Multi-Sensors for Robot Teaming Using Raspberry Pi and VEX Robotics Construction Kit

Abstract

The paper presents an engineering design approach to develop an instructional module for college students to learn Microprocessors and Robotics using multiple sensors, microprocessors and software design tools. The module consists of research analysis, lesson content development and laboratory practice selection, which satisfies the ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering & Technology) requirement for engineering education. The research analysis covers the work reported by the scholars from MIT and other universities [1] [2], where the main concern is how to enhance students' capability in developing engineering products using new technologies in the industry, such as multiple sensor fusion methodology as well as working skills on cross-platform hardware (Intel, ARM, AMD and PIC, etc.) and software (Linux, Windows and Androids, etc.). After the research paper analysis, a class activity has been developed. The activity includes teaching students to build teaming robots by combining the Cortex controllers with ROBOTC programming environment under Windows and the Raspberry Pi (in ARM cores) using Python under Linux and guiding students to develop a cross-platform software and hardware design using PIC Microcontrollers with embedded C under Windows and the Raspberry Pi with Python under Linux.