Alt-BEAM Archive
Message #09219
To: beam@sgiblab.sgi.com
From: Bruce Robinson Bruce_Robinson@telus.net
Date: Sat, 15 Jan 2000 12:17:43 -0800
Subject: [alt-beam] BeamBlocks ... was: microcore experimentation kit
> David Perry wrote:
>
> ... What if (as someone suggested) i create a small circuit
> board complete with a single schmitt inverter and either a
> plug to put in your own resistor or an adjustable pot built in.
This simple suggestion evolved into a multi-thread discussion (BEAM
LEGO, Back to the Hextiles). As soon as someone made a suggestion,
neurons started to fire in several hundred minds; next thing you know
we've got 20 variations on the original theme.
I've figured out that there are actually 4 different ideas (at least)
being discussed here. This is my crude attempt at putting this in
perspective.
Hextiles: Preconfigured boards with many redundant connections.
Everything you want to make a complex nervous net, and then
some. Using the boards involves cutting traces, adding jumpers,
soldering on wires, etc. PURPOSE: build prototype robots after
the circuit concepts have been debugged.
"Nv chip": This was (more or less) David's original suggestion.
The sales volume isn't there to justify actually manufacturing
a single-chip Nv (not yet, anyway). So the suggestion was to
make up a very small board with the Nv components on it, a
board that could be plugged into a breadboard somewhat like a
DIP chip. PURPOSE: build experimental circuits with fewer
individual parts to hook up.
Modular blocks: Wilf suggested a complete SET of plug-together
blocks that would allow you to build complete robots. You could
build a functioning robot using only the blocks; no soldering or
external wiring required. A "prototype" block would be available
for those who wanted to move beyond the capabilities of the
blocks. PURPOSE: build experimental circuits and experimental
robots, try out new configurations.
Lego-compatible blocks: Same as the modular block idea, but
physically compatible with the LEGO (TM) system. PURPOSE: as
above but able to use all the existing blocks, wheels, shafts,
motors, etc.
Each idea has it's own niche. The modular blocks have tremendous
potential, but it is requires a lot of experimenting and ingenuity to
get a flexible, damage-proof system.
As always, there is no reason not to pursue all 4 ideas simultaneously.
Using the net to share discoveries and experiences will surely lead to
improvements everywhere.
For discussions on this list, I suggest the term "BeamBlock" for the
modular blocks, which doesn't imply compatibility with the Lego system
(doesn't exclude it, either). Off the list is another story ... check
for trademark violations whatever name you choose.
Bruce
9220 Sun, 16 Jan 2000 09:13:36 +1300 Unicore HENDO
> Hi people,
> I was just wondering if anyone out there had any info on the unicore
beamant
> (shematic, parts list, pcb layout, general info etc)
>
> cya
> james
>
>
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