues going forward. Because of the bumper, the
robot can maneuver around obstacles and keep moving without any human interference.
Line Follower
Functions
The buggy features two main wheels positioned opposite each other, and independently driven by
stepper motors. The chassis is balanced with a simple peg that skids along the ground.
The motors and sensors plug into two circuit boards mounted in the buggy chassis, and this in turn
is linked by means of umbilical ribbon cable, to an input/output port used in conjunction with a
Sinclair ZX81.
The ZX81 provides the intelligence to make the buggy follow a black line (electrical black
insulation tape). It could be argued that a basic line follower does not really require the use of a
computer, with the buggy being made to operate properly by getting the sensors to control the motors
through more direct electronic means. However, using a computer allows easy behaviour refinement by
software changes. For example after the basic line following was implemented the buggy was
programmed to be able to negotiate branches in the line.
Specifications
The chassis is built from a combination of Meccano® and Perspex®. The Meccano enabled a chassis to
be quickly constructed, and the Perspex facilitated the non Meccano parts (stepper motors and
wheels) to be easily incorporated into the design.
The robot electronics comprised two circuit boards - the driver board and the sensor board. These
boards are stacked one over the other.
The step resolution of the stepper motors is 1.8 degrees. To turn this step size into a smaller
wheel travel, a reduction gearing comprising a small cog on the motor shaft and a much larger cog
connected on the wheel is utilised on each motor drive.
Driver board
Two SAA1027 stepper motor drive ICs are employed on the driver board, each one to control a four
phase stepper motor. The ICs simplify control of the stepper motors by requiring just a digital
direction signal (clockwise/anti clockwise) and digital clock signal (advance step) for each motor.
The SAA1027 ICs require a 12v power supply, and 12v control signals. LM324 quad operational
amplifiers are used to level shift the 5v TTL levels from the ZX81 up to the 12v control signals.
Sensor Board
To enable the buggy to follow a black line, two optical sensors (TIL81) are used. They are
positioned at the front underside of the buggy. The sensors are separated by a distance of 1cm.
Additionally an infra-red LED (TLN1 10) is placed between the sensors, so that they are less
effected by the surrounding ambient light. Depending on the surface either black or white the
infrared beam is either absorbed or reflected respectively.
The sensor board comprises two identical circuits each connected to a corresponding optical sensor.
Each circuit converts the optical sensor output from an analogue value to a 5v TTL signal that can
be read by the ZX81 via the input port.
Electronic Billing with full report
Electronic Billing (General) is the electronic delivery and presentation of financial statements, bills, invoices, and related information sent by a company to its customers. Electronic billing is referred to by a variety of terms,including the following:
EBPP — Electronic Bill Presentment & Payment (typically focused on business-to-consumer billing and payment)
EIPP — Electronic Invoice Presentment and Payment (typically focused on business-to-business billing and payment)
"e-billing"
"e-invoicing"
"electronic invoicing"
While there are current efforts to standardize systems for electronic billing and invoicing, there is currently a wide variety of options for businesses and consumers. Most fall into one of two categories:
CSPs (customer service providers) which allow a business to invoice clients electronically
bank aggregators, which allow consumers to pay multiple bills, typically through their bank
Increasing acceptance of e-billing by consumers and the business community (according to Kiplinger magazine, 77% of business owners now favor electronic billing),as well as increased concern for security and the environment, is speeding up the shift to electronic billing from paper billing
report4all@gmail.com
EBPP — Electronic Bill Presentment & Payment (typically focused on business-to-consumer billing and payment)
EIPP — Electronic Invoice Presentment and Payment (typically focused on business-to-business billing and payment)
"e-billing"
"e-invoicing"
"electronic invoicing"
While there are current efforts to standardize systems for electronic billing and invoicing, there is currently a wide variety of options for businesses and consumers. Most fall into one of two categories:
CSPs (customer service providers) which allow a business to invoice clients electronically
bank aggregators, which allow consumers to pay multiple bills, typically through their bank
Increasing acceptance of e-billing by consumers and the business community (according to Kiplinger magazine, 77% of business owners now favor electronic billing),as well as increased concern for security and the environment, is speeding up the shift to electronic billing from paper billing
report4all@gmail.com
Online E- banking (or Internet banking) project abstract For Computer science B.Tech Students
Online banking (or Internet banking) allows customers to conduct financial transactions on a secure website operated by their retail or virtual bank, credit union or building society.
