Hi,
I'm trying to create a robot that will be able to be controlled wirelessly. I've seen many similar projects, but haven't found one with exactly the same setup I'm trying. Just want to get a sanity check to see if any of the communications links or methods are not doable.
Basic blocks:
Laptop w/ wifi --> VB.net form -->TCP --> Xbee S6B (wifi) --> serial data --> Arduino (uno or mega) --> Arduino Motor shield --> 2x dc motors
Details:
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Control (user) interface --> VB.net form with buttons
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So buttons or keyboard can generate a single character (eg 'w' for forward) When the key or button is released, a second character is sent to engage the motor braking - completed this part today.
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Now I think I can use TCP sockets to send the ascii character to the XBee (haven't worked out all the code yet, but working on it). ADDED: Laptop (Windows 7) is connected to the XBee (configured as a SoftAP).
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The XBee then sends the ascii character to the Arduino through the serial in/out (pin0/1).
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Then the arduino interprets the ascii character and sends 'direction, speed (PWM) and braking' commands to the motorshield.
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Then motorshield controls the motors to move the bot.
I'm fairly sure I understand 1, 2, 5 and 6 pretty well. However 3 and 4 are not quite there. Am I thinking these two steps correctly or am I missing a link somewhere.
Thanks for the advice.
Joe B
EDITED to add the wireless connection is using the laptop to connect to the XBee (configured as a Soft AP)