Some enterprising robotics engineers have managed to turn a Mac Mini computer into a “mobile mac mini”, or M3 for short. According to an article by one of the engineers posted over at MacMod.com, the creation was developed as an entry into the Great Mac Mod Challenge 2006, a yearly competition designed to bring out the best in Mac-related hacks and mods.
The intrepid M3 features a bulldozer-esque four-wheel drive skid steer drivetrain, powered by four DC gear motors. The tires were sourced from an offroad skateboard wheel package, while the whole thing is controlled by custom programming using Mbasic (for the onboard micrcontroller) and RealBasic for the control software.
Here’s a bit more detail about the control system via the M3 project website:
At the moment, we have a simple client application that is launched via the touch screen on the back of the robot. When running, the client listens for connections from another computer (running control software).
The server software allows control over a local area network (we used an XBox 360 remote – sorry guys) of the motors, tilt servo and headlight controls. We also have provision for a compass and gps on the robot.
Check out the detailed M3 project page for more detailed information, including a brief video clip. (Source[s]: MacMods, Engadget) – [Jeff James]
No comments yet.