Alt-BEAM Archive
Message #02772
To: George Rix rix.g@bmts.com
From: Bob Shannon bshannon@tiac.net
Date: Thu, 29 Apr 1999 18:50:54 -0700
Subject: [alt-beam] Re: Contest and Arena group
George Rix wrote:
> How much, exactly, do these things cost, and where can you find them (and
> the tools for them)?
As soon as they become available, a web page will be put up with the
details
for the robots and the arena events themselves. Also a server for
'winning'
code will be made availble to accelerate the evolutionary process.
As far as the (approximate) cost:
> In all probability there will be two different 'standard platform' kits,
> for
> three or more different competitive events. The target kit cost is
> under $100
> with a very simple programmer included.
The programming tools would be part of the kit, along with a
pre-programmed
(but re-programmable!) chip.
> Thanks in advance,
> Signing off,
> Rob Rix
What few details are know (but subject to change) are we are looking at
two classes, and hence two kits. One is a lightweight solar powered
class. These robots would be quite similar to Terry Newton's excellent
PICBOT II design.
The second class (battery powered) would be based on a slightly larger
chassis with gearmotor drive.
But it is looking possible that we may have a single kit, with build
options for each class. One prototype (already popping!) is actually
modular, and can be re-configured for solar or battery power with four
screws and some connectors.
When the web page it up, I'll let people know. I'll probably put up
some pictures of a prototype at the same time I place my motion contest
BEAM design on line.
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