InnovMind V2.0 | 3rd Webinar
October 19, 2024 at 2:30 PM - November 19, 2024 at 5:00 PM @ Online event
Description
InnovMind V2.0 aimed to inspire the next generation of engineers by bridging the robotics knowledge gap among school-level students in Sri Lanka. This initiative fostered enthusiasm and practical skills in robotics, empowering young minds to explore and innovate. The third webinar, "Building and Programming Your Color-Detecting Robot Arm," featured Mr. Ushan Chaminda, a robotics expert, who guided participants in designing and programming an interactive robot arm with color-detection capabilities. The session focused on hands-on learning with the ESP32 microcontroller, emphasizing interruption handling and dual-core processing for efficient robotic applications. The major topic of the session was interruptions, a feature essential for real-time robotic responses. Interruptions enable the microcontroller to prioritize sensor inputs or actuator controls immediately. Mr. Chaminda explained their importance in scenarios like color recognition, where quick responses are necessary. Participants learned to define Interrupt Service Routines (ISRs) and write efficient ISR code to ensure optimal performance. Through practical exercises, they explored how interruptions allowed the ESP32 to process sensor inputs and motor actions swiftly, a vital skill for complex robotics. Another advanced topic covered was the ESP32’s dual-core functionality. With two cores operating independently, the ESP32 can manage multiple tasks simultaneously, a crucial advantage in robotics. Mr. Chaminda demonstrated how to assign tasks to specific cores and avoid resource conflicts. Participants practiced using one core for RGB sensor data processing and the other for servo motor controls. This approach showcased the efficiency of parallel processing, enabling real-time color detection and robotic arm movement without delays. The session provided step-by-step guidance on integrating the RGB sensor and servo motors with the ESP32. Participants began by calibrating the RGB sensor to detect specific colors and writing code to capture and interpret color data. Using interruptions, they programmed the ESP32 to respond instantly to color changes. Next, they connected and controlled servo motors, learning to program precise movements essential for robotic tasks like object manipulation. The final integration combined the RGB sensor and servo motor controls using dual-core processing, creating a responsive color-detecting robotic arm. Throughout the workshop, Mr. Chaminda shared troubleshooting tips and debugging techniques, such as resolving core conflicts and optimizing interrupt timing. Participants used serial monitoring tools to diagnose issues and refine their code. An interactive Q&A session allowed them to address challenges, seek advice, and explore resources for further learning. Mr. Chaminda encouraged participants to continue their robotics journey, emphasizing self-learning and engagement with online communities. The webinar bridged the gap between theory and practice, equipping participants with practical skills in robotics programming. By exploring interruptions, dual-core processing, and sensor-motor integration, they gained confidence in developing interactive robotic applications. Guided by Mr. Chaminda, participants transformed ideas into tangible innovations, laying a strong foundation for future robotics projects.
Agenda
08.00 PM- 08.05 PM Introduction 08.05 PM – 08.10 PM Welcome Speech by the Project Co-Chair 08.10 PM – 08.15 PM Introduction about the Guest speaker by Moderator 08.15 PM – 10.00 PM Guest speaker’s session by Mr. Ushan Chaminda 10.00 PM – 10.20 PM Q&A Session 10.20 PM – 10.25 PM Token of Appreciation & Vote of Thanks 10.25 PM – 10.30 PM Conclusion by the moderator. 10.30 PM End of the session.