Features
Online banking solutions have many features and capabilities in common, but traditionally also have some that are application specific.
The common features fall broadly into several categories
Transactional (e.g., performing a financial transaction such as an account to account transfer, paying a bill, wire transfer... and applications... apply for a loan, new account, etc.)
Electronic bill presentment and payment - EBPP
Funds transfer between a customer's own checking and savings accounts, or to another customer's account
Investment purchase or sale
Loan applications and transactions, such as repayments
Non-transactional (e.g., online statements, check links, cobrowsing, chat)
Bank statements
Financial Institution Administration - features allowing the financial institution to manage the online experience of their end users
ASP/Hosting Administration - features allowing the hosting company to administer the solution across financial institutions
Features commonly unique to business banking include
Support of multiple users having varying levels of authority
Transaction approval process
Wire transfer
Features commonly unique to Internet banking include
Personal financial management support, such as importing data into personal accounting software. Some online banking platforms support account aggregation to allow the customers to monitor all of their accounts in one place whether they are with their main bank or with other institutions.
Features
Online banking solutions have many features and capabilities in common, but traditionally also have some that are application specific.
The common features fall broadly into several categories
Transactional (e.g., performing a financial transaction such as an account to account transfer, paying a bill, wire transfer... and applications... apply for a loan, new account, etc.)
Electronic bill presentment and payment - EBPP
Funds transfer between a customer's own checking and savings accounts, or to another customer's account
Investment purchase or sale
Loan applications and transactions, such as repayments
Non-transactional (e.g., online statements, check links, cobrowsing, chat)
Bank statements
Financial Institution Administration - features allowing the financial institution to manage the online experience of their end users
ASP/Hosting Administration - features allowing the hosting company to administer the solution across financial institutions
Features commonly unique to business banking include
Support of multiple users having varying levels of authority
Transaction approval process
Wire transfer
Features commonly unique to Internet banking include
Personal financial management support, such as importing data into personal accounting software. Some online banking platforms support account aggregation to allow the customers to monitor all of their accounts in one place whether they are with their main bank or with other institutions.
iHabitat - A home automation, security and monitoring system
The iHabitat system consists of several nodes installed/placed around the house. Each node is capable of serveral functions.
The functionality is catageoried into different groups: 1. Communucation functionality gives a node the ability communicate with other nodes or with the outside world (using the internet / phone line / SMS) 2. Sensor functionality enables a node to measure phyisical world parameters like temprature, power consumption etc. 3. Controller functionality enable a node to control equipment around the house. This can including switching on/off appliances, opening/locking a door. 4. UI functionality enable nodes to interface with the user using physical interface and virtual interface. A physical interface could be a LCD display, keypad, LEDs etc. Virtual interfaces include web / mobile based interfaces. 5. Storage functionality enables node to store and log data. Each node atleast one type of communication functioanlity. All nodes are capabable of communication with each other. Gateway nodes are capable of connection to the outside world over the internet, using the phone line or SMS. Bridge nodes are capabable of converting one type of commuication to another (e.g. WiFi to Zigbee). This page is a first draft describing the overall systems and what is expected out of it.
Objectives: (1) Intelligence: iHabitat shall be able to take decisions on its own based on its learning from its user behaviour. (2) Easy to deploy and use. (3) Open source (4) Strong focus on communication within the network and to the outside world using the Internet.
