Contents

Overview

The base Garcia configuration is a reliable mobility platform; built on BrainStem technology, years of robotics development and top of the line components.  This configuration is a tight integration of electronics, hardware and software, creating a robot platform that will meet the stringent demands of high precision robotics applications. 

Garcia is built with Maxon motors, multiple distance ranging sensors and IR transmission capabilities.  A BrainStem GP 2.0 and Moto 1.0 network handle low level control of the sensors, actuators and peripherals so a host processor can worry about algorithms.  Power saving electronics help maximize battery runtime by providing the ability to cut power to sensors when not in use. 

Computing power and program storage is limited, but the robot can still do useful tasks that are demonstrated in the built-in demo program.  Programming the robot's controllers requires in-depth knowledge of its operating system.  Garcia manipulation from a host processor is possible through a serial port that connects to the BrainStem network.  Communication packet commands for the BrainStem network are documented in detail in the BrainStem Reference pages. 

Specifications

• BrainStem GP 2.0 and Moto 1.0 network
• Power regulation system
• Exposed I2C connector for expandability
• Spare analog pins available
• Spare general purpose digital pins available
• Servo motor output pins

Revision History:

• 2008-10-07: Supporting images for configuration posted.
• 2008-10-02: Garcia Base Configuration Details