ROBOTICS

TXT Discovery Set

Welcome to the fischertechnik World of ROBOTICS 4

Some General Information 5
Electricity 5
About this Activity Booklet 5
Robot, Artificial Humans? 6
ROBOTICS, (Almost) Everything Automatic 7
Component Explanations 8
Encoder Motors 8
XS Motor 9
LEDs 9
Lens Tip Lamp 9
Phototransistor 10
Pushbutton 10
Heat Sensor (NTC) 11
Camera Module 11
ROBOTICS TXT Controller 12
A Few Tips 13
First Steps 14
Starter Models 15
Pedestrian light 15
Hand dryer 16
Temperature Control 18
Barrier 19
"Camera Man" 20
Swiveling Camera 22

2
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Mobile Robots - The Next Challenge 23

Mobile Robot 23
Hindrance Detector 27
Hindrance Detector with Camera 28
Trail Searcher 30
Detection Robot 33
Soccer Robot with Movement Control 35
Soccer Robot 38
Trouble Shooting 43
Interface Test 43
Cables and Wiring 43
Loose Connection 43
Short Circuits 44
Power Supply 44
Errors in the Program 44
Camera Function 44
Last Sources for Help 45
And what else can I do? 46

3
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Welcome to the fischertechnik World of ROBOTICS

Hello!
We are happy you have chosen the "ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set" construction set from fisch-
ertechnik. Because with this construction set you
can conduct many interesting experiments and solve
exciting tasks.
Read this digital booklet and try the experiments and
tasks, to learn step-by-step how you can control and program simple
as well as complicated machines and robots using the ROBOTICS TXT
Controller from fischertechnik.
Learning is a process of building things up from a foundation and it
is not possible to start with the most difficult things right away, even
though they may be a little bit more interesting than the more simple
tasks. This is why we have structured the experiments and tasks in this
booklet so that you learn something different with every new task and
can then use this as the basis for the next task.
So don't worry, we will start with small things and then work together to
progress to the big robots.
We hope you have a lot of fun and success now experimenting with your
ROBOTICS TXT Discovery Set.
Your team from

4
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Some General Information

Before we really get started with the construction set, you still need to
know a few things. Even though the components we will work with are
very robust, if you do not handle them properly, they can be damaged
under certain circumstances.

Electricity
As you certainly know, a lot of the components in the ROBOTICS TXT
Discovery Set use electric power. And you know it is necessary to
be particularly careful not to make any mistakes when working with
electrical components. That is why you should always read the assembly
instructions very carefully when wiring the electrical components.
Never connect the positive and negative poles directly to one another to
prevent a short-circuit. This can damage the ROBOTICS TXT Controller
or the rechargeable battery.
The subjects of electricity and electronics are just as
interesting as robotics (which is what this construction
set is about) and there is a construction set from
fischertechnik, which deals specifically with these
subjects. If you are interested in this, you will also have
just as much fun with our "PROFI Electronics" construction set as with
the ROBOTICS TXT Discovery Set.

About this Activity Booklet

This PDF activity booklet has a number of functions, which are not
present in the printed booklet and which may already be familiar to you
from the Internet.

▯▯ Links within the Booklet

When something is mentioned somewhere in the text, which is
explained in more detail at another point in this booklet (for example,
components), the text appears in dark blue and underlined. You can
click on the text to move automatically to the page containing the
explanation. This is called a "cross reference."

5
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

▯▯ Background Infos
In some cases in this booklet, there are terms or foreign words, which
may require explanation. These terms are displayed in green and
underlined. If you touch the text with the mouse pointer, a window
appears with an explanation.
▯▯ Link Outside of this Booklet
A few links require an Internet connection (for example, the
fischertechnik web site), or an installed ROBO Pro (for connection to
the ROBO Pro online help). These terms are displayed in light blue and
underlined.
▯▯ Pictures
A picture is worth a 1000 words. You have certainly heard this
sentence before. And because this certainly contains a lot of truth, you
can display a picture by touching the words in brown and underlined
to see a picture showing what is meant in the text.
▯▯ The ROBO Pro Icon
This is always located in the vicinity of tasks. This makes sense,
because as soon as you click on it, a suitable example program opens
click-me.rpp with a possible solution.
All example programs are listed under C:\Programs (x86)\ROBOPro\
Example programs\ROBO TX Automation Robots. [Translators note:
Have these directory names been programmed in English? If not, they
will have to remain in German.]

Robot, Artificial Humans?

What is your first thought when you hear the word "robot?" Have you
ever seen a robot? In a movie or on television? Or perhaps a real one?
There are many different types of robots. Some robots
look a bit like a human, while others have only one or
more arms. So, what exactly makes a robot a robot?
The dictionary states: "Robots are stationary or mobile
machines, which perform set tasks according to a certain
program."

6
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

ROBOTICS, (Almost) Everything Automatic

Thus, robots are machines controlled by a program. And we call this
control of machines (or in our case models) "ROBOTICS."
The "ROBOTICS TXT Discovery Set" provides you with a wonderful start
to learn about this subject. This is because the construction set contains
everything you need to build and control many different machines.
You can create the programs for control of the models on a PC with the
aid of the ROBO Pro 4.0 (or higher) software and then transfer them to
the ROBOTICS TXT Controller using the USB or Bluetooth connection.
The controller then controls or operates the model according to the
program you have prepared.

7
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Component Explanations

The construction set contains all of the following

First, it contains numerous fischertechnik building blocks, as well as
motors, indicator lights and sensors and colored assembly instructions
for building various models.
After you have unpacked all the building blocks, it is necessary to first
assemble a few components such as cables and plugs before you can
really get started. Details are given in the assembly instructions under
"Assembly Tips." It is best to do this first.

Actuators
Actuators are all components, which can perform some type of action.
This means that they become "active" in some way when they are
connected to electric power. In most cases you can see this directly. A
motor runs, an indicator light illuminates and so forth.