User interface: 1. Web based interface (remote administration and monitoring possible) 2. LCD based touch panels around the house (cost too high, only plain LCD displays for now) 3. Regular wall switches for lighting would still work, no need necessary use the interfaces mentioned above 4. Interactive voice based interface (not a priority right now)
Communucation functionality: 1. ADSL for primary Internet connectivity, distributed across the house over WiFi, repeater to extend range. 2. Mobile packet data services (GPRS/EDGE) as backup internet Internet connectivity 3. Sensors and appliance connectivity over Zigbee (also to consider IP over IEEE 802.14.5 wireless PAN) 4. WiFi to Zigbee bridges for easy access to all appliances from the Internet. 5. Security alerts to be communicated over SMS and voice calls to predefined numbers 6. Some nodes of the system to have Infrared to enable the system to control appliances with IR remote controls.
Sensor functionality: 1.Human presence detection based on PIR, ultrasonic, infrasonicm, visual sensors 2. Sensor network for indoor/outdoor temperature and electricity usage collection
Security: 1. CCTV type IP based camera survillance system 2. Intruder alarm based on laser trips and PIR for secondary confirmation.
Storage Functionality: 1. Solid state storage (flash memory) for all logs, records. 2. Critical information also to be updated to the Internet.
Information updates from the internet 1. View RSS feeds on screens across the home 2. User able to set alerts for events (such as incoming mail)
Power supply: 1 Electrical mains, some nodes to have UPS backup. 2 Small nodes to run on batteries and if possible on solar cells. 3 Battery
Time synchronization: 1. From NTP servers on the Internet
The functionality is catageoried into different groups: 1. Communucation functionality gives a node the ability communicate with other nodes or with the outside world (using the internet / phone line / SMS) 2. Sensor functionality enables a node to measure phyisical world parameters like temprature, power consumption etc. 3. Controller functionality enable a node to control equipment around the house. This can including switching on/off appliances, opening/locking a door. 4. UI functionality enable nodes to interface with the user using physical interface and virtual interface. A physical interface could be a LCD display, keypad, LEDs etc. Virtual interfaces include web / mobile based interfaces. 5. Storage functionality enables node to store and log data. Each node atleast one type of communication functioanlity. All nodes are capabable of communication with each other. Gateway nodes are capable of connection to the outside world over the internet, using the phone line or SMS. Bridge nodes are capabable of converting one type of commuication to another (e.g. WiFi to Zigbee). This page is a first draft describing the overall systems and what is expected out of it.
Objectives: (1) Intelligence: iHabitat shall be able to take decisions on its own based on its learning from its user behaviour. (2) Easy to deploy and use. (3) Open source (4) Strong focus on communication within the network and to the outside world using the Internet.
User interface: 1. Web based interface (remote administration and monitoring possible) 2. LCD based touch panels around the house (cost too high, only plain LCD displays for now) 3. Regular wall switches for lighting would still work, no need necessary use the interfaces mentioned above 4. Interactive voice based interface (not a priority right now)
Communucation functionality: 1. ADSL for primary Internet connectivity, distributed across the house over WiFi, repeater to extend range. 2. Mobile packet data services (GPRS/EDGE) as backup internet Internet connectivity 3. Sensors and appliance connectivity over Zigbee (also to consider IP over IEEE 802.14.5 wireless PAN) 4. WiFi to Zigbee bridges for easy access to all appliances from the Internet. 5. Security alerts to be communicated over SMS and voice calls to predefined numbers 6. Some nodes of the system to have Infrared to enable the system to control appliances with IR remote controls.
Sensor functionality: 1.Human presence detection based on PIR, ultrasonic, infrasonicm, visual sensors 2. Sensor network for indoor/outdoor temperature and electricity usage collection
Security: 1. CCTV type IP based camera survillance system 2. Intruder alarm based on laser trips and PIR for secondary confirmation.
Storage Functionality: 1. Solid state storage (flash memory) for all logs, records. 2. Critical information also to be updated to the Internet.
