Specifications and Controls

will automatically shut down the onboard PC. Discharging the batteries below 10 VDC may permanently damage them.

You may continue to operate the robot while charging its batteries, although that will lengthen the recharge time. Because the onboard PC draws much current, even the high-speed 4A charger will not be able to fully recharge the batteries unless you power down the PC.8

If you have only one battery onboard, plug your robot into the charger before “hot- swapping” the exhausted battery for a fresh one. To hot-swap two or three batteries, replace each battery one-at-a-time, leaving at least one battery in place to supply power to the robot.

The Power Cube accessory is a convenient way to externally recharge one to three of the hot-swapped batteries.

Liquid-Crystal Display & Contrast Adjustment

Information about your robot's state and connections appears on a 32-character (two lines) liquid-crystal display (LCD) on the Console. When under control of the P2OS servers, for example, the display shows the state of communication with the client computer, along with the battery voltage and a blinking "heartbeat" asterisk (*) in the second line of text.

A small, contrast-adjustment potentiometer for

Figure 13. The Console

the LCD is inset next to the display. Make sure the Main Power switch is ON and the battery is well charged. Then, using a small, flat-blade screwdriver, turn the adjustment screw to darken or lighten the screen so that the characters are clearly visible under your lighting conditions.

RESET and MOTORS

The RESET (red) and MOTORS (white) push-button switches on the Console affect the microcontroller’s logic and motor-driver systems.

When pressed alone, RESET puts the microcontroller into its start-up state, disrupting any running program or client connection. It also disables the drive motors—just as if you cycle Main Power. But, unlike a cold-power restart, RESET preserves the contents of the microcontroller's RAM, so any user programs downloaded in standalone mode get restarted.

The MOTORS pushbutton is not a power switch—it does not directly

control power to the motors.

8We deliberately limit the charger power to avoid serious damage that can occur from overcharging lead- acid batteries.

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Pioneer 2 / PeopleBot manual Liquid-Crystal Display & Contrast Adjustment, Reset and Motors
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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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