Using an IR Network in a Robotic Competition Class

Abstract

The interdisciplinary sophomore design course -EGR 286 -utilizes design teams as part of an engineering design learning process. This course constrains a robotic project to using only LEGO® devices and the Robotic Command eXplorer (RCX).The instructors have observed that students greatly improve their interest in the design process if a main component is robotic competition events. Therefore, we have developed an infra-red (IR) network which enables inter-robot communications independent of position and orientation and allows the student teams to partially control the robots during multiteam competitions. A "satellite" RCX is established over the demonstration arena; its purpose is to receive and send signals from the competing teams' RCX systems and control network synchronization. The controlling software was developed using the public domain programming language, "NQC © ." We present the advantages and limitations of this network environment, in the context of one design competition, entitled "capture the flag."