Information updates from the internet 1. View RSS feeds on screens across the home 2. User able to set alerts for events (such as incoming mail)
Power supply: 1 Electrical mains, some nodes to have UPS backup. 2 Small nodes to run on batteries and if possible on solar cells. 3 Battery
Time synchronization: 1. From NTP servers on the Internet
TeMo - Telerobotics over Mobile packet data services
TeMo is a tele-operated mobile internet robot. While other internet robots mostly use WiFi (or a nearby PC with an internet connection), TeMo connects to the internet using Mobile packed data services (e.g. GPRS / EDGE / UMTS / HSDPA). The advantage is virtually unlimited mobility for the robot.
Simply put, TeMo is a robot that can
Move around and do stuff (since it has tank tracks and a robotic arm)
Can be controlled from any where in the world (since it has Internet connectivity)
Can boldly go where no robot has gone before !! (since it used mobile packet data services for Internet connectivity)
TeMo is controlled using an Ajax based webage. The webpage is served by a tiny webserver running on a mobile phone that is mounted on the robotic platform. TeMo is also capable of sending pictures in realtime to the user terminal (and possibly also video in the near future).
Lets look at TeMo in detail. TeMo is made up of the following parts:
Lego (technic) blocks for the basic mechanical structure.
5 servo motors for mobilty, torso rotation and arm control.
A microcontroller that controls the motors, listens for commands from the webserver
A standard mobile phone that runs a tiny Webserver, connects to the Internet using GPRS/EDGE/UMTS and communicates with the microcontroller over Infrared.
The following diagram shows how the overall system works.
Simply put, TeMo is a robot that can
Move around and do stuff (since it has tank tracks and a robotic arm)
Can be controlled from any where in the world (since it has Internet connectivity)
Can boldly go where no robot has gone before !! (since it used mobile packet data services for Internet connectivity)
TeMo is controlled using an Ajax based webage. The webpage is served by a tiny webserver running on a mobile phone that is mounted on the robotic platform. TeMo is also capable of sending pictures in realtime to the user terminal (and possibly also video in the near future).
Lets look at TeMo in detail. TeMo is made up of the following parts:
Lego (technic) blocks for the basic mechanical structure.
5 servo motors for mobilty, torso rotation and arm control.
A microcontroller that controls the motors, listens for commands from the webserver
A standard mobile phone that runs a tiny Webserver, connects to the Internet using GPRS/EDGE/UMTS and communicates with the microcontroller over Infrared.
The following diagram shows how the overall system works.
Creating A Quality Resume
Creating A Quality Resume: 8 Common Mistakes to Watch Out For
When writing your resume, you need to make it shine to stand out from other submitted resumes. Mistakes do NOT make a resume shine. There are some errors that many people make when writing theirs. Be careful not to make them, yourself.
Writing a quality resume is one of the most vital parts of finding new employment. It's the primary way to initially capture the attention of the company you want to work for. Any mistakes they spot means your resume is going one place, fast: the trash. Here are some to watch out for:
- Using pronouns: Avoid using "I", "me", or "my". It personalizes the resume, and this is not a good thing. Also avoid "you", "your", "them", "their", and so forth.
- Writing "RESUME" on top of your resume: This is redundant, and will draw negative attention.
- Starting with an "objective": Many people do this, but it's considered old-fashioned. It can be used for new graduates starting their career. For anyone else, a "Summary" should be used instead.
- Using a Microsoft template: They are templates - realize how many people have Microsoft Word and use these. Hiring managers see these cross their desk every day. If the hiring manager has 200 resumes to look at and 190 of these use a Microsoft template, how will you get yours noticed if you use one, too?
- Listing "duties and responsibilities": Does your resume list these for your old positions? It's boring! You need to sell yourself; list quality accomplishments, like saving a company $500,000 a year. Boosting sales by 50%. This shows achievement, and makes you more attractive.
- Giving personal information: With nondiscrimination laws in this day and age, an employer being able to put a face on the employee before hiring can be awkward. Be careful about listing personal interests, number of children, height, weight, nationality, spouse's name, etc.
- Limiting your resume to one page: This does not work. Especially with several years of experience. The employer wants information - write two, three, even four pages if you need to.