Encoder Motors
We use the two encoder motors, contained in the construction set, to
drive our robots. At first glance, these are normal electric motors,
designed for a voltage of 9 volts and maximum current input of 0.5
amperes.
But the encoder motors can do more: In addition to the connection for
the power supply for the motor, they have another connector for a three-
pin connection cable, which is used in combination with a so-called
encoder to measure the rotation of the motor.
This encoder works the same way as a speedometer on a bicycle. A
magnet (in most cases for a bicycle located on one of the spokes) passes
by a sensor (attached to the fork of the bicycle in most cases) with each
revolution causing the sensor to generate a pulse. These pulses can be
counted, and, in the case of a speedometer, for example, multiplied by
the circumference of the tire. This gives us the distance traveled.
The encoders on the fischertechnik encoder motors generate three
pulses each time the motor shaft revolves once. And because the
encoder motors also have a gearbox with a transmission ratio of 21:1

8
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

(read "21 to 1"), one revolution of the shaft coming out of the gearbox,
corresponds to 21 x 3 = 63 encoder pulses.

XS Motor
The XS motor is an electric motor, exactly as long and high as a
fischertechnik building block. In addition, it is very light. This means, you
can install it at points too small for the big motors.
Both gearboxes included in the construction set fit perfectly on the XS
motor.
The XS motor is designed for a supply voltage of 9 volts and a maximum
current of 0.3 amperes.

LEDs
Two LEDs are contained in the construction set. They can be used in a
variety of ways. For example as signal lights in a traffic light, as flashing
lights on a robot or for better illumination of an image supplied by the
camera also provided in the construction set.
The LEDs are designed for a voltage of 9 volts and consume
approximately 0.01 amperes of current.
Caution!
When connecting LEDs to the power supply, always pay particular
attention to correct polarity. Connect the positive pole to the red
marking on the LED.

Lens Tip Lamp

This incandescent bulb contains a lens to focus the light. It looks very
similar to an LED. Be careful not to mix them up. On the lens tip lamp the
polarity makes no difference - this is why the socket is not marked. You
need the lens tip lamp to build a light barrier in combination with the
phototransistor.
The lens tip lamp is designed for a voltage of 9 volts and current of
approx. 0.15 amperes.

9
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Sensors
Sensors are so to speak the counterpart to the actuators. This is because
they do not perform any actions, but react to certain situations and
events. For example, a pushbutton reacts when pressed, allowing an
electric current to flow or interrupting its flow. A heat sensor reacts to
the temperature in its surroundings.

Phototransistor
Phototransistors are also called "light sensors“. This is a "feeler" that
reacts to brightness.
For a light barrier this is the counterpart to the lens tip lamp. When
there is a high degree of brightness, that is when the transistor receives
light from the lens tip lamp, it conducts electricity. If the beam of light is
interrupted, it does not conduct any electricity.
Caution!
When connecting the phototransistor to the power supply, pay
particular attention to correct polarity. Connect the positive pole to
the red marking on the phototransistor.

Pushbutton
The pushbutton could also be called a touch sensor. Pressing the red
button actuates a switch mechanically allowing electricity to flow from
contact 1 (middle contact) to contact 3. At the same time the circuit
between contacts 1 and 2 is interrupted. So you can use the pushbutton
in two different ways:
As a "normally open switch" (NO or push-to-make switch)
Contacts 1 and 3 are connected. 3
Pushbutton switch pressed: Electricity flows.
When the pushbutton is not pressed: 1
Electricity does not flow 2

As a "normally closed switch" (NC or push-to-break switch)

Contacts 1 and 2 are connected. 3
Pushbutton switch pressed: No electricity flows.
1
When the pushbutton is not pressed:
Electricity flows. 2

10
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Heat Sensor (NTC)

This component is a heat sensor for measuring temperatures. At 20 °C
its electrical resistance is 1.5 kΩ (kilo ohms, but pronounced 'kil-ohms').
NTC stands for Negative Temperature Coefficient. This simply means
that the resistance value decreases when the temperature increases.

The information provided by the sensors, for example, bright/dark,

pressed/not pressed and temperature value, can, as we will see later,
be transmitted by the ROBOTICS TXT Controller to a PC where it can be
used in combination with the software to program a motor to drive a fan
when a light barrier is interrupted.

Camera Module
The camera module is a particularly versatile type of sensor. The image
resolution is 1 megapixel (meaning that each image consists of one
million image dots). Connect the camera to the large USB port (USB1)
on your ROBOTICS TXT Controller. The images from the camera can be
transferred to the PC and viewed on the monitor. This allows you to see
what your robot is doing at any particular time. Moreover the ROBOTICS
TXT Controller can process the images thereby recognizing motion,
colors and tracks, allowing you to control your robot model accordingly.
It is also possible to connect the camera directly to a USB interface
on your PC and process the images with the ROBO Pro software. This
possibility is also used by a few models.
You can focus the camera image by turning the camera lens.

ROBO Pro 4.x Software

ROBO Pro is a graphic programming interface for creating programs for
the ROBOTICS TXT Controller.
A "graphic programming interface" allows you to compile programs
visually with the aid of graphic symbols instead of "writing" them out by

11
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

hand line for line. An example of such a program is shown at the left.
The procedure for creating such a program is described in detail in the
Chapter "First Steps". The ROBO Pro Help feature also shows how this
works in Chapters 3 and 4.
This software has already been installed on your PC together with this
activity booklet.

ROBOTICS TXT Controller

The ROBOTICS TXT Controller is the heart of this ROBOTICS
construction set. It controls actuators, and evaluates the information
from the sensors.
For this purpose the ROBOTICS TXT Controller has numerous terminals
for connection to the components. The instruction manual for the
ROBOTICS TXT Controller describes which components can be
connected to which connections and the functions of the connections.

The color touch screen allows convenient operation of your ROBOTICS

TXT Controller. The camera contained in the construction set can be
connected to the USB host port (USB-1). The integrated Bluetooth and
WLAN interface is a particularly interesting special feature. It allows you
to complete a wireless link between your PC and the ROBOTICS TXT
Controller.
You can define how the controller interacts with the individual
components and what they are to do in detail in the program you write
with the ROBO Pro software.

