Learn to use sensors as a variable input to steer the Robotic Rover.
Piperbot is too scared to look! Instead of using code to steer our Rover, you will use the Ultrasonic Range Finder as a distance measurement tool to drive the robot.
Have an different version? Look for more information on the Support Page.
Troubleshooting Tips
When do I calibrate my servos?
Calibrate your servos before you assemble the Rover. If it is already assembled, you can easily remove the servos by taking out the bottom 2 screws on the Rover.
Are your servos failing to turn or move?
Verify all your electrical connections, including that your Pico is connected to your computer.
It is common to be off by 1 or 2 holes in the connections. We recommend going through each build to make sure the connections are correct.
Are the servos moving or not moving in the way you expect?
If so, then adjust the screw on the back by tiny amounts until they stop moving.
Do you have fewer Jumper Wires of the same color than is presented in the diagram?
This is okay. Jumper Wires can all be used interchangeably.
Does the Rover move backward compared to the desired outcome?
Ensure the wires plugged into GP0 and GP1 are not swapped.
Are you unable to find pin 22 when using the range finder block?
Be sure you’ve scrolled to the bottom of the dropdown menu.
Our customer support specialists are on hand to ensure your implementation of Piper runs seamlessly. View Support Docs or Contact Support
Robotics EXPEDITION RESOURCES
Vocabulary Words
Robot A device that can execute a task independent of direct human control or activity
Feedback Sensors Instruments that robots can use to adjust based on the environment
Servo Motor Self-contained electric devices that precisely rotate or push parts of a machine
Autonomous vehicle Vehicle that can operate without direct human control, usually through a
built-in autopilot system
Bionics Using biological systems (e.g., dogs, humans) for the development and design of new robots
A servo, which is short for servomotor, is a special kind of motor that is used to control something by moving it. A simple motor moved by spinning continuously. A servo turns to a specific position and it uses gears to transform the high speed of the motor into more force so it can move things more easily.
The servo is connected using three wires: one for ground, one for power, and one for a signal that tells the servo motor what position to turn to. The Pico tells the servo what position to turn to by changing the width of the pulse that it is sending out. A pulse with a shorter "ON" time will turn to one side, and a pulse with a longer "ON" time will turn to the opposite side.
The motor inside of the servo turns very fast, but it is also weak - it cannot apply very much force. The gears inside the servo convert the motor's high speed and low force into a slower speed with more force.
Computer with USB port and Chrome or Edge browser
Piper Make Base Station or Starter Kit
Piper Make Rover
Robotics Engineer: Salary $104,600/yr
Automotive Engineer: Salary $95,300/yr
Civil Engineer: Salary $88,050/yr
Electro-Mechanical and Mechtronics Technicians: Salary $60,570/yr
