Can a Robot Complete a 10km Walk?

Posted 31 Jul 2001 at 03:28 UTC by steve

The Swirling Brain and I (along with a few others) have embarked on a new project. Our goal is develop an autonomous, walking robot that can complete a 10km walk to be held May 2002 to raise money for Cystic Fibrosis research. We are calling the robot, appropriately enough, CF Walker. As the design and construction of the robot progresses, we'll post an occasional update on its status.

While the design is still being worked on. I can provide a few details for those who are curious. The robot will be a biped and will be powered by batteries charged by solar panels. When the power drops too low, the robot will "rest" until the batteries recharge.

A laptop running Linux will be used to control the robot. The control software will be developed in Java and may be backwardly compatible with Windows (if possible).

A parallel port CCD camera will be used to provide the robot with vision. Navigation will consist of following a person wearing a hat of a particular color.

For more info, visit the web site where the latest info will be posted as it becomes available.