Power Supply (not included)

As you know, many of the components in the ROBOTICS TXT Discovery
Set need electricity to operate, so naturally you also need a power
supply.
The fischertechnik Accu Set is best suited for this. It is not included in
the construction set.

12
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

A Few Tips
Experimenting makes the most fun when the experiments also work.
This is why you should follow a few basic rules when building the
models.

Work carefully
Take your time and look precisely at the assembly instructions for the
model. If you have to look for an error later, this will take much longer.

Check the movement of all parts

When putting models together continually check to see if parts, which
have to move, move easily.

Use Interface Test

Before starting to write a program for a model, you should test all parts
connected to the ROBOTICS TXT Controller, using the interface test
feature in ROBO Pro. How this works is described in the ROBO Pro help
in Chapter 2.4.

13
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

First Steps
Now that you have made all of the
preparations and read the information, you can
finally start working.
This chapter describes how to:
▯▯ build the first simple model, a ventilating fan, and connect it to the
ROBOTICS TXT Controller,
▯▯ connect the ROBOTICS TXT Controller to the power supply and PC,
▯▯ load the ROBO Pro Software and test the model,
▯▯ load and start a ROBO Pro program, and
▯▯ create and start your first simple program with ROBO Pro
Click here, to see the first, easy-to-understand steps.

Since you will be working particularly with the

ROBO Pro Software in addition to the fischertechnik
components themselves, you should be familiar with the
details for writing programs. And because this is explained
very clearly in Chapters 3 and 4 of the ROBO Pro Help, it
is best at this point to continue by working through these
chapters carefully.
The following tip also applies here: Take your time and
concentrate; then you will have that much more fun with the models
later.

14
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Starter Models
After reading through Chapters 3 and 4 in the ROBO Pro Help, you will
be able to program some of the models in the construction set. Let's get
started. ROBO Pro has various levels, which you can select on the menu
bar. We will start with very simple programs at Level 1. Whenever you
have finished building and wiring a model, check whether all inputs and
outputs on the ROBOTICS TXT Controller are properly connected and if
the sensors, motors and lights all function properly with the aid of the
interface test.

Pedestrian light
A pedestrian light has been installed in front
of your house. Since the technician from the
traffic light company doesn't have much time,
you offer to program the traffic light control for him.
The man explains to you how the control is supposed to work. But first,
build the model.

Task: (Level1)
The traffic light should be red initially. When pushbutton I1 is
pressed by a pedestrian the traffic light should change to yellow
three seconds later and after an additional four seconds to red.
The green phase is to last for 10 seconds, before the light
turns red again.

Programming Tips:
The various LEDs are associated with the following outputs on the TXT
Controller.
▯▯ Red – M1
▯▯ Green – M2
Turn the indicator lights on and off one after another to obtain the
desired sequence.

You can load the finished program by clicking on the picture on the
right. Pedestrian_light.rpp

15
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Hand dryer
In the bathroom at your school, new hand
dryers have been installed next to the
sinks. These are equipped with light barriers for
switching the fan on and off.
First, build the model as described in the assembly instructions.

Task 1: (Level 1)
Now it is necessary to program the hand dryer so that as soon as
the light barrier is interrupted the fan switches on and then
back off again after 5 seconds.

Programming Tips:
In the program sequence first switch on the light for the light barrier at
output M2.
Then wait one second to allow the phototransistor time to react to the
light. The light barrier should then work properly.
Then check (interrogate) the phototransistor at Input I1. If the value
is "1" (light barrier not interrupted), the input should be interrogated
continuously in a loop.
As soon as the value changes to "0" (light barrier interrupted), switch
motor M1 on and then back off after 5 seconds.
Then return to the loop for interrogating the phototransistor.
Start the program with the start button and check whether it works the
way you want. If it does work right, you're on your way to becoming a
professional ROBO Pro programmer.
If it doesn't work, try to find out why.
The interface test allows you to check whether all inputs and outputs
work properly and if they are connected correctly.
While the program is running, you can follow the program sequence
with the red building blocks. This allows you to quickly see where an
error has crept in.

16
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Finally you can compare your program with the finished example
program, which can be called with the icon on the right.
Hand dryer_1.rpp

After you have taken this hurdle, we want to change the task slightly:

Task 2: (Level 1)
The school principal is always interested in saving energy and
doesn't like the hand dryer to continue running after your hands are
dry. He asks you to rewrite the program so that the fan shuts off as
soon as you pull back your hands. That's not a problem for you,
is it?

Programming Tips:
As in the first program, it is necessary to interrogate the phototransistor
I1. If the value is "0," switch motor M1 on and if the value is "1" switch
motor M1 off and so forth.

For this task, there is also a complete program just in case:

Hand dryer_2.rpp

17
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Temperature Control
At home where you live, a new air
conditioning system has been installed. Of
course, you immediately asked the plumber
how the temperature control works. He was happy to explain
to you that a temperature sensor continually measures the temperature.
As soon as a maximum value is exceeded, the air conditioning is
switched on. However, if the temperature is below the minimum value,
the air conditioning is switched off and the heating turned on. Now
you need to try to program a control circuit based on the "temperature
control" model. But first, build the model.

Task: (Level 1)
The heating is simulated by lens tip lamp M2. The fan at output M1
serves as the "air conditioning unit". An NTC thermistor at input I8 is
used to measure the temperature.
Program the model so that above a certain temperature value the
heating is shut off and the fan is turned on. This is to cool the house
until a minimum value is reached. Then the fan is to be shut off
and the heating turned on.

Programming Tips:
Please note! The resistance of the NTC thermistor decreases with
increasing temperature. Therefore, the upper temperature limit is
the smallest value for I8. The fan should switch on when this limit is
reached. The lower temperature limit is the largest value for I8. The
heating should switch on when this limit is reached.
You can see the value of I8 at room temperature using the interface test.
Turn on the indicator light M2 and observe how much the value
decreases. Now switch on the fan to find out how much the value
increases. Use this as a basis for selecting the limits for heating and
cooling.