- The little things: Check for typos! A resume with typos shows someone who does NOT put much effort into their work. At the very least use a spell-checker. Having a friend double-check your work is also a good idea.
This resume error checklist brought to you from a review on resume resources at ReviewsOfStuff.com. Interested to find out what other choices you have when writing your resume? This, plus effective methods to get your resume distributed at Resume.ReviewsOfStuff.com.
Educational purposes Robot :Webots
Webots uses the ODE (Open Dynamics Engine) for detecting of collisions and simulating rigid body dynamics. The ODE library allows one to accurately simulate physical properties of objects such as velocity, inertia and friction.
A large collection of freely modifiable robot models comes in the software distribution. In addition, it is also possible to build new models from scratch. When designing a robot model, the user specifies both the graphical and the physical properties of the objects. The graphical properties include the shape, dimensions, position and orientation, colors, and texture of the object. The physical properties include the mass, friction factor, as well as the spring and damping constants.
Webots includes a set of sensors and actuators frequently used in robotic experiments, e.g. proximity sensors, light sensors, touch sensors, GPS, accelerometers, cameras, emitters and receivers, servo motors (rotational & linear), position and force sensor, LEDs, grippers, gyros and compass.
The robot controller programs can be written in C, C++, Java, Python and MATLAB. The AIBO, Nao and E-puck robot models can also be programmed with the URBI language (URBI license required).
Webots offers the possibility to take PNG screen shots and to record the simulations as MPEG (Mac/Linux) and AVI (Windows) movies. Webots worlds are stored in .wbt files which have a format very similar to VRML. It is also possible to import and export Webots worlds or objects in the VRML format. Another useful feature is that the user can interact with a running simulation at any time, i.e. it possible to move the robots and other object with the mouse.
Webots is used in several online robot programming contests. The Robotstadium[1] competition is a simulation of the RoboCup Standard Platform League. In this simulation two teams of Nao play soccer with rules similar to regular soccer. The robots use simulated cameras, ultrasound and pressure sensors. In the Rat's Life[2] competition two simulated e-puck robots compete for energy resources in a Lego maze. Matches are run on a daily basis and the results can be watched in online videos.
Light Sensor VIRTUAL FLOWER ROBOT
In this project we build a robot that has two optical light sensors and turns its head in the direction of light. The head is the only moving part of the robot and it is controlled by a gearbox manufactured by Tamiya. The light sensors are formed by two CdS photoresistors available from RadioShack. I used two smallest ones from the package of 5 photoresistors available there. The cell diameter is about 5mm, the maximum dark resistance is about 14M and the minimum light resistance is about 0.5K. The daylight resistance in my room is about 50K.Light sensor Motor and gear
The first prototype
The photoresistors are mounted on the robot head which in turn is attached to the gear axe. I used a paper strip separating the photoresistors and its optimal length in my setting is 1in measured from the photoresistors. The separator is needed to shadow one of the photoresistors when the light source is moving. For simplicity, the head can move in a 2-dim horizontal plain only, thus making a difference with a real sunflower. The head is formed by a small breadboard ,which for now has just the photoresistors and the paper separator mounted on it.
The light sensors (L and R on the schematic) are connected to the PIC which periodically measures their resistance and controls the motor accordingly. To measure the resistance of the photocells I use a classic RC-chain and measure the time of charging a capacitor, which for a fixed C is proportional to R. The direction of the motor rotation is controlled by the classic H-bridge composed entirely from NPN Darlington transistors TIP120. These transistor structures contain the diodes protecting them from the high voltage caused by inductive load. The bases of the bridge transistors are connected to PIC. If the RB6 and RB7 outputs are both 0, the motor is not rotating. If one of them is 0 and the other one is 1, the motor is rotating in the corresponding direction. The situation when both outputs are 1 is prevented by the software, since in this case the 3V battery would be short cut.Schematic Layout
This is just the first prototype of the design and I use LCD for tuning and debugging. The LCD displays the numbers coming out of the resistance measurement. The larger numbers correspond to a darker resistance. The built-in PIC program does not allow the numbers to exceed 255. The minimum numbers corresponding to lighting the device with a desktop 60W lamp is about 30, so we have almost the full range of the light intensity measurements of 30 - 255. The motor starts to move if the absolute difference between the numbers is larger than 15, which is defined experimentally. This constant defines how much the light source can move before the robot starts following it. The larger is the constant, the less is the accuracy of following the light. The sensor resistance is measured approximately every 80msec, which is also near optimal for the gear ratio 719:1 and the motor voltage in the range 3 - 5V. Increasing the measurement time up to 250msec causes the head moving back and force several times before it finally stabilizes.
