The XtensionCord has Been Plugged In

I have started up a new blog to supplement Lego of my Mindstorm. The XtensionCord will feature primarily gaming, game reviews and game related content. I have also started up a twitter account for both of my blogs.

XtensionCord

XtensionCord on twitter

Finding the Heat

The RCX temperature sensor is convenient and accurate. The sensor detects room temperature very well, and quickly shows temperature increases when gripped by a hand. One thing I have noticed about the sensor is that the sensor changes temperature much quicker when in contact with an object than it does while just in contact with the air. Also, the sensor (as of 8-27-11) is on sale (www.legoeducation.us), making this a very inexpensive sensor. If you have an RCX-NXT converter cable, this sensor can be plugged into an NXT sensor port. Unlike the NXT temperature sensor, there is no version requirement for the RCX sensor, so if you do not have the latest NXT-G software, you do not need to pay for the latest version.

Finding the Way

The compass sensor is a very versatile sensor. It detects heading and can be used to turn the robot in a specific direction or detect if the robot has changed direction. The sensor is accurate, easy to use and has plenty of practical applications.

Arming the Robots

I like Nerf guns; I like Mindstorms. Now, I have combined these likes with the Proximity Activated Nerf Mine, or PANM. The PANM uses a Nerf N-Strike Barricade. The Barricade is semi-automatic, which means that the Mindstorm only has to pull the trigger to fire a dart, and doesn't have to cock the gun. The two NXT motors have more than enough power to pull the trigger quickly, and the robot can use the rotation sensors in the motors to tell when the motors have completed pulling the trigger. The PANM uses the ultrasonic sensor to detect targets up to about 6 feet away, and when it detects a target, BOOM! The PANM is quite robust, and able to withstand the forces of the motors jerking the trigger. It isn't perfectly reliable, but manages to shoot nine out of the ten darts in the gun. Possible future advancements for the robot include a RANM (Remotely Activated Nerf Mine using a remote control setup) and a TANM (Trip-wire Activated Nerf Mine). A remotely operated mobile robot or turret using a Nerf gun would also be interesting.

Making Tracks

This is NXTread, a robot using my new plastic link tracks and orange sprockets. NXTread can easily move around on hardwood and carpet, and can tell what direction it is facing using the Compass Sensor. NXTread's construction is quite stable and simple, however the axles connecting the motors to the sprockets sometimes detach from the motors. This will be addressed in future versions of this robot. The tracks tend to slide, especially at higher speeds, causing the robot to drift unpredictably, but the Compass Sensor helps the keep the NXTread pointed in the correct direction. Overall, I like theses new tracks. They are easy to attach to the motors, durable and very cool looking.

Block and Load

I have found that there are other things to life besides Lego Mindstorm--such as regular Lego bricks.

This is the Multi-Purpose Scout Brick, or MPSB. The MPSB is very fast and has a great deal of fire power. It is also a very versatile vehicle, with room for a driver and a turret operator, plus two passengers or equipment or a wounded Minifigure. The most complex part of the MPSB is the turret. This turret was also the hardest part of the MPSB to build. The Turret can aim up and down with a hinge brick and traverse with a turntable brick while remaining reasonably stable and durable.

Like many Lego vehicles, the MPSB is built for speed and fire-power, not safety or comfort. The turret operator is well protected from frontal attacks, but is very exposed in the rear, while the driver and passengers ride almost completely exposed to dust, flying bricks and enemy attacks. Because of this, clever MSBP pilots will use the vehicle's speed and agility to avoid most obstacles and enemies. It is also a good idea to wear a helmet while riding on the MSBP, if only to avoid getting hit by any 1 by 1 bricks the eight wheels of the MSBP might kick into the passenger compartment.

Round Rubber for Robots

I have the Mindstorm Education Base Set and the Education Resources Set. That means that I originally only had two smooth tires. When I made my order, I decided to remedy that situation. I needed a four-pack of large, smooth wheels, so my robot could move about in style. Here, the wheels are giving some class to DDB. The wheels are easy to mount, don't wobble very much, look attractive, and are a convenient size.