The important pieces which get Edison going;
Sensors & Inputs
Obstacle detection: Infrared using 2 IR LEDs (front left and right) and IR receiver module (doubles as IR receiver)
Remote control: IR receiver module (38kHz) Edison can learn IR codes from most standard TV/DVD remote controls
Infrared data comms: IR receiver module (double as obstacle detection sensor and IR remote receiver)
Line tracking: Red LED and phototransistor (doubles as barcode reader and programming port)
Light sensors: 2 phototransistors (front left and right)
Sound sensor: Piezo transducer (doubles as sounder)
3 Button Control: Edison uses 3 buttons in order to complete its tasks. Run, Stop, Program.
Outputs
Drive: Differential drive system
Infrared data comms: 2 infrared LEDs (double as obstacle detection sensor)
Sound: Piezo buzzer (doubles as sound sensor)
Lights: 2 red LEDs (Front left and right)
Processor
Freescale 8-bit MC9S08PA8VLC
Power
Battery: 4 x AAA (Alkaline or NiMH rechargeable AAA batteries are recommended)
Software
Programming: Edison is programmed using EdScratch, EdPy or EdBlocks. EdScratch (intermediate) is an easy to use, icon based graphical programming language. EdPy (advanced) is a online app that features text based programming for more advanced learners. EdBlocks (basic) is a ‘scratch- like’ online app for younger learners.
Scanning: Edison has a number of pre programmed features which can be activated by driving Edison over one of a number of barcode provided within the downloadable materials.
Downloading: Programs are downloaded to Edison using the EdComm cable. The EdComm cable plugs into the computer’s headphone jack and carries a pulsed audio signal to a high efficiency LED. The LED converts the pulsed audio signal into light that is received by Edison’s line tracker phototransistor and loads the program into the processor. (The EdComm cable is stored in the battery compartment for initial shipment of the Edison)
Compatibility: Edison has been designed to be independent from USB connectivity with its audio output from the device and pulsed light input to Edison using the EdComm cable.
EdPy, EdScratch, and EdBlocks are accessible online.
A firmware update is available for V1 Edison robots, which will make them compatible with EdBlocks and EdPy. Enter the serial number on your V1 Edison robot in the Firmware Checker and follow the guide to update your Edison. V2.0 Edison robots are already compatible with EdPy and EdBlocks.
V1 Edison robots are compatible with EdScratch with some limitations, find out more here.
All this makes Edison one of the most versatile Educational Robotic Systems in the world today.