You can open the finished program by clicking on the icon on the
right. Temperature_control.rpp

18
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Barrier
Such a barrier is frequently located at the
entrance or exit to a parking lot. First, build
the model as described in the assembly
instructions.
Our barrier could be at the exit.

Task: (Level 2)
When a car approaches the barrier, it interrupts a light barrier. This
should open the barrier, leave it open a certain time (e.g. 5 seconds)
and then close it again; however only when the light barrier is not
interrupted, because otherwise the barrier could damage a car
located exactly below the bar. The traffic light should turn green to
show the car driver that the barrier is open and red when it is
closed.

Programming Tips:
Use a subroutine for the "opening" and "closing" operations for the
barrier (see also ROBO Pro Help Chap. 4).
For this purpose set ROBO Pro to Level 2.

You can open the finished program by clicking on the icon on the
right.
Barrier.rpp

19
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

"Camera Man"
Now we want to take a look at the interesting subject
of cameras and image processing for the first time in this
activity booklet. For this purpose build the "camera man"
model as described in the assembly instructions and connect
the camera directly to your PC with a USB cable. The camera
will be recognized and the associated camera driver installed
automatically.
Now start the ROBO Pro software.

Task 1:
Place the camera man in front of your PC and let ROBO Pro show
you what the camera "sees".

Programming Tips:
To do this it is not even necessary to write a ROBO Pro program. Simply
open a new program in ROBO Pro, go to the "camera" tab, set the
camera connection to "PC" there and click "Switch on camera".
You can focus the image by turning the lens on the camera.

Task 2: (Level 3)
Now you can program the camera man to react to motion. As soon
as someone walks through the image, a red light connected to
output M1 should flash three times on the TXT Controller.

Programming Tips:
Connect the TXT Controller to your PC using a second USB interface.
Connect an LED with red cover to output M1 on the TXT Controller.
Switch to level 3 in ROBO Pro. Refer to the ROBO Pro Help in Chap. 5 to
see the additional functions available there.

20
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Draw a rectangle of the desired size in the camera "Motion" sensor field
in ROBO Pro.

The interactive field for motion recognition, which can be opened by

right-clicking with the mouse on the inserted sensor field, allows you to
set how intense the motion must be to actuate the sensor and how
extensive the motion must be in relation to the entire sensor field, for it
to react. The best way is to try it with the default values first and then
later change the settings to see the reaction.
Create a routine in ROBO Pro for checking whether the sensor
field has recognized a motion. To interrogate the sensor field,
use the camera input element from Level 3 in ROBO Pro and
use a loop to check whether motion is present.
Interrogation of "Motion C" input (Change contrast). Is the
value >0? If so, the light should flash.
Further information on the camera sensor fields is given in
ROBO Pro Help Chap. 11.
You can open the finished example program here.
Camera_man.rpp

21
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Swiveling Camera
Next you can build a surveillance camera for your
room. First, build the model as described in the
assembly instructions.

Task: (Level 3)
This camera is driven by an encoder motor to repeatedly turn
it slightly before checking if anything moves in the room. If so,
it should trigger an alarm on the TXT Controller loudspeaker; if
nothing moves, it should continue to turn slightly before checking
again.
After reaching the end of the swivel range, it should return to its
initial position in small increments.

Programming Tips:
The camera should first move to its initial position (until pushbutton I1 is
depressed).
Then it should repeatedly move a certain number of pulses in the other
direction. You can easily check how many pulses are practical per
rotation with the aid of the interface tests.
Use the camera "Motion" sensor element to check whether anything
changes in the image. If so, trigger an alarm on the TXT Controller
loudspeaker, see (ROBO Pro Help).
Repeat this operation until the camera reaches the end of its swivel
range, then move back in the other direction to limit switch I1.

Here is our solution for this task:

Swiveling_camera.rpp

This model can be operated independently of the PC in the download

mode.
It is the perfect surveillance camera to keep trespassers out of your
room.

22
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Mobile Robots - The Next Challenge

Mobile Robot
With this model, we want to find out
together how you can control a moving
robot. How do you get it to move, how does
the steering work and can you perhaps improve its
precision? We will answer these questions with the help of the tasks in
this chapter.
But first of course, you have to put the robot together. As always, you
will find the description in the assembly instructions.
Take your time putting it together. Look closely at the drawings in the
assembly instructions and the wiring as well. If you do not connect
the components to the ROBOTICS TXT Controller as described in the
assembly instructions, the robot may not behave like you expect.
After assembly, check all components connected to the ROBOTICS TXT
Controller with the ROBO Pro software interface test. When the motors
turn counterclockwise, the robot should move forwards.

Direction of rotation, Direction of rotation,

Direction of motion
motor 1 motor 2
Forwards Left Left
Backwards Right Right
Left Left Right
Right Right Left
Stop Stop Stop

Task 1: Simply Straight Ahead

Have the robot move straight ahead for 3 seconds (not on a table,
danger of falling off!) and then straight back for 3 seconds.
Did the robot really come back to its starting point?
Repeat the program several times and observe if the robot real-
ly moves precisely straight ahead and back.

23
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Programming Tips:
Even if this task is easy for you, we would like to make a few
suggestions:
Mobile_robot_1.rpp

The Steering
Even if it is fun to watch the robot move straight ahead, it is somewhat
monotonous. That's why, it is now time to learn to move in a curve. And
how is that done? Very simple:

Task 2: Also moving in a curve

Let the robot move straight ahead again for three seconds (both
motors turning at the same speed) then change the direction of
rotation of the right motor (M1) for one second and then let the
robot move straight ahead again for three seconds (meaning both
motors at the same speed in the same direction).
Find out how long you have to let the motors run in different
directions to make the robot turn 90°.

