DiyLightAnimation

Hardware => Bobcat DMX Servo Controller => Topic started by: dlhoppe on March 13, 2011,

Title: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on March 13, 2011,: Here is the BOM link and firmware:

BOM: http://www.mouser.com:80/ProjectManager/ProjectDetail.aspx?AccessID=F5E3BD8F09

DMX Controller Current Feature List:

Fully Programmable (channel assignments, end-point adjustments, reversing, etc)
8 Servo Channels
8 LED Channels
Scaled End-Point Adjustments (256 discreet steps)
Servo Reversing
Resettable Fuse Protection For Each Servo
DMX Daisy Chaining (output = pass-through or re-broadcast)
Ex/Rx Wireless Ready
Single or Split Power Supply Input Option (logic circuitry / servo power)(single Pwr: 6v, Dual Pwr: 6v for logic, 4.8v - 6v for servos)
Adjustable LED Output Current (3mA - 120mA, requires resistor change)
Multiple Servos Can Be "Ganged" on Same DMX Channel
Low Power Lockout (fail-safe shutdown with indication on inadequate power supply)
RGB node control (requires 3 DMX/LED output channels per node - need common-anode RGB)
DMX Data Reception Indicator (LED blinks when DMX data is present)
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project ???
Post by: packetbob on March 13, 2011,: I'd be very interested if it had the ability to preset the limts of each servo...
The allows you to protect you animatronic assembly from accidently programming a position that could break something....
I think this is very important...
Lighting is already covered with the Lynnx MR16 so I'd just design it for servos...

The only board I'm aware of that does this is the Board Of Chuckie "BOC" and it's presets can only be setup by using the Entec Open DMX dongle rather than the Entec Pro (which is what the Lynx dongle emulates)...

Not sure the best way to adjust the presets... Best if they are stored in the controller itself (in flash or EEPROM).. You'd need a min/max value for each servo.. Perhaps some sotrt of basic bushbutton/7 segemnt display to allow for adjusting and saving.

Bob
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project ???
Post by: PJNMCT on March 13, 2011,: Interested!

-Paul
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project ???
Post by: lightsup on March 13, 2011,: I am interested also.
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project ???
Post by: n1ist on March 13, 2011,: I'm willing to help out, if you want.
/mike
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project ???
Post by: dlhoppe on March 13, 2011,: Bob,

Endpoint adjustments can (and should be) done via mechanical linkage using the servo horns. That's why the horns have multiple holes on each arm and most servos come with an assortment of different sized horns. Computerized end-point control is certainly more convenient, but people mistakenly rely too much on the computer settings and don't think about the mechanical ratios required to get maximum performance from a servo. Remember, the more you limit travel using mechanical linkages, the more torque you get and the less stress is placed on the servo. Not to mention lower power consumption. It's clearly better for the servo. Set your "gear ratio" so that full travel (min to max) does not exceed the range of the driven item. With DMX, you can then use min and max dimmer values to limit futher. All that assumes that you've chosen the correct servo for the job in the first place.

Mike,
That would be great if you could help out. Let's see what the admins and RJ think of this idea and then we'll go from there in terms of design criteria and features. I would prefer to keep things simple and deliver it in a timely fashion. Although I'd be happy to see someone else step up and build something more elaborate and robust if that's the direction this needs to go.

Dave
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project ???
Post by: jess_her on March 13, 2011,: Dave,

Yes I think this would add alot to the shows, Look out Disney. ;D

Jess
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project ???
Post by: paul58 on March 13, 2011,: Interested also.
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project ???
Post by: D56VillageNut on March 13, 2011,: Would be very cool to have our own DLA version. I'd be interested.

Thanks

Alan T
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project ???
Post by: tennhillbilly on March 14, 2011,: I would be intersted also.
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project ???
Post by: sirwesley on March 14, 2011,: Definitely interested.
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project ???
Post by: gforman on March 14, 2011,: put me down as interested <pop..
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project ???
Post by: shaunkad on March 14, 2011,: Me too. should it do steepers as well?
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project ???
Post by: John K on March 14, 2011,: I am interested!
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project ???
Post by: dlhoppe on March 14, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
Me too. should it do steepers as well?

