Project Objective
The Open Robotics Peripheral Platform's goal is to provide a versatile platform for many different robotic applications. Until now the basic platforms for robots have been either toys with little practical application or expensive, overly customized components. The goal of this project is to provide modular components that are easily outfitted with various hardware and software features in the same manner as the modern-day personal computer. Any novice computer technician could control, outfit, and maintain a O.R.P.P.
Operating systems for the robot server include:
- *nix: Linux (tested) and Mac OS X (planned)
- Windows: Windows 98 (tested), 2000 (tested) and CE (planned)
Operating Systems for the robot client include
- *nix: Linux (tested under WINE) and Mac OSX (planned)
- Windows: Windows 98 (tested), 2000 (tested) and CE (planned)
- Java: Sun Microsystems' JAVA (planned)
All the software is open-source, covered under the GPL. This means customizing a robot to your exact needs need not be done by any one particular consultant or technician. Diagrams and schematics for components are provided so that you can create and design features that may not currently be available.
Current Status
Currently in prototyping stages
Systems currently in operation:
*Motion control over any internet link.
The robot is equipped with a wifi card, this allows the control computer to connect wirlessly and send motion commands. This system is 100 percent operational for the prototype.
*One direction camera stream with pan and tilt
The client can see whatever the camera is pointed at in real time, and the operator can pan the camera. Fully operational
*Object tracking system.
Image processing on the client side allows automatic pan movement for the camera. One you lock onto a target, it will follow as well as it can. Fully operational, but needs more work to become robust.
Documentation
The following pages may contain information of interest. More information is currently being written and a forum for idea discussion will be opened shortly.
- Sourceforge Project Site
- Images of the prototype
- Architecture Overview
- Schematics and Sourcecode are available from the download page.
Available ORPP Devices
Swittech.com offers the ORPP1 developers chassis and Motor Control Board. www.swittech.com for pricing and more information.