Figure 10. The Console is in
the left column of the
Performance PeopleBot.

ActivMedia Robotics

Deck(s) and Console

The original Pioneer 2-DX, -CE, and -AT Decks are one piecethe top plate of the robot. The new DXe and AT models now have hinged top-plates which let you much more easily access the internal components of the robot.

Figure 9. Pioneer 2-AT Console and hinged Deck

The robot’s Deck is simply the flat surface for mounting projects and accessories, such as the PTZ Robotic Camera or a laser range finder. The PeopleBot’s have lower and upper Decks.

Feed-through slots on each side of the DX, CE, and DXe Deck let you conveniently route cables to the accessory panels on each side of the robot. A removable plug in the middle of the Deck on all models5 gives you convenient access to the interior of the robot.

In general, you should try to center the robot's payload over the drive wheels. If you must add a heavy accessory to the edge of the Deck, counterbalance the weight with a heavy object on the opposite end. A full complement of batteries helps balance the robot, too.

The Pioneer 2’s or PeopleBot’s Console consists of a liquid-crystal display (LCD), MOTORS, and RESET control

buttons and indicators, and an RS232-compatible serial port with a 9-pin DSUB connector. The Pioneer 2 and PeopleBot V1 Consoles sit at the front of the Deck. The Performance PeopleBot’s Console is in the left column. Attached directly underneath the Console is the robot’s

microcontroller. Operations details are provided in the next chapter, Quick Start.

5Lower Deck of the PeopleBot’s.

11

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Pioneer 2 / PeopleBot manual Decks and Console, Pioneer 2-AT Console and hinged Deck
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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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