Computer-Controlled Tank Operations

[Christoffer Ahlfors]

All I have accomplished in all these years are a few Arduinos on order and I just got started reading "getting started with Arduino".

The plan is to use them to control the smoker and cooling fans, but if it goes well there are probably other things that could be animated just because it is possible. I will have to think of something...

Cheers,
/Chris

[Adrian Harris]

I use PICAXE and Arduino boards for everything, as there are different sizes, speeds and voltages to suit all functions. The smaller ones can be built into transmitters and larger ones into the vehicles themselves.

I find I can only write the code once I have a fully formed idea in mind, and can then generate the code to undertake that particular function.

Once you get used to the possibilities and limitations, you start to expand your understanding of what can be achieved.

Having done some animatronic stuff with the Arduino, I would now always use one of the Pololu Maestro boards to control the servos and use the Arduino to control the Pololu.

Adrian.

[Dennis Jones]

I use Pololu to control figures as easy free software to use but you can program in code if you prefer.

Dennis.

[Sam Hough]

Thanks,

It is amazing how many different options there are now and how cheap the stuff is. I'm on the look out for some sort of mechanical simulator so I can play with syncing motion, sounds and lights for recoil, machine gun etc. If not that then maybe mockup with the small servos I've got knocking about.

I'm afraid I misused the word "animatronics". I didn't realise that only related to life like robots"

Cheers

Sam

[Maarten Schutjes]

Maybe this is of use?
I've been reading about the control module TVC-MF-10 HT1 from SGS that has a lot of the desired functions and can be use in 1/6 tanks in conjuction with their TVC-B30 30a dual speedcontroller. Looks impressive and affordacble. Site is in german though.

http://www.sgs-electronic.com/index.php ... =1&lang=de

Here is an english translation of the features of the same controller for smaller scales
http://rctanksaustralia.com/images/sgs/ ... MBT_V2.pdf

[Sam Hough]

They do look quite slick and probably the sensible option. I'm still keen on the tinker factor of full computer...

I'm trying to understand this library http://schteppe.github.io/cannon.js/ so I can simulate the main bits of a tank and play with how to control it.

When I run out of time/skill I'll get my wife to translate the site

Many thanks

Sam