Radio Control System
The Radio Control System comprises a control transmitter unit operated by the user and a receiver with associated components within the robot. The transmitter converts control stick and switch movements into a coded radio signal, transmitted to the receiver in the robot. A microcontroller on the main circuit board decodes the signal and controls robot functions.
Radio Control Operating Instructions
Refer to the radio control transmitter diagram for control locations. Ensure all trim adjustments on the transmitter are centered. Extend the transmitter antenna 1/4 to 1/2 way. Turn on the transmitter first, then the robot's main power switch. The robot requires an active signal at all times; loss of signal will result in loss of full control.
The right joystick controls the robot's drive wheels. Forward movement is achieved by pushing the stick forward, backward by pulling it back, and steering by moving it left or right. Movement is fully proportional, allowing for a wide range of motion combinations. The horizontal and vertical trim tabs near the joystick are for centering and should typically remain in the center position. Adjust these trims only if the robot moves slightly on its own, until it stops.
A charge plug is provided on the transmitter for recharging its internal battery. The transmitter power switch must be off during charging. A charge light on the charger indicates charging status.
Diagram Description: A block diagram illustrates the RC Receiver connected to a Servo Switching Circuit. The receiver outputs control signals for various functions including motor control (left and right), servo control (eyelid, eye movement), and switched channels. The Servo Switching Circuit then controls flashing light circuits, power switches for beacons/light bars, body lights, and auxiliary functions, as well as flashing yellow lights for buses.
RC Transmitter Controls
The following details the controls for the RC transmitter, noting that information may cover a variety of similar robots.
- Power Switch: Controls the power to the transmitter.
- Transmitter Battery Voltage Meter: An expand scale voltmeter indicating battery charge.
- Transmitter Battery Charge Socket: Port for connecting the charger.
- Telescopic Transmitter Aerial: Antenna for transmitting the radio signal.
- Right Control Stick: Controls robot drive motors for forward/reverse movement and steering (left/right turns).
- Forward/Reverse Trim Lever (Right Stick): Centers the drive motors. Adjust if the robot moves slightly on its own.
- Left and Right Turns Trim Tab: Adjusts steering trim.
- Left Control Stick: Controls eye movement (left/right) and siren (up/down).
- Up/Down Trim Tab (Left Stick): Adjusts trim for the left control stick functions.
- Left and Right Trim Lever (Right Stick): Centers the drive motors. Adjust if the robot moves slightly on its own.
- Switch (Left Eyelid): Controls the opening and closing of the left eyelid.
- Switch (Right Eyelid): Controls the opening and closing of the right eyelid.
- Switch (Lights): Controls light functions: Up for light bar/flashing red light, Down for yellow flashing lights (bus) or body lights (other vehicles).
- Switch (Auxiliary): Controls auxiliary functions: Up for optional function, Down for water squirter.
- Mixing Adjustor: Adjusts mixing functions (fully clockwise).
- Mix On-Off: Enables or disables mixing functions (indicated as ON).
- Mixing Adjustor: Another mixing adjustment control (fully clockwise).
- Mix On-Off: Another control for enabling or disabling mixing functions (indicated as ON).
RC Receiver Connection Details
Receiver FM-R8Q
- Power: 5V, Direct Servo Control Connection (not used).
- Power: Channel 8 Auxiliary Servo Channel (option expansion).
- Power: Channel 7 Switched Channel (to servo switching circuit).
- Power: Channel 6 Right Eyelid control.
- Power: Channel 5 Left Eyelid control.
- Power: Channel 4 Eye movement - Left & Right control.
- Power: Channel 3 Switched Channel (to servo switching circuit).
- Power: Channel 2 Drive Motor Control.
- Power: Channel 1 Drive Motor Control.
Plug-in Crystal
- Aerial: For radio signal reception.
The Nickel Metal Hydride (NI-MH) RC Transmitter Battery
The NI-MH RC transmitter battery provides approximately 5-6 hours of operation on a full charge. Charging requires 16 hours. The charge jack is located on the right side of the radio control. Ensure the RC power switch is OFF during charging. A charger light indicates charging is in progress.
Caution: Avoid overcharging, which can permanently damage the batteries. Overcharging is defined as doubling the normal charging time or if the battery becomes hot. If the battery level indicator reaches the red zone, turn off the robot, as erratic behavior may occur without a stable transmitter signal.
To prevent battery depletion during operation, start with a fully charged battery or monitor the remaining charge. An optional 110 Volt RC Power Supply or an extra battery can be used for continuous operation.
NI-MH RC Battery and Charger Specifications
- NI-MH RC transmitter battery: 9.6 Volts, 1300 mAH
- NI-MH RC transmitter battery charger: 11.6 Volts, 130 mA
Adapter for Charging an Extra NI-MH RC Transmitter Battery
An adapter allows for charging an extra NI-MH RC battery externally, useful when the robot is in use or if both batteries need simultaneous charging. The adapter, typically found in the control case or with the charger, has a white connector on one end and connects directly to the battery. Charging time remains 16 hours.
Image Description: A black RC transmitter battery charger unit is shown connected via a black cable to a white cylindrical NI-MH RC transmitter battery pack. The charger unit has a label indicating "RC TRANSMITTER NI-MH BATTERY CHARGER" and "PART# 580009". The battery pack has a label stating "RC TRANSMITTER NI-MH BATTERY 9.6V 1200 MA" and "PART# 580004".
