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CoderBot Documentation

website·Indexed 32 days ago

https://docs.coderbot.org

User manual and technical guides for CoderBot, covering kit assembly, hardware components, configuration, and block-based programming including predefined programs and step-by-step guides.

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What's inside CoderBot

  1. Overview of CoderBot predefined programs

    CoderBot comes with a set of ready-to-use programs divided into two categories:

    • Test Programs: Used to demonstrate or verify the correct operation of a specific robot function.
    • Demonstration Programs: Designed to perform meaningful tasks (e.g., obstacle avoidance) and serve as a starting point for educational activities.

    Note: Predefined example programs cannot be altered directly. To modify them, you must create a copy and save it under a different name.

  2. Overview of CoderBot Block-Based Programming

    CoderBot is programmed using a block-based language built on Blockly. Programs are created by combining blocks into sequences; these instructions are executed in order when the 'Avvia' (Start) button is activated. The environment includes specialized blocks designed to interact with CoderBot's hardware and software features.

  3. Access CoderBot documentation and resources

    CoderBot provides comprehensive documentation for assembling, configuring, and using the robot. Documentation is available via the web or directly within the CoderBot application by clicking 'Guida' (Guide) on the main page. Key resources include assembly instructions, parts lists, configuration manuals, user manuals, and guides.

  4. Program CoderBot using sensors and logic

    CoderBot supports conditional logic and sensor readings to create reactive behavior. Key components include:

    • Logic Blocks: Found in the Logica menu. Use the se … fai (if... then) block for conditional execution. You can add an altrimenti (else) branch by clicking the small gear/wheel icon on the se block and dragging the altrimenti block underneath it.
    • Comparison Operators: Use comparison blocks from the Logica menu. You can toggle operators (e.g., changing = to <) by clicking on the symbol.
    • Sensors: Found in the Sensori menu. Use blocks like leggi distanza con sonar 1 (read distance with sonar 1) to get real-time data from the robot's hardware.
    • Math: Use the Matematica menu to insert numerical values or mathematical operations for comparison (e.g., setting a distance threshold to 15).
    • Conditional Loops: Use the ripeti mentre (repeat while) block from the Cicli menu to execute a set of instructions as long as a specific sensor condition is met.

  5. Export and import programs between CoderBots

    To move a program from one CoderBot to another or back up a program to a computer:

    1. Use the Esporta (Export) function to download the program as a file to your PC via the browser.
    2. Use the Importa (Import) function on the target CoderBot to select and upload the file from your PC. The program will open in the Blockly Programming view.
    3. After importing, use the Salva (Save) function to store the imported program locally on the new device.

  6. Assemble CoderBot Motors

    1. Insert T-shaped metal supports into the chassis.
    2. Position motors so the white pin faces outward and the red power wire is near the base (red wire positioned higher).
    3. Secure motors using M3 30mm screws and M3 self-locking nuts. Use pliers or a wrench to hold the nut.
    4. Route power cables through the slots near the contacts.

  7. Power on and connect to CoderBot WiFi

    To start CoderBot, press and hold the power button located on one of the sides for a few seconds. LEDs on the main board inside the frame will begin to flash. After approximately one minute, CoderBot will broadcast a WiFi network named coderbot_ followed by a four-digit ID.

    To connect:

    1. Select the coderbot_XXXX network from your device's WiFi list.
    2. When prompted for a security key, enter coderbot.
    3. Open a web browser (Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox) and navigate to http://coder.bot to access the application.

    Note: The CoderBot WiFi network does not provide internet access; it only connects your device to the robot's local application.

  8. Control digital outputs and LEDs on CoderBot

    CoderBot provides blocks to interact with hardware outputs: use 'Scrivi Digital Output' to activate a specific digital output pin, and 'Controlla led' to control LED strips driven by WS2812B chips.

  10. Install CoderBot Camera

    1. Place the camera on the support so the asymmetric window leaves the LED on the right side of the camera board exposed.
    2. Secure with M2 6mm screws (heads on the wood side, nuts on the board side).

    Warning: Use only fingers or small tweezers for the nuts to avoid damaging the delicate PCB components. 3. Connect the flat cable to the Raspberry Pi. Extract the locking tab, insert the cable, and push the tab down to lock. 4. Fit the camera support into the main chassis grooves and lock it into the wall slots.

  11. Create and manage programs with Blockly

    Programs in CoderBot are sets of blocks that define robot actions. To start programming, click the 'Programma' button on the main screen or in the side menu. The programming view consists of a Blockly Toolbox on the left and a workspace on the right where blocks are dragged to compose the program. The available command groups in the toolbox are determined by the 'Livello Pannello degli strumenti Blockly' (Blockly Toolbox Level) setting in the global settings.

  12. Generate sounds and music with CoderBot

    CoderBot includes a set of music blocks to produce audio: 'Suona nota' emits a sound for a specific note using a chosen instrument, 'Pausa' creates a silence for a specified duration, and instrument selection blocks allow choosing between standard instruments ('Strumento (strumento)') or animal sounds ('Strumento (animale)').