liuzengqiang:
Even with encoders, I bet the minute difference in friction when the OP starts motor at full speed may just turn the robot a tiny bit, which is enough to make it travel in a kind-of-straight line but off from forward.
I totally agree. So, that means pursuit of straight line movement in indoor environment with a two-wheeled rover is non trivial and is futile without:
- Either using floor strips as in warehouses
- or using a single wheel with a stepper at nose to control direction
What are the quick alternatives that can be used without requiring extensive setup and crisscrossing the house with lasers / ribbons?
Is compass an option. But it can get distracted by the metallic and magnetic objects...
What about a camera aimed at the roof that can memorize roof map?
Or using ultrasonic sensors?