Programming Tips:
For this, change the waiting time after the command for changing the
direction of the second motor.
You can open the finished program as usual by clicking on the
icon on the right. Mobile_robot_2.rpp

Task 3: Moving through a figure

Now that you know how long it is necessary to reverse the direction
of rotation of a motor to make the robot turn to the right or left,
program the robot so that it moves in a rectangle, returning to its
starting position.
Make a mark to check if the robot really moves precisely to its
starting position.

24
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Programming Tips:
You can create a subroutine for "turning a corner." This keeps the main
program clearer.

You probably already have the solution to the task in your head.
But here is another recommendation, just in case:
Mobile_robot_3.rpp

Always the same, but not exactly?

You have probably noticed that the repetition accuracy of the robot
could be improved. Even when it performs precisely the same task
several times, the result is not always the same. This is due to various
reasons. One of these is that both motors do not rotate at exactly the
same speed. For example, the gearbox for one motor can run with more
friction than the other motor. And because both motors are operated at
the same voltage (nine volts), this makes one motor rotate slower than
the other. Since, in the past, we have controlled our robot using waiting
times, perhaps one wheel has rotated farther during this time than the
other one.
Thus, the solution would be to have both motors rotate at exactly the
same speed. And this is precisely what encoder motors do.

Task 4: Using Encoder Motors

Repeat the last task using the encoder motor elements instead of
the normal motor output and waiting time elements. How to
use these is described in the ROBO Pro help in Chap. 12.6.

Programming Tip:
With the encoder motor element you can control both motors
simultaneously with one program element. With the distance entry field
you can set each motor to turn exactly the distance it is supposed to.

25
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

You can open the solution suggestions as usual by clicking on the

icons on the right.
Mobile_robot_1_sync.rpp

Mobile_robot_2_sync.rpp

Mobile_robot_3_sync.rpp

An additional program element is not required in ROBO Pro to count the

pulses at the high speed counter inputs C1-C4. The counter input C1 is
automatically assigned internally to motor M1; M2 is connected to C2
and so forth.
Note: If the model does not move straight ahead in spite of using the
encoder motor elements the cause can be the model itself. For example,
if a hub nut, which transfers the force from the axle to the wheels, is not
tight enough the axle slips and the model moves in a curve even though
the motors are rotating at the same speed. Therefore be sure the hub
nuts are tightened well.

26
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Hindrance Detector
Your robot can now move straight ahead
and turn. And up to now it does this
precisely as described in your program.
However, a robot should actually be
able to react as independently as
possible. This is why we now want to
have it react to obstacles with the aid a bumper.
First, build the model as described in the assembly instructions.

Task:
The hindrance detector should move straight ahead. As soon as
it hits an obstacle with its left bumper, it should stop, move back
a short distance, turn slightly to the right and then continue to
move straight ahead. If it hits an obstacle with its right bumper,
it should move around the obstacle to the left in the same
manner.

Programming Tips:
Left bumper: Pushbutton I6; Right bumper: Pushbutton I5
Use a subroutine for each of the various actions: forwards / reverse, go
around to left / right.
Ensure that the robot does not move the same number of pulses when
moving to the right and to the left; otherwise it could get into a corner
and not be able to get out. However if the number of pulses is different,
it will be able to work its way out of a corner.
You can find the finished program here:
Hindrance_detector.rpp

27
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Hindrance Detector with Camera

Now you can equip your mobile robot
with a camera so it can see where it
is going and allow you to control it by
remote control. To do this simply take
the hindrance detector and install a
camera as described in the assembly
instructions. The camera can be connected to
the USB-1 interface on the TXT Controller.

Task 1:
First the robot should behave in exactly the same manner as the
hindrance detector without camera. In addition it should stop
and turn around when you hold a red card in front of it.

Use the camera "Color" sensor field for color recognition and draw it
large enough that its area covers the major portion of the camera image.
Then set the robot parameters so that it moves straight ahead as long as
a red card is not detected and no hindrance is present. You can use the
hindrance detection from the "Hindrance detector program".
It is best to use your own subroutine for checking the color. Check the
camera input to determine if the red value is greater than green and blue
and if the color is lighter than black.
Use the small red card cut from the large cutting template in the
construction set.
The "sensor values" in the camera window in ROBO Pro show the color
value for the red card.
Again you can see our solution here:
Hindrance_detector_camera_1.rpp
Note:
Avoid direct sunlight. The robot may confuse sunlight with the red card.
Particularly bright sunlight with a high percentage of red.

28
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Task 2: Remote control of robot

Note: This task requires a WLAN connection between the
TXT Controller and your PC. The process for completing this
connection is described in the instruction manual for the TXT
Controller.

Tips:
After successfully completing the WLAN connection, open the
appropriate program with the icon.
Hindrance_detector_camera_2.rpp
Change to the control panel and look for the
interface for remote control of the model there.
Start the program in the online mode. Now you can use the various
buttons on the remote control to control the robot and you can also see
where it is going. If you overlook an obstacle, it will be detected by the
bumper and the model will automatically move back a short distance.

Have fun exploring the area!

29
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Trail Searcher
With this model the camera is used
to make the robot move along a line.
The amazing part of trail searching
with the camera is that, in addition
to recognizing whether a track is
present, it can also detect its precise position
and output it in the camera image. This allows the robot
to react and either move straight ahead, when the trail is exactly in the
middle of the image or correct its motion to the left or right, when the
trail is not in the middle.
The objective is for the robot to find the black line and move along it.
But one thing at a time. First, it is necessary build the trail searcher
model. Naturally the assembly instructions describe how to do this.
After you have completed the model, you should check it with the
interface test to ensure that all components are properly connected to
the ROBOTICS TXT Controller and are working correctly.

Task 1: Recognition of a trail

Program the robot so that it follows a straight black trail when
placed on it. If it loses the trail or it ends, the robot should stop.
Use the obstacle course from the construction set for this task.

Programming Tips:
Use the obstacle course from the construction set to test the black trail.
Set the camera so that the trail is in proper focus in the ROBO Pro
camera window.
Use the camera "Line" sensor field for detecting the trail. It consists of a
straight line in the camera image, located across the image from left to
right with a scale from -100 to +100. 0 is precisely in the middle.

