To identify the location of components (such as slider switch and sensors), please see the component image at the bottom of this page.

The light controlled robot (program control tracer) operates in two different modes.

The robot will follow the moves you programmed. Use the dedicated software to program your robot.

The robot moves along a course. It uses optical sensors to detect black course lines.

OS : Windows (XP SP2 or higher - Win7) Recommended display: 65,000 colors or more with 800 x 600 pixels or higher resolution.

The optical sensors measure the intensity of light reflected from the paper course. Black areas reflect light of a different intensity to white areas. The robot can therefore use its optical sensors to determine where it is on the course.

When the right-hand sensor detects black, the robot determines that the course leads to the right. It stops the right motor, allowing the left motor to turn the robot to the right. (The opposite occurs when the left-hand motor detects black.) When both sensors detect the black finish line, the robot determines that the course is about to end, and stops both motors.

You can download and print a .pdf format course sheet for line tracing mode and/or create your own course.

To create a line tracing course, use a wide, black marker to draw a 25mm-wide line on a sheet of white paper (min 20mm - max 30mm wide). Place the robot over the lie and see if it will run along the course (as described in next paragraph.

Align sensors	Sensor location	Line Tracing

NOTE: The robot cannot follow sharp turns or small curves with a diameter of 100 mm or less. To prevent the robot from running astray, keep these things in mind when you make your own course.

Running in line tracing mode:

1. Place the robot at the start position.
2. Align the black course line with the centre of the main body (make sure the sensors are equi-distant on either side of, and not directly over the black line.).
3. Check that the sliding power switch is set to OFF
4. Rest one finger on the touch sensor and switch on the power.
   1. You will hear a long beep when Line Tracing Mode activates. (Keep your finger on the touch sensor until the beep stops.)
   2. If the robot does not move after you remove your finger, then moisten your finger and try again (see troubleshooting section below)
5. Lift your finger off the touch sensor. You will hear a short beep and the robot will start to move.
6. If light calibration and track have been setup correctly. the robot wil follow the line and stop at the correct end point.

Press on the sensor until you hear a beep.

• If the robot does not move:
  • The robot may still be in Programming Mode. Switch off the power. Press on the sensor, then switch on the power again.
• If Line Tracing Mode does not start
  • If your finger is dry, the sensor will not detect your touch. Moisten your finger with water.
• If the tracing robot does not follow the line
  • The robot uses optical sensors to detect black course lines when in Line Tracing Mode. The robot's movement is easily affected by its surroundings. If the room is too bright, or there are shadows, line detection may be impaired. Close all curtains and operate under controlled lighting conditions. Shadows of the robot itself could affect the operation of the sensors as the robot moves and changes direction.

Your teacher has already installed the control software, find the icon on the desktop or in the APPS folder (http://www.artec-kk.co.jp/

• Double-click the icon to launch the software programming Screen
• Drag-and-drop icons into the programming area to create a routine for the robot.
  • You can add up to 24 icons under the Routine tab and up to 8 icons under each of the Subroutine tabs.
• Place repeat icons on “Row A”.
• Place motion icons, Subroutine 1 & 2 icons, and Touch Sensor icons on “Row B”.

Screen grab of programming software interface	Example printable course

An example course template can be printed (uses two sheets of A4 paper, or you can make up your own:

When you have finished designing your program, simply send it to the robot via optical communication from the data transfer area. Place the robot on a smooth floor area and slide the switch to ON. The robot will carry out the actions indicated on the icons in the order you place them.

How to transfer a control program The control program you created on the PC can be transferred to the robot via optical communication.

To ensure proper data communication, keep the computer screen out of strong light. Make necessary lighting adjustments if the robot has difficulty reading the flashing lights. It may help to cover the sensor with your hand.

To minimise data transfer problems:

• Avoid bright light shining through a window/door or bright light reflected in the computer screen.
• Avoid computer screens having a high-gloss surface, or unusual screen colouring or high contrast.
• Close curtains to shut out strong light coming in through the windows.
• Darken the room by turning the light off and/or covering windows.
• Turn the computer screen to one side to minimise reflections.
• While holding the sensor on the data transfer area with one hand, shade it with a notebook or piece of cardboard.
• Make a protective cover for the optical sensor to shut out unnecessary light (a shade template is included in the assembly manual).
• Adjust the brightness and contrast of your computer screen, according to the manufacturer's directions - Optimal settings vary depending on the monitor type and compatibility with the optical sensor.

• User Manual -Robot Software Coding: artec-093559-software-user-manual-kj8906.pdf
• Robot Activity Worksheet: artec-093559-worksheet-kj8906.pdf
• Printable Line Tracing Track (B & W) artec-093559-course-template-line-tracing-kj8906.pdf
• Printable Programmable Track (Colour): artec-093559-course-template-programming-kj8906.pdf
• Robot Assembly Manual: Assembly manual
• Artec Robot Software - PC only: Artec Robot Software