The embedded program source for the first prototype is photo1.asm
The Second prototype
The LCD is actually not needed in a real device and can be excluded. This decreases the number of interface pins down to 6. Hence, a smaller PIC can be used as it is shown on the updated schematics. This PIC 12F675 has built-in 4MHz RC-oscillator which further simplifies the circuit. Also, smaller transistors can be used to drive the motor. However, they do require the diodes protecting them from the high voltage peaks caused by the motor.
Excluding the LCD significantly simplifies the program. One needs, however, to rename th output ports and other registers according to the PIC specs. The 12F675 has built-in comparators and ADC that are not used in this design and must be turned off. Also, all I/O ports must be setup for the digital mode. Finally, the PIC configuration fuses have some extra bits.
The embedded program source for the second prototype is photo2.asm
The Final Design
The robot electronics is assembled on a small board available form RadioShack. To simplify the power supply I added 3 silicon diodes 1N4003 that drop the 5V voltage down to about 3V for the motor. This way the entire unit can be powered up from a single 5V source. The maximum current consumption is about 200ma when the motor is on and just a couple of milliamperes when it is off.
The code is practically the save as the one for the second prototype with just a few changes. Two procedures that measure the light intensity are merged into one and I set up manually all PIC control registers instead of relying on their default values after power reset.
The embedded program source for the final design is photo3.asm
Things to consider
The used way for measuring the resistance if not optimal. It takes 2 pins of PIC - one for charging/discharging the cap and one for actually measuring a voltage. This can be accomplished with just one PIC pin. For this disconnect the right (on schematic) end of the cap and attach it to +5V. Rising up the voltage on PIN GP3 (in this case it should be configured for output) will discharge the cap. Now, configure this pin for input, and measure the voltage as described above.
For more details,ckts and help Contact
report4all@gmail.com
The first prototype
The photoresistors are mounted on the robot head which in turn is attached to the gear axe. I used a paper strip separating the photoresistors and its optimal length in my setting is 1in measured from the photoresistors. The separator is needed to shadow one of the photoresistors when the light source is moving. For simplicity, the head can move in a 2-dim horizontal plain only, thus making a difference with a real sunflower. The head is formed by a small breadboard ,which for now has just the photoresistors and the paper separator mounted on it.
The light sensors (L and R on the schematic) are connected to the PIC which periodically measures their resistance and controls the motor accordingly. To measure the resistance of the photocells I use a classic RC-chain and measure the time of charging a capacitor, which for a fixed C is proportional to R. The direction of the motor rotation is controlled by the classic H-bridge composed entirely from NPN Darlington transistors TIP120. These transistor structures contain the diodes protecting them from the high voltage caused by inductive load. The bases of the bridge transistors are connected to PIC. If the RB6 and RB7 outputs are both 0, the motor is not rotating. If one of them is 0 and the other one is 1, the motor is rotating in the corresponding direction. The situation when both outputs are 1 is prevented by the software, since in this case the 3V battery would be short cut.Schematic Layout
This is just the first prototype of the design and I use LCD for tuning and debugging. The LCD displays the numbers coming out of the resistance measurement. The larger numbers correspond to a darker resistance. The built-in PIC program does not allow the numbers to exceed 255. The minimum numbers corresponding to lighting the device with a desktop 60W lamp is about 30, so we have almost the full range of the light intensity measurements of 30 - 255. The motor starts to move if the absolute difference between the numbers is larger than 15, which is defined experimentally. This constant defines how much the light source can move before the robot starts following it. The larger is the constant, the less is the accuracy of following the light. The sensor resistance is measured approximately every 80msec, which is also near optimal for the gear ratio 719:1 and the motor voltage in the range 3 - 5V. Increasing the measurement time up to 250msec causes the head moving back and force several times before it finally stabilizes.
