Blind-man is designed to be a balancing entity that maintains an upright posture on a two-wheel single-axle base. An M-Core processor running a fuzzy controller keeps the robot in an upright posture. Blind-man will adjust for falling either forwards or backwards by adjusting motor speed and direction. A floor-riding sensor feeds the current angle to the processor in order for the fuzzy controller to determine an action to maintain balance.
The name Blind-man was inspired by the design of the floor riding sensor, as it resembles a walking stick for the blind. This sensor was integral in the development of Blind-man's sense of direction.
Once balancing, a remote control allows Blind-man to move around. It will be able to move forwards and backwards while standing, as well as being able to rotate right and left.
Here are some pictures and videos of the robot.
Picture page
Movie page
The design team:
Russ Bhinder
David Laing
Ashley Zinyk