Light Sensors control .NET Gadgeteer Robot

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Eduardo Velloso built the prototype for this .NET Gadgeteer robot that is controlled by two light sensor modules and a motor controller. The modules are available from GHI Electronics. The design uses two motors that separately drive the wheels and tracks of the robot. The code monitors the difference between the light on the sensors and adjusts the speed of the motors accordingly.  You can steer the robot with a flashlight.

Light Sensor Robot

This is the first installment of the assembly instructions. I'll be updating this blog with more information and video as soon as the glue dries on the velcro patches that hold this thing together. The code (see below) and motors are working.  If you want to order parts, the following list includes everything I can think of that you'll need.

You can get the .NET Gadgeteer components from GHI Electronics. The mechanical parts, including the track and wheel set, the motors, and gearbox, can be purchased from Tamiya. 

Parts and Tools

- 1 FEZ Hydra mainboard: https://www.ghielectronics.com/catalog/product/328

- USB Client SP module: https://www.ghielectronics.com/catalog/product/330

- 1 GHI motor controller:https://www.ghielectronics.com/catalog/product/315

- 2 GHI Light Sensor modules:https://www.ghielectronics.com/catalog/product/336

- - 3.7 volt Kensington Battery Pack and Charger, or Duracell Powerhouse USB Charger with Lithium ion battery; the important thing is that the battery includes universal cable with USB and mini USB

 - 4 AA Batteries

- 1 4-battery holder and connector

- 1 Tamiya 70157 Universal plate set (2 pcs): https://www.tamiyausa.com/product/item.php?product-id=70157

- 1 Tamiya 70168 Double Gearbox set: https://www.tamiyausa.com/product/item.php?product-id=70168  Use Assembly Type D

- 1 Tamiya 70100 Track and wheel set: https://www.tamiyausa.com/product/item.php?product-id=70100

- 1 side cutter

- 1 screwdriver

- 3 velcro strips

- Wires and ribbon cables

Here is a picture of the gears assembly. Two motors are included with the kit. They drive the wheels and tracks independently.

 The following pictures show the robot in various stages of assembly.

 

 

Application Code

The .NET Gadgeteer application code is very simple. The Designer view and code are shown in the following sections.