Datasheet

3. FROG Robot Architecture
This chapter describes the power and communication architecture implemented in the FROG robot.
The FROG robot is an autonomous robot able to navigate in outdoor and indoor environments, with
no need for human intervention. To power all the components, it will use up to 8 12V (17-20Ah)
batteries. The first subchapter explains the power distribution inside the FROG robot.
The second subchapter shows the low-level communication architecture. The electronics that will
control the motors, read sensors and actuate motors are considered to be low-level electronics.
Finally the third subchapter presents the high-level communication architecture. A Ethernet router and
a switch allow the creation of a local network that connects all the computers in the platform. Each
computer will connect to different devices, such as monitors, cameras, projectors or electronic boards,
by the use of different technologies such as USB, HDMI or Ethernet connections.
3.1. FROG Electronic Power Architecture
The robot can be powered by several 12V 17-20AH batteries. It uses one pair of 12V batteries
connected in series to deliver 24V to the motor drivers. Up to 6 other batteries to provide energy to all
the other computers and electronic components. An individual charging unit is used inside the robot to
charge each battery. The batteries and the power in the robot will be managed by a Sensor&Charger
Board that measures the battery levels, battery charge, and also controls the units (motors, sensors,
actuators and inverters) powered by the batteries.
FROG – FP7 STREP nr. 288235
Deliverable: D1.4 – Platform User and Developer Manual 12
Figure 3: Onboard FROG Robot Power Architecture