APUSH

Robot Project Guidelines

Table of Contents
1. Project Objectives 1
2. Project Description 2
3. Project Grading 2
4. Project Tasks and Timeline 3
4.1 Programming Tasks 3
4.1.1 VEX Controller Initialization 3
4.1.2 Write Your First Program 4
4.1.3 Write Three Practice Programs 4
4.1.4 Load and Test GOTO_BEACON 5
4.2 Mechanical Design and Construction Tasks 5
4.2.1 Sensors and Motors 5
4.3 Electronics Tasks 5
4.4 Tasks for Weeks #3 and #4 6
5. Infrared Receiver Board (IRB) Fabrication 6
5.1 Practice Soldering 6
5.2 Resistors 7
5.3 Capacitors 8
5.4 Sockets for Integrated Circuits 8
5.5 Light Emitting Diodes (LED) 9
5.6 Transistors 9
5.7 Connectors 10
5.8 Infrared Detectors 10
5.9 Fuse 11
5.10 Final Inspection 11
6. IRB Theory of Operation 11
6.1 Tuning Circuit 11
6.2 Exposure Control 12
6.3 Counter and Selector 12
6.4 Amplifier 12
6.5 Indicator LEDs 12
6.6 Cable Connection between VEX controller and IRB 13
6.7 LED Test Programs 13
7. System Development Considerations 15
7.1 Ultrasonic Sensor 15
7.2 Bumper Switch and Limit Switch 15
7.3 Optical Encoder 15
7.4 Issues with the Frequency Select Function 15
7.5 VEX Controller Analog/Digital Ports 15
Appendix A – GOTO_BEACON Program (separate file) A-1
Appendix B – How to Solder (separate file) B-1

1. Project Objectives
Learn fundamentals of computer programming
Design and build a system to complete specified tasks
Build and program a circuit board
Successfully work as a team to execute a complex project
Develop organized oral and written presentations to convey the project design and outcomes

2. Project Description
An offshore oil drilling rig exploded and caused a sea-floor leak that continues to gush oil into the sea. This spill can cause serious damage to the marine and wildlife habitats as well as the fishing industry if not stopped quickly. Your objective in this project is to design an autonomous robot that is capable