The embedded program source for the first prototype is photo1.asm
The Second prototype
The LCD is actually not needed in a real device and can be excluded. This decreases the number of interface pins down to 6. Hence, a smaller PIC can be used as it is shown on the updated schematics. This PIC 12F675 has built-in 4MHz RC-oscillator which further simplifies the circuit. Also, smaller transistors can be used to drive the motor. However, they do require the diodes protecting them from the high voltage peaks caused by the motor.
Excluding the LCD significantly simplifies the program. One needs, however, to rename th output ports and other registers according to the PIC specs. The 12F675 has built-in comparators and ADC that are not used in this design and must be turned off. Also, all I/O ports must be setup for the digital mode. Finally, the PIC configuration fuses have some extra bits.
The embedded program source for the second prototype is photo2.asm
The Final Design
The robot electronics is assembled on a small board available form RadioShack. To simplify the power supply I added 3 silicon diodes 1N4003 that drop the 5V voltage down to about 3V for the motor. This way the entire unit can be powered up from a single 5V source. The maximum current consumption is about 200ma when the motor is on and just a couple of milliamperes when it is off.
The code is practically the save as the one for the second prototype with just a few changes. Two procedures that measure the light intensity are merged into one and I set up manually all PIC control registers instead of relying on their default values after power reset.
The embedded program source for the final design is photo3.asm
Things to consider
The used way for measuring the resistance if not optimal. It takes 2 pins of PIC - one for charging/discharging the cap and one for actually measuring a voltage. This can be accomplished with just one PIC pin. For this disconnect the right (on schematic) end of the cap and attach it to +5V. Rising up the voltage on PIN GP3 (in this case it should be configured for output) will discharge the cap. Now, configure this pin for input, and measure the voltage as described above.
For more details,ckts and help Contact
report4all@gmail.com
USB Physical Hit Counter based on AVR
This is an USB Physical Hit Counter.This version requires one MCU to communicate between PC and 7-segments display driver.I decided using AVR and this is my first AVR project.The purpose of this project still same as previous version.Therefore,it used to count and display the total page hits on any website instead of using only general scripts such as PHP,Java,CGI etc.The host software no USB driver programming required.
The display I have used come from version 2 which it is MAX7219 and 7-segment x 8. MAX7219 requires only 3 I/O from MCU.ATtiny25 is the heart of this project.The firmware for this project written in AVR-GCC.This firmware modified from EasyLogger example which developed by Christian Starkjohann from Objective Development.Also,Christian Starkjohann developed an excellent USB firmware called AVR-USB which is a firmware-only implementation of a USB 1.1 compliant low-speed device for Atmel’s AVR microcontrollers.With this AVR-USB driver, it is easy to implement USB interface on AVR microcontroller project without dedicated USB hardware or no requires any USB to RS232 devices such as FT232.
From the circuit above this circuit requires at least 300mA,9-12V DC or AC external power supply for MAX7219 to avoid overloading on USB bus.The regulator(IC1) needs an appropriate heat sink.The IC3 use bus-powered.
GPS Based Vehicle Tracking and Security System Abstract
Global Positioning System, usually called GPS, is the only fully-functional satellite navigation system. A constellation of more than two dozen GPS satellites broadcasts precise timing signals by radio, allowing any GPS receiver (abbreviated to GPSr) to accurately determine its location (longitude, latitude, and altitude) in any weather, day or night, anywhere on Earth.
