Chapter 1 Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase and welcome to the rapidly growing community of researchers, developers, and enthusiasts of ActivMedia Robotics’ intelligent mobile robots.

This Pioneer 2 Operations Manual provides both the general and technical details you need to operate your Pioneer 2-DX,-CE,-DXe,-AT, or PeopleBot Mobile Robot and to begin developing your own Robotics hardware and software. Please consult the Pioneer 2 H8 or the Performance PeopleBot manuals if you own a newer, Hitachi H8S-based robot.

ActivMedia Robotics

Figure 1. The Pioneer 2-DX and -AT Mobile Robots first appeared commercially in 1995.

Robot Package

Our experienced manufacturing staff put your mobile robot and accessories through a “burn in” period and carefully tested them before shipping the products to you. In addition to the companion resources listed above, we warranty your ActivMedia robot and our manufactured accessories against mechanical, electronic, and labor defects for one year. Third-party accessories are warranted by their manufacturers, typically for 90 days.

Even though we’ve made every effort to make your ActivMedia Robotics package complete, please check the components carefully after you unpack them from the shipping crate.

Basic Components (all shipments)

!One fully assembled mobile robot with battery

!CD-ROM containing licensed copies of ActivMedia software and documentation

!Hex wrenches and assorted replacement screws

!Replacement fuse

!Set of manuals

!Registration and Account Sheet

Optional Components and Attachments (partial list)

!Battery charger (some contain power receptacle and 220VAC adapters)

!Onboard PC computer with PC104+ bus, hard-drive and other accessories

!Radio Ethernet and/or serial modems; one mounted inside the robot

!Companion radio for LAN or basestation connection

!Supplementary and replacement batteries

!3-Battery Charge Station (110/220 VAC)

!Added sonar arrays

!Gripper

!5-DOF Arm with gripper

!ActivMedia Color Tracking System (ACTS)

!Stereo Vision Systems

!Pan-Tilt-Zoom Surveillance Cameras

!Custom Vision System

!Range-finding laser

!Global Positioning System

!Compass

!Bumper rings

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Pioneer 2 / PeopleBot manual Introduction, Robot Package, Basic Components all shipments
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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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