Specifications

Electronics and Sensors
121
Figure 4.39 Electronics enclosure
4.11 HARDWARE SUMMARY
The mechanical shell of the mechatron did not have any working electronic systems
installed at the onset of this project. The various electrical systems designed and
implemented on the outdoor mechatron have been described. A block diagram
overview of the hardware and associated connectivity is outlined in Figure 4.40.
A generic design approach has been used to ensure compatibility with future upgrades
and portability to other robotic vehicles. A central computer is installed with the
necessary communication interfaces and hardware protection for outdoor robot
control. Power distribution to each electronic system is accomplished with a range of
cabling and switches including fused protection and uniform modular connectors to
each device.
A range of sensing options have been researched and the implementation of GPS,
electronic compass, accelerometer and infrared range sensors provide the means for
autonomous operation outdoors. Additional hardware including a DAQ card
connection system and electronics enclosure provides convenient connection to and
protection of the various electronic components.
Power
Distribution
Board
GPS
Receiver
DAQ Card
Connector
R/C
Interface
Micro
Board
IR Sensor
Interface