30
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Further information on the camera "Line" sensor field is given in

ROBO Pro Help Chap. 11.
Now you can check the position of the trail in your program.
▯▯ If it is located between –10 and +10 the robot should move straight
ahead (M1 and M2 = left: v = 5)
▯▯ Between –11 and –40 it should correct slightly to the left
(M1left: v = 5, M2 left: v = 2)
▯▯ Between +11 and +40 it should correct slightly to the right
(M1left: v = 2, M2 left: v = 5)
▯▯ At values < –40 it should correct strongly to the left
(M1left: v = 5, M2 right, v = 3)
▯▯ At values > +40 it should correct strongly to the right
(M1right: v = 3, M2 left, v = 5)
▯▯ If it looses the trail, it should stop.

You can find the finished program here:

Trail_searcher_1.rpp

Your robot can now react. However it would be even better if your robot
would turn around at the end of the trail instead of just stopping.

31
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Task 2: Turning around at the end of the trail and following it

back
Expand your program to include a function, so that when the
robot gets off the trail it turns around and returns.

Programming Tips:
There are several possibilities for correcting the direction. You can stop
one motor and let the other one continue to run or have one motor
rotate opposite the direction of movement. Experiment to determine
which method is better.

Here is our suggested solution:

Trail_searcher_2.rpp

So! Now your robot can move on visual "rails". The only disadvantage is
that you first have to set it on the rail. We want to change this. The robot
should search for its trail on its own.

Task 3: Finding the trail and following it

Write a "search" subroutine to make the robot search for a black
trail if it does not find one when the program starts. For this
purpose, the robot is to first move in a circle for one time. If it does
not find a trail when it does this it should move straight ahead for a
short distance. As soon as the robot detects a trail, it should follow
it. If this doesn't, the search should start over from the beginning.
After it has moved in a circle 10 times without finding a trail, it
should stop and flash three times.

Programming Tips:
In case you are not exactly on the right trail, here is our suggested
solution: Trail_searcher_3.rpp

32
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Detection Robot
On this model we now want to combine a
number of camera functions. The robot
should be able to look forward to detect
its surroundings, however it should
also be capable of looking down and
following the various colored trails on the obstacle
course included. Moreover it should also collect the
"temperature data" for its surroundings using its NTC thermistor.
First, build the model as described in the assembly instructions.

Task 1: The robot should function as follows:

First place it on the black trail. It should move along it to its end.
Then it should turn around and move in the opposite direction. After
reaching the end of the black trail where the trail is wider, it should
raise the camera and look forward. If you then hold a red or green
card in front of it, it should first follow the black trail and then turn
on to the red or green trail. Before moving off, it again measures
the ambient temperature and sends it to the TXT Controller
display.

You can cut the small colored cards out of the large cutting template in
the construction set
Programming Tips:
This program is intended to show you everything that is possible with
ROBO Pro. Since we know that programming is not all that
simple, just load the prepared program and try it out:
Detection_robot.rpp

Task 2:
The "Trail" subroutine is responsible for controlling the encoder
motor while following a trail. Compare it with the subroutine
from the trail searcher model. What differences do you see?

33
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Solution:
The subroutine for the detection robot is considerably more complicated
than for the trail searcher. It contains a control function which makes
the degree to which the direction is corrected dependent on the
distance from the middle of the trail. In comparison, the trail searcher
differentiated only between straight ahead, minor correction and major
correction. Creating such a control function requires a great deal of
programming experience (such as our professional programmers have).
But the control results are also significantly better than with the trail
searcher model. In the future you can simply use this subroutine for your
own programs, and be happy that it works so well.

Task 3:
If you have a smartphone (with Android operating system), you can
use it to control the detection robot. You can download the app for
this from the Google Playstore. It is called "TXTCamdroid“. Connect
the TXT Controller to your smart phone via WLAN to get started.
You can see what the camera sees on your smartphone display.
You can control the model with different keys and send it on
discovery trips. Have fun!

34
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Soccer Robot with Movement Control

Have you ever heard about the Robo Cup? This is
the Soccer World Cup for robots. It is held in a
different country every year. There are various
leagues for various types of robots.
Detailed information is available on
the Robo Cup homepage http://www.
robocup.org
Two suggestions for construction of a
soccer robot are given in the assembly instructions.
It is just as agile as our other robots, but in addition it has a
light barrier for detecting a ball and triggering a "kicking mechanism."
Now we can equip and control the robots with the camera in a number
of different ways.
First, build the soccer robot with movement control as described in the
assembly instructions.
Then you can program it and "train" it to perform a few ball tricks. And,
as always you should use the interface test to see if the model functions
properly before starting the programming.
Use the orange table tennis ball included in the construction set for the
ball.
Note: It may be necessary to adjust the pushbutton, used as a
limit switch for the lever on the actuating mechanism, so that it is
depressed when the lever is forward, however does not block the lever
simultaneously.
With this robot the camera is located on its own stand next to the model,
not installed on the model itself. It should be plugged directly in to the
USM port on the PC.

35
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Task 1: "There, he has the ball and shoots . . ."

The first step is to teach the electronic ball wizard to shoot the ball
as soon as it is detected by the light barrier. Experiment a little
with the "shooting speed." A short pause between "detection"
and "shooting" may possibly lead to an improvement.

Programming Tips:
For this task it is first necessary to connect the TXT Control to your PC
using the USB cable.
As with the hand dryer you should wait a few seconds after the
lens tip lamp switches on before checking the phototransistor on the
light barrier.

Being a trainer is not easy. If your robot player does not obey you,
perhaps you can get its attention with our program suggestion.
Soccer_robot_movement_control_1.rpp

But since a real ball wizard should be able to do more than just a penalty
shootout, we want to expand the capabilities of our soccer robot a bit.

