PROJECT UPDATES

3.27.2008
Assembly Complete
The power systems and motor controller interface have been completed. A complication in connecting the optical encoders to the control board has been identified, and several options are being considered. Initial test runs of the vehicle have begun, with encouraging results. The joystick interface is operational, and the new drive motors and caster wheels are performing well. Check back soon for a video. In the meantime, watch last year's version of the vehicle, AMBER, at the competition:

 

2.11.2008
Mechanical Assembly Complete
Over winter break the new modifications to the frame were implemented, and the motors, drive wheels and casters attached. Within the next week, reinstallation of the power systems, as well as interfacing the new motor controller will occur, and it is hoped that we will be testing the new mechanical systems via joystick input by the end of February. A new GPS/DGPS combination receiver is being researched and will be ordered shortly.

12.11.2007
Final Fall Semester Update
The team has completed its first semester design report, as well as presented on the project to the department. While no additional updates will be made until after spring semester has begun, it is planned to complete all machining and mechanical assembly over winter break. Check back with us at the end of January for more news.

11.27.2007
Initial Design Nearing Completion
A new 2 channel DC motor controller has been purchased at discount with our thanks to Roboteq.The current GPS receiver has been tested for accuracy and is suspected to be defective; a new one is being ordered. The new mechanical designs for the vehicle have been completed and modeled in ProE, and materials will be ordered shortly. Possible image transforms to address problems noticed at last year's competition have been implemented in MATLAB and are under testing for effectiveness.

11.4.2007
NJAV T-Shirts
The 2007-2008 NJAV T-shirts are now available! The shirts are $10, available from S to 2XL. All proceeds go to team's funding account. Mail njav@tcnj.edu if interested. They are pictured below:

10.30.2007
Components Delivered
10 " Pnuematic caster wheels and NPC 41250 DC Motors were selected, ordered, and have been received. ProE 3D modeling of the casters has been completed, and is underway for the new motors. Current drawn by exisiting components has been tabulated. This year's promotional brochure has also been completed.

 

10.16.2007
Component Selection
A new steering controller by Roboteq has been selected for this year's vehicle and will be ordered within the week. Selection of the new casters, drive motors, and GPS differential beacon receiver is nearing completion.

 

10.2.2007
Preliminary Assembly & Testing
The new 2007-08 team met to reassemble AMBER from last year into a working state. Initial testing was done confirming that the steering motor controller is damaged from last years competition and will require replacing.
 

See About The Project for details on this year's plans.