GPS has become a vital global utility, indispensable for modern navigation on land, sea, and air around the world, as well as an important tool for map-making and land surveying. GPS also provides an extremely precise time reference, required for telecommunications and some scientific research, including the study of earthquakes. GPS receivers can also gauge altitude and speed with a very high degree of accuracy.
GPS data logger
Abstract
A GPS data logger is a device that can store GPS location information of all the places where the device is taken. This device is very useful for offline tracking of vehicles assets, animals etc. This information can be later transferred to a PC of a plotting device to trace the path followed by the object under observation. The device is essentially a GPS module and a storage medium. The most suitable storage medium is a flash memory. A microcontroller will read GPS information from the GPS module and stores them onto the flash memory. A time stamp is also attached to every reading to complete the trace. Once the data is captured the data is usually transferred to a PC to plot on a map and analyze the data.
Thin air mouse glove
Abstract
A thin air mouse glove is a glove that can be used as a pointing device. The is no mouse pad or hard surface, the user wears the glove and waves his hand in thin air and the cursor on the screen moves. The device is basically an accelerometer which measures the acceleration in various directions. All the readings from the accelerometer are taken and the direction of motion is calculated.
This is transmitted to the PC or the host machine via an RF link of a bluetooth link. The PC uses that data to move its mouse cursor. This technology can eliminate costly touch screens which are usually misused by public. Accelerometer mouse can also be very useful in certain industries where touchscreen deployment is not possible.
Wireless Local positioning system
Abstract
A local positioning system is similar to a GPS system, but restricted to a specified area, usually a building or a campus. Normally local positioning systems are very accurate. Such positioning systems also use the triangulation method to locate a target. The aim of this project is to create wireless positioning system for a school campus and track various costly assets.
The idea is to use a RF positioning where the item under observation will send out a beacon signal periodically. This signal will be picked up by 3 or more strategically placed receivers. The signal strength is used to calculate the distance of the object from the receiver. Getting more than 3 distances and applying it to the distance formule can provide with the exact location of the target.
Talking Fingerprint access control
Abstract
A finger print access control is where the unique finger print of the user is used to recognize the user. Most finger print systems now have memory also also that no external memory interfacing is required. A talking finger print access control where the user interface will use speech out put to direct the user. This is a combination of 2 projects, the finger print access control project and the text to speech project.
The finger print access control project will pull up information from a database and cross check it with the print and then grants access or denies it. With the text to speech module attached to it and with a bit of coding, we can make the system talking. If someone with out access tries his finger, it will saw “You dont have access, sorry”. This is done by sending text info to the text to speech converter by the main microcontroller.
Rolling code security for remote controls
Remote controls can be hacked. Especially the ones that use RF with out any encoding schemes can be hacked very easily. Key less entry for cars, garage doors etc are the ones which are more venerable to attack. Attackers use custom made handsets which mimic the frequency of the original handset to get the attack done. Rolling code security mechanisms are used to protect wireless remotes from such attacks.
The idea is to use a synchronized code. The transmitter and receiver agrees on a particular code for the next transmission. If only that matches in the next transmission will it be accepted. After every successful transmission the code is changed by either the transmitter or the receiver and is then synchronized. In this method no other handset can communicate with the receiver with out knowing the code. The only draw back of this system is that only one handset can be used.
The idea is to use a synchronized code. The transmitter and receiver agrees on a particular code for the next transmission. If only that matches in the next transmission will it be accepted. After every successful transmission the code is changed by either the transmitter or the receiver and is then synchronized. In this method no other handset can communicate with the receiver with out knowing the code. The only draw back of this system is that only one handset can be used.
Bluetooth based projects :remote control for servo motor
Bluetooth is a short range digital communication protocol suitable for robotic projects. The remote control consists of a receiver and a transmitter. In this case we can use a standard bluetooth module as the receiver. The transmitter may be custom made from a bluetooth module, or a small program can be written on any smart phones with bluetooth capability. J2me and windows mobile are the best for this purpose. Symbian also can be used.