Task 2: Motion control for soccer robot

Now we want to program the soccer robot to react to motions you
make in front of the camera. When you wave with your left hand, it
should move to the left; if you wave with your right hand it should
turn to the right. If you wave with both hands in the middle of the
image, it should move straight ahead. When the light barrier
detects the ball, it should shoot, naturally in to the goal if
possible.

Programming Tips:
Note: For this task it is necessary to connect the TXT Control to your PC
via WLAN or Bluetooth.
Even though this task may sound somewhat difficult initially, you have
already used most of the functions for this program with your other
robots.

36
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Use three camera "Motion" sensor fields for control of the motion.
Position one of these in the middle of the camera image, one on the left
and one on the right. Place the camera in front of your monitor where
you can easily reach the three areas in the camera window with your
arms without the sensor fields reacting unintentionally. For this purpose
place the fields preferably in the upper half of the camera surface.
Then simply have your program interrogate the three sensor fields to
determine which of the fields has detected motion and actuate the robot
accordingly to move to the left, right or straight ahead. You have already
programmed the shooting mechanism in Task 1. You can integrate this
into your program.
Then start the program in the ROBO Pro online mode. The camera
image is transferred to the PC over the USB interface; the robot control
is wireless via Bluetooth or WLAN.
For this model you only need the goal from the soccer stadium included
with the construction set. You could also use the "side boards" to
keep the ball from rolling away. However they are actually required for
orientation of the robot only after building the next model. And now,
have fun "waving" and shooting goals.

Once again we also have a recommended solution for this

program. Soccer_robot_movement_control_2.rpp

* see also ROBO Pro Help, Chap. 11.

37
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Soccer Robot
Although it is very amusing to control the
soccer robot by waving your arms, a real
soccer robot should be able to kick the
ball in to the goal by itself. Now we want
to teach him to do this by installing the
camera directly on the robot.
Once again the assembly instructions
describe how to do this.
Connect the camera to the USB-1 interface on the TXT Controller.
The entire soccer stadium is required for this model. It consists of the
unprinted, white rear, you already used for the obstacle course for the
trail searcher and the detection robot as well as the sideboards printed
with black stripes and the goal.
The robot needs the pure white background to detect the orange ball
with the camera "Ball" sensor field.
The black stripes on the sideboards, which have a different appearance
on each side, allow the robot to detect where it is on the playing field
and where the goal is. The stripes on the rear wall of the goal show the
robot where to shoot, when it has the ball.

Task 1:
As with the detection robot, this robot is not easy to program.
Therefore start by trying out the program provided by loading it
on the TXT Controller.

Here is our suggested solution:

Soccer_robot.rpp

Tips:
Adjust the lens on the camera so that the stripes on the goal sideboards
in the stadium are focused when the robot is at the opposite end of the
stadium.

38
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Position the robot in the stadium and then throw a ball on to the playing
field. The robot will search for the ball, attempt to catch it and shoot it in
the direction of the goal as soon as it has turned to face the goal. With a
little luck the robot will shoot the ball in to the goal.

Task 2:
Try to understand how the ball detection works based on the
description in the ROBO Pro help.

Solution:
The "Ball" sensor field detects a colored ball on the white background.
It outputs the position of the center point of the ball in the sensor field.
See also ROBO Pro Help, Chap. 11.

Similar to the trail searcher, 0 is exactly in the middle between right and
left. In the vertical direction the value goes from 0 to an automatically
calculated maximum height. The robot selects its direction of motion
depending on where the ball is located.

39
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Task 3:
Which camera sensor element does the program use to
evaluate stripes on the sideboards?

Solution:
The "line" sensor element is used. In contrast to the trail searcher, three
line sensors are located from top to bottom in the camera window to
detect the three horizontal stripes on the sideboards. The robot uses
their width to calculate where it is presently located and where it needs
to move to.
Moreover the stripes allow it to recognize when it is too close to the
sideboard and to stop before colliding with the sideboard.

Task 4:
Two "Exclusion" sensor fields are present in the ROBO Pro
camera window for this robot. Can you imagine what these
are for?

Solution: These sensor fields supplement the sensor field for ball
recognition. The exclusion areas are not evaluated when looking for the
ball. This can be helpful, when objects such as the phototransistor for
the soccer robot are located in the image and could be mistaken for the
ball.

40
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

How does the robot find its way around the playing field?
Maybe you have wondered how the robot finds its way around the
playing field using the stripe codes on the sideboards. As a matter
of fact, this is not a simple operation, but it works according to the
following principle.

In fact the robot is capable of determining its position on the playing

field to an accuracy of approximately 2 cm and an angle of approx. 5
degrees based on the sideboards. For this purpose the robot measures
the height of the sideboards at various points and uses this height to
calculate the distances and then finally the angle and absolute position.
This process is known as triangulation.

The sideboards always have 3 black stripes with 2 white stripes in

between. One of the black stripes is wider than the other stripes. This
allows the robot to recognize which sideboard is which. All totaled there
are 5 different sideboard patterns, one for each side of the playing field
and one for the goal.

Moreover the robot uses the counting pulses from the encoder motors
to calculate the position and angle between triangulation operations.
This process is known as odometry. Odometry is more precise for
short times and distances. However it has the disadvantage that errors
accumulate in the course of time. For this reason the data obtained by
odometry is corrected using the data from triangulation.

The soccer robot program has two subroutines for these calculations:
the triangulation and odometry subroutines. If you would like, take a
closer look at them. But don't be alarmed! They look pretty complicated;
and they are.

If everything looks too theoretical for you, don't worry. Simply use the
program provided, be amazed at how it works and make a bet with your
friends, how many times the robot will have to try before making a goal.

41
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Here are a few more tips on the playing field:

Ensure that a large gap is not present between the floor and the
sideboards. Otherwise the camera could think the gap is a stripe and the
calculation of the position would be wrong.
To prevent this it is important for you to fold the edges exactly and
ensure that the playing field is placed on a level surface. In addition
you can also place books or other objects along the outsides of the
sideboards to help hold them down.
If the ball continuously rolls toward one corner or frequently stops
against one of the sideboards, you can level the playing field by placing
flat objects such as newspapers, school notebooks, cardboard, etc.
under the corners so the ball will roll back to the middle instead of
stopping against the sideboard. This will put more action in to the game!

