Specifications and Controls

Chapter 3 Specifications & Controls

ActivMedia’s robots may be smaller than most, but they pack an impressive array of intelligent mobile robot capabilities that rival bigger and much more expensive machines. For example, the Pioneer 2-DXe with onboard PC is a fully autonomous intelligent mobile robot, but unlike other commercially available robots, the DXe’s modest size lends itself very well to navigation in tight quarters and cluttered spaces, such as classrooms, laboratories, and small offices.

At the same time, the powerful P2OS server with ActivMedia Robotics client software, is fully capable of mapping its environment, finding its way home, and performing other sophisticated path planning tasks.

Physical Characteristics

Weighing only 9 kg (20 pounds with one battery), the basic Pioneer 2-DXe Mobile Robot is lightweight, but its strong aluminum body materials and solid construction make it virtually indestructible.

Figure 8. The Pioneer 2-DXE’s physical dimensions and swing radius

These characteristics also permit it to carry extraordinary payloads: The DXe can carry up to 23 Kg (50 lbs.) additional weight; the Pioneer 2-AT can carry over 30 Kg (66 lbs.) more! Yet the Pioneer 2 is lightweight enough that it is also as easy to transport as a suitcasea task made even easier by the DXe's built-in handle.

Main Components

ActivMedia robots are composed of several main parts:

!Deck(s) and Console

!Body, Nose, and Accessory Panels

!Sonar Array(s)

!Motors and encoders

!Batteries and Power

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Pioneer 2 / PeopleBot manual Specifications & Controls, Physical Characteristics, Main Components
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2 / PeopleBot specifications

Pioneer 2, also known as PeopleBot, is an advanced mobile robot platform heralded for its versatile design and robust capabilities. Developed by the renowned robotics company Adept Technology, Pioneer 2 has become a staple in the field of mobile robotics, widely utilized for research, education, and practical applications in various industries.

One of the standout features of Pioneer 2 is its exceptional mobility. The robot is equipped with differential steering, allowing it to navigate complex environments with precision. Its compact and sturdy chassis enables it to traverse a variety of terrains, making it suitable for indoor and outdoor exploration. This mobility is further enhanced by an adaptable wheel configuration, allowing for smooth movement even over obstacles.

In terms of technologies, Pioneer 2 is outfitted with an array of sensors that facilitate autonomous navigation and obstacle avoidance. These sensors include laser range finders, infrared sensors, and bumpers, which work in tandem to map the surrounding environment and detect potential hazards. This capability is critical for applications in areas such as warehouse automation or reconnaissance tasks, where safe navigation is paramount.

Pioneer 2 also supports extensive software frameworks, notably the Robot Operating System (ROS). This compatibility allows researchers and developers to leverage a vast library of tools and algorithms, expediting the process of programming and deploying robotic applications. Additionally, the platform can be integrated with various payloads, such as cameras or grippers, expanding its functionality further.

Another significant characteristic of Pioneer 2 is its user-friendly design. The robot comes with an easy-to-use programming interface that empowers users with varying levels of expertise to engage with the technology. Educational institutions often employ Pioneer 2 in robotics courses to provide students with hands-on experience in programming and operating robotic systems.

Powering Pioneer 2 is a rechargeable battery system that ensures extended operation times. This feature is particularly advantageous for fieldwork applications where connectivity to a power source may not be readily available. Importantly, the robot’s modular design facilitates maintenance and upgrades, allowing users to keep their systems current with advances in technology.

Overall, Pioneer 2 (PeopleBot) exemplifies innovation in mobile robotics with its outstanding mobility, advanced sensing technologies, compatibility with leading software frameworks, and a design focused on ease of use and adaptability. It continues to be a preferred choice for researchers, educators, and professionals in the rapidly evolving landscape of robotics.
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