The Machine an AX-12 based Phoenix

[evilMachina]

The machine (I’m really bad to come up with good names) is an AX-12 based Phoenix hexapod. http://evilmachina.com/the-machine.aspx
Project Goals:
First step is to get the hexapod to move using some type of external input devise, keyboard or game pad.
Second step is to add sensors to the robot.
Third step is to make it automated.
This project is more about the software then the hardware. If I’m doing it right it should be fairly easy to replace the AX-12 with regular servos and/or a different setup.

Materials/Parts List:
Software:
OS: Windows XP
Language: C# 3.0
Parts:
Lynxmotion Phoenix kit
18 AX-12+ Servos from a Bioloid kit
"USB Bus Interface" from Huv Robotics
I'm probably going to use a VIA EPIA PX 10000 Pico-ITX as the brain, I currently using my desktop computer.

Source code: http://github.com/evilmachina/theMachine/tree/master

Videos:







/Marcus

[4mem8]

Very nice hexapod Marcus, Keep up the good work.

[darkback2]

Nice so far. I have the HDAT hex, and a part of me wishes I had a pheonix. They are just so darn cute. Lexi is a bit of an over weight beast.

How are you planning to mount the AX-12s? Do you have a way to make custom brackets?

I am seriously considering going the ITX route also. I have a small sony laptop, but I'm still having weight issues.

Good luck on the build...keep us all posted.

DB

[sam]

Wow! It looks nice! I guess you have enough power too have lots of payload.

I'm also interested, did you use custom brackets?

For the moment what are you controling it with?

[Zenta]

Hi,

Ah, finaly you posted this project!
Some of you asked about brackets.. Take a look at his pictures and I think you'll get the answer.

Very nice work and I'm looking forward to see your progress.

-Zenta

[sam]

Haaa. Ok I get it. It's true that the metal bars are only onn one side so it's less hard to modify it a tad. I thought it was (I don't know why ) SES.

[A-Bot]

Very nice. I thought about doing the same thing with the Phoenix, but by the time the kit was actually released my interests had moved to other things.

[Tyberius]

Outstanding project, this really makes me want to pick up a phoenix kit and do the same once I replace the AX-12s in my mech with RX-28s.

This is all using I.K. correct?

[evilMachina]

Thats correct that it is using I.K to move.

First steps

[MYKL]

The way it ticks/warps is really engaging. I've seen some lizards and insects move like that whilst trying to stay inconspicuously camoflauged. You've got the power to make those bursts longer/further and thus move faster. Is that your plan?

Very cool.

^_^