Assorted projects and pontifications.
I’ve started a new robot project! This will be one of the most challenges personal projects I’ve embarked on. I have the following goals: designed to be a flexible software test platform mechanical design from scratch in SolidWorks, manufactured from G10 low level control through off-the-shelve electronics including an Arduino, SparkFun Quadstepper motor controller, ITG-3200 Gyro, and BMA180 Accelerometer high-level control through mini-ITX computer onboard running ROS 2D SLAM w/…
Check out my new flying wing! The plane is made from a pair of EasyStar wing tips, a custom kevlar body (thanks Geoff!), and a handfull of electronics. The design is loosely based off of the AeroVironment Wasp. Below is a short video showing a few build photos and a recent flight set to the smooth tones of The Black Keys. Check back later for some high resolution still photos…
Woo! We finished our senior project. We have created a system of wireless accelerometers to measure the structural health of buildings. See below for some pictures and downloads. Abstract: A Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) System, relying on identification of changes to a structures resonant frequency to recognize potential structural damage and provide alerts, is designed and implemented. A module, using a 3-axis MEMS-based digital accelerometer, capable of measuring and wirelessly…
Check out my new RC hovercraft! I went through two versions over two nights ending in this bad boy. It is made only out of cardboard and basic RC electronics. The electronics include a DC motor, a speed controller, a servo an RC receiver, and a 350mAh LiPo battery. Features include three rear control surfaces, a trap door along the back for the battery, and another trap door for the…
BeoHawk, a new quad-rotor helicopter that is being developed at USC’s iLab, has taken its first flight. This flight was a major milestone for Aerial Robotics Team’s goal of competing in the AUVSI International Aerial Robotics Competition. This year’s competition focuses on retrieving a USB flash drive in high security office building. The robot will have to avoid security guards, security cameras, laser trip wires, and weight-sensitive floors while stealing…
My favorite class so far at USC has been CSCI 445. The class is a general introduction to robots and teaching students a broad range of topics from robot kinematics to robot learning. Bust the best part of the class was the final project. The final project asks each group of students to create a robot that can navigate an environment and physically interact with the objects inside – all…