1	Robot Trains in the Garden Microprocessor Controlled Engines It is much easier than you may think
2	Introduction This workshop is designed to give an overview of how simple microprocessors can be used to control lights, motors and other devices used in a garden railway Much of the information has been or will soon be covered in great detail in articles at LSOL. (search for “BODNAR” under Info Center / Library)
3	Objectives: Introduce the basics of programming and using microprocessors to control lights and motors Explore the use of simple microprocessor based controllers in garden railway applications Allow time for discussion and questions
4	Microprocessor Control www.picaxe.com “PICAXE microcontrollers are exciting, low-cost, re-programmable chips that can be used as low-cost 'brains' in many kinds of electronic projects. “
5	Microprocessor Control PICAXE 08M is an 8 pin integrated circuit that can be used to control lights, sound boards, motors and other devices
6	Microprocessor Control The key to its simplicity is the capability to program it in BASIC rather than a more complex and hard to learn language All software and documentation are free Extensive support and sample programs are available Chips range in price from less than $4.00 to less than $20.00 The simplest chip is VERY capable!
7	Flashing Crossing Lights Parts
8	Flashing Crossing Lights Circuit
9	Flashing Crossing Lights Software
10	Flashing Crossing Lights
11	Flashing Crossing Lights
12	Flashing Crossing Lights Hardware modification for button activation
13	Flashing Crossing Lights Software modification
14	Flashing Crossing Lights
15	Infrared Object Detection Eggliner prototype with commercial detection unit
16	Infrared Object Detection Areas for enhancement 12 volts needed to operate sensor Relay gave full on or full stop Size makes concealment difficult Rapid oscillation between on / off Option to put beacon on car in front
17	Infrared Object Detection Using PICAXE to duplicate and enhance Ralph’s idea IR LED flasher (38 kHz) IR sensor – high when it sees 38 kHz Relay / resistor for speed control
18	Infrared Object Detection IR LED flasher (38 kHz)
19	Infrared Object Detection IR sensor – high when it sees 38 kHz
20	Infrared Object Detection Relay / resistor for speed control
21	Infrared Object Detection Picaxe sends out pulses, detects them and controls the motor in response to what is “sees” Prototype:
22	Infrared Object Detection Software
23	Motor Control A simple power transistor circuit can turn a motor on / off
24	Motor Control Pulsed Width Modulation
25	Motor Control PWM allows a digital output pin to control a motor using the same circuit that turns it on and off
26	Motor Control Other projects: Track power speed controller Sony TV remote control to change speed / direction / etc Servo control on crossing gate Robot train project (full speed and direction control)
27	Your ideas? ? ? Questions ? ? ?
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