42
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Trouble Shooting
If things don't work right from the very start there is
usually a simple reason. But, it is not always easy to
find. That's why we want to give you some information
here about possible sources of errors.
Interface Test
Once again here our advice: Check each individual component for
proper function with the aid of the ROBO Pro interface tests.
Cables and Wiring
If an electrical component does not work at all, check the cable used to
connect it to the ROBOTICS TXT Controller again. For this purpose use
the cable to connect the lens tip lamp to the battery. If the bulb lights up
the cable should be okay.
Another source of errors are incorrectly installed plugs (for example, a
green plug on a red cable).
Also check that "+" and "-" are correctly connected. For this purpose,
compare your model with the illustrations in the assembly instructions.
Loose Connection
A component, which works sometimes and doesn't work at other
times, probably has a loose connection somewhere in the wiring for the
component.
The most frequent causes for this are:
▯▯ Loose Plugs
When the plugs for the cables are too loose, that is wobbly in the jack
sockets, they do not provide sufficient contact. In this case you can
carefully bend the contact springs apart at the front on the affected
connectors using a screwdriver. Just a little, so the plugs are held
firmly in the jack sockets when you plug them in.
▯▯ Poor Contact between Cable and Plug
Also check the contact between the stripped ends of the cable in the
connector and the connector itself. It may be sufficient to tighten the
screws in the connector slightly.

43
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Short Circuits
When a positive and negative connection touch one another you have a
short circuit. The battery as well as the ROBOTICS TXT Controller have
a built-in fuse to keep them from being damaged by a short circuit. They
simply switch off the power supply for a while. Naturally, your model will
not work anymore either.
The cause for a short circuit can be either a mistake in the wiring or
screws which have not been tightened sufficiently in the connectors.
They can touch when the connectors are plugged in, causing a short
circuit. That's why you should always completely screw in the screws
and plug in the plugs so that the screws cannot touch each other.
Power Supply
Short interruptions or motors, which run too slowly, usually indicate a
low battery. In this case, you should charge the rechargeable battery
with the battery charger. The battery is completely charged when the
red LED on the charger stops flashing and illuminates continuously.
Errors in the Program
Even if no one likes to admit it: Everyone makes mistakes. And especially
with complex programs, an error can creep in quite quickly.
If your model still doesn't do what you want it to after you have checked
everything on the model itself and have remedied any faults, you should
also check your program. Go through it line for line to see if you can find
the error.
You can also watch the program running on the monitor in the online
mode, which means with the ROBOTICS TXT Controller connected to
the PC. The program element active at any given moment is highlighted
allowing you to always see the point where the program is and where
the error occurs.
Camera Function
The camera works best when the light is good.
Light too low: It cannot recognize color or motion in the dark.
Remedy: LEDs to illuminate the camera field of vision.
Light too bright: Excessive light - direct sunlight for example - changes
the color value and contrast so that the line detector can no longer
recognize the lines satisfactorily.

44
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Remedy: Avoid direct sunlight or reduce the light by pulling the drapes
or closing the shutters.
Other remedies: Use the software to adapt the camera properties.
This can be accomplished with the ROBO Pro software in the property
fields for the camera sensors. Here it is possible, for example, to set the
sensitivity for recognition of an object and adapt it to the surroundings.
Details are given in ROBO Pro Help Chapter 11.
Last Sources for Help
If, in spite of all this, you have not found the error, there are still two
possibilities for obtaining help:
▯▯ Email Help
Send an email to fischertechnik describing the problem.
Our email address is: [email protected].
▯▯ Internet Help
You can also visit our web site on the Internet at http://www.
fischertechnik.de. The site includes a forum where you are certain
to find help. In addition, you can also become a member of the
fischertechnik Fan Club at no charge.

45
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

And what else can I do?

Not finished yet Was that everything? No, of course not. The experiments
and models you tried out in this booklet should only be the
beginning. Your "first attempts to walk" so to speak in the
gigantic and exciting realm of "ROTBOTICS".

Fantasy What we have shown you here is only a very small portion
of the possibilities offered by your ROBOTICS TXT Controller
and the fischertechnik components. And now it is your turn.
You can give your fantasy free rein and simply build what
you feel like.

Changing the If you don't have any ideas for your own complete
present model then just take a look at the models in this booklet.
Perhaps something will occur to you how to build a model
differently. Or you can change the function of a model.

Drawing machine For example you could fasten a pen to the mobile robot, so
that it can be moved up and down allowing it to write on
a large piece of paper while the robot is moving across it.
Then you can draw the figures the robot moves through.
This turns your mobile robot in to a drawing machine.

Racing with You can also use a thick felt-tip pen to draw your own
friends obstacle course on a piece of paper and have the robot
move through it. And if your friends have a ROBOTICS
TXT Controller, you can do even more interesting things.
You can run races to see whose robot can master a given
obstacle course faster. And, in addition to allowing your
PC to communicate with the ROBOTICS TXT Controller,
the Bluetooth interface can also be used to connect a
number of computers with one another. Then, for example,
you could program two robots, to react to one another.
Or dance with each other. A great deal of interesting
information on this subject is given in Chapters 4.5 and 7 in
the ROBO Pro Help.

46
 ROBOTICS
TXT Discovery Set

Wireless freedom Does your computer have a WLAN interface? If so you can
connect the ROBOTICS TXT Controller to the computer
using WLAN instead of a USB cable. If not, you can buy
a USB WLAN stick and use it for wireless connection
between your ROBOTICS TXT Controller and PC. This is
described in the instruction manual for the ROBOTICS TXT
Controllers and at http://www.fischertechnik.de.

Persistence So, what are you waiting for? Get started! Invent and
pays off experiment! And don't be bothered by little setbacks.
Patience and perseverance are primary factors for
experimenting. The reward after this is a functioning model.

We hope you have lots of fun trying out your own ideas.

47