Expert: Saurabh Kudesia - 11/21/2005

Question
hi saurabh!
if we make a computer program in a particular
language in a particular compiler & it is made error free so that it can be executed . now running program will show the result in compiler
by clicking run in it.now if we want to program
a robot then exactly what steps we will follow
after making program in compiler so that robot
works according to that program. the compiler is
showing the result & we want the robot to do so.
i m unable to find the answer to this fundamental doubt so please answer this question.
waiting for reply.....
bye
samual.

Answer
Hi Samuel,

A compiler is a computer program that translates a computer program written in one computer language (called the source language) into an equivalent program written in another computer language (called the output, object, or target language). In short, it is a program that translates a high level symbolic language to a low level machine language.

Now, the key word is Machine language. Your robot is an combination of hardware and software instruction. The environment or rather the structure of the robot will decide how the software will interface with the hardware. Also, since the interaction is specific to the environment, it may (and will) be possible that whatever program you are running error free on your computer may not be able to run properly on the interface. So, you need to remember that

1. Define the goals for your program.
2. Create Algorithm first (note that this algorithm is independent of what programming language you are using), and then decide how you can implement it using the hardware/microprocessor you have. For example, if you are using 8085 for your robot, you NEED to convert the algorithm in 8085 program using the code set valid for 8085 processor. For some other processors, you have to use their respective code sets. (for 8085 code set have a look at http://students.fct.unl.pt/users/pjr08722/8085/mp85.htm)

3. Finally, test and debug the problems.

Now, decide

1. What is the architecture of your robot?Create a blue print highlighting how the various units/modules will interact with each other.
2. Design how the controls will be passed from one unit to another.
3. What are the various tasks that you want to achieve from your robot?
4. Do you have necessary accessories to achieve your task?
5. Prepare separate algorithm for every possible task that you want to achieve from your robot
6. Optimize the algorithms and convert it to the compatible language of your robotic processor


I would suggest you to go thorough this interesting tutorial to get an idea of how to design your robot.
http://www.cs.otago.ac.nz/cosc343/Tutes/t08.pdf

Feel free to contact me if you have more doubts.

Cheers
Saurabh