Wednesday, 11. March 2009, 00:08:09
Programming, *bot, RFID, Robotics
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So today's topic covers using RFID with sound(s).
The image above depicts the use of RFID and sound on the NXT brick. This simple program starts out with implementing the RFID sensors and connecting them to a Logic block. The input we are looking for in this case is the 'AND' operator. We then connect to a Switch block which contains our first sound (can be any sound) and a simple motor movement. When we pass the RFID keyfob (any) transponder before the RFID sensor, out robot plays a sound and moves forward.
The second stage of the program does pretty much the same thing, in reverse, but with one key exception; we use a second keyfob transponder. This was done to experiment with using multiple transponders to see how it would work. The key thing to remember when using multiple transponders is to be certain to do a "Live Update" and click the "Current Transponder" button in order to uniquely identify each transponder. Sound, movement, just about anything is possible using RFID on the NXT.
Monday, 9. March 2009, 00:35:33
*bot, Robotics, NXT, Programming
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So i had a chance to finally play around with the RFID sensor. Yeah, yeah! It is certainly exciting. The RFID sensor was easy to implement and use, once imported. Importing was easy as well, i simply used the built-in block 'Import and Export' wizard.
With that in mind, here is a simple program that illustrates how to control the NXT with RFID.
Start out by displaying a message. Then, implement the RFID sensors and connect them with Data Wires. Pass the value from the RFID sensors to Data Wires on a Compare Block that will determine the state in which the robot is in, i.e., 'Stop' or 'Go'. We then connect the Data Wires to a switch which contains our movement. The movement in this case is simple, just a 'jog' forward, say something ("Bravo", in this case), and then execute a sharp left turn. That's about that.
How It Works: Run the program, and then pass the RFID transponder before the RFID sensor. Once read, the robot does his little run and turn move and then stops and awaits further instructions.
Clearly, RFID on NXT has infinite possibilities. We can have the robot carry out various tasks, use multiple transponders, 'go here, do this', identify objects using RFID, etc. Let your imaginations go wild with it. The RFID sensor does not disappoint and i am eager to delve deeper into more experiments with robotics and RFID.
Wednesday, 4. March 2009, 21:08:26
*bot, RFID, Robotics, SeTH-1
Today i received my new Codatex RFID sensor for the NXT brick. Yeah, yeah! i have not 'officially' begun experimenting with it just yet, since i have some actual work to do, but will probably give it a go a little later today. i finally have the chance to combine two of my strongest passions -- robotics and RFID.
The following is a picture that i took just to show what it looks like out of the package.
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Here's a quote from LEGOEducation:
The Codatex RFID Sensor works with 125 kHz transponders and can read five-byte transponder numbers into the NXT Intelligent Brick. The RFID Sensor has three different reading modes: single read, continuous read, and stop. The maximum reading distance depends on the transponder size; for example, the keyfob will read up to a maximum distance of 30 mm. One RFID Sensor, five keyfob transponders, five clear disc transponders, and two card transponders are included in this set.
The complete package:
Thursday, 15. November 2007, 02:57:18
RFID, Robotics, Mechatronics
Yeah, i think i will treat myself this holiday season (and especially for all the work i've put in) to a new robotics kit. i have been looking at the developer version of the iCreate and i think it holds tremendous possibilities. Too, it is a very cost-effective way to further one's experimentation with the study of robotics. In addition to that, over at Parallax they have a very cool, tiny, and inexpensive RFID kit for performing introductory experiments with the techonology. Hmmmm...