Steppers are quite a different animal compared to servos. Full rotational movement with indexed positioning. Although they don't typically provide postion feedback. In what kind of scenario would you use this? If you're considering continuous rotation with speed control, a servo can do that with a minor modification. This is common with small robotics to use servos as wheel drive motors. With this mod done, the PWM sent to the servo will control rotation direction and speed. It requires nothing different in the PWM transmission. Check out this page for more info: http://www.societyofrobots.com/actuators_modifyservo.shtml

Dave
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project ???
Post by: shaunkad on March 14, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
Me too. should it do steepers as well?

Steppers are quite a different animal compared to servos. Full rotational movement with indexed positioning. Although they don't typically provide postion feedback. In what kind of scenario would you use this? If you're considering continuous rotation with speed control, a servo can do that with a minor modification. This is common with small robotics to use servos as wheel drive motors. With this mod done, the PWM sent to the servo will control rotation direction and speed. It requires nothing different in the PWM transmission. Check out this page for more info: http://www.societyofrobots.com/actuators_modifyservo.shtml
I have no current use for this at the moment. I was asking just to ask. I had seen some questions about them in a couple of other threads and had not on this one.
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project ???
Post by: mnarel on March 14, 2011,: count me interested as well. Been looking for a way to add servo animated skulls and creatures to my Halloween display. ON the Christmas side, think of singing choirs, flying Santa sleighs, galoping reindeer, ringing bells..... It's a Small World DLA styel!!! Bring it.
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project ???
Post by: packetbob on March 14, 2011,: Hi dlhoppe,
While ideally you'd setup the linkage to make full use of the servos range (therefore never having to worry about limits or accidently stressing out a poorly designed linkage) in reality this is not always practical..
I have several 3 axis servo driven skulls and often you only need a short range of the servos travel and there is no cost effective way to avoid it (not to mention the tiny amount of space you have to work in)...

Since in my case, the projects are for fun, I end up using whatever servos and linkage I can make up out of what I have in n the junk box...

While you can setup limits in the DMX control software, this still leaves room for user error or misconfiguration...

Having the limit set feature on the servo controller itself would be a great feature that would ensure you couldn't distroy your project by pushing a servo too far.....

Bob
You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
Bob,

Endpoint adjustments can (and should be) done via mechanical linkage using the servo horns. That's why the horns have multiple holes on each arm and most servos come with an assortment of different sized horns. Computerized end-point control is certainly more convenient, but people mistakenly rely too much on the computer settings and don't think about the mechanical ratios required to get maximum performance from a servo. Remember, the more you limit travel using mechanical linkages, the more torque you get and the less stress is placed on the servo. Not to mention lower power consumption. It's clearly better for the servo. Set your "gear ratio" so that full travel (min to max) does not exceed the range of the driven item. With DMX, you can then use min and max dimmer values to limit futher. All that assumes that you've chosen the correct servo for the job in the first place.

Mike,
That would be great if you could help out. Let's see what the admins and RJ think of this idea and then we'll go from there in terms of design criteria and features. I would prefer to keep things simple and deliver it in a timely fashion. Although I'd be happy to see someone else step up and build something more elaborate and robust if that's the direction this needs to go.

Dave
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project ???
Post by: n1ist on March 14, 2011,: It shouldn't be too hard to add limits to the firmware. I guess you could use a separate configuration mode that would interpret DMX values as limits and save them away.

I better stop now before this turns into too much of a design session on the boards here...
/mike
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project ???
Post by: rayster on March 14, 2011,: I am in also, could use for both Halloween and Xmas.

Ray
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project ???
Post by: dlhoppe on March 14, 2011,: Bob,

I understand what you're saying. I've given your request a little more thought. If this project gets off the ground, I have an idea for implementing programmable endpoints using a really simple method. I have a number of other features in mind as well. Things like servo reversing, fail-safe positioning, DMX signal loss indication, etc.

The main thing I'm concerned about with such a project is the cost-benefit of any given feature. If it's overly complex to implement a given feature for what I think might be little gain (benefit to the general DLA user group), I'll probably not go there.

We'll see where this all goes once the DLA leadership chimes in.

Dave
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project ???
Post by: dlhoppe on March 14, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
It shouldn't be too hard to add limits to the firmware. I guess you could use a separate configuration mode that would interpret DMX values as limits and save them away.

I better stop now before this turns into too much of a design session on the boards here...
/mike

Great minds.... ;D
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project ???
Post by: FireMedic4Christ on March 14, 2011,: Count me interested too!
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project ???
Post by: dlhoppe on March 14, 2011,: Ok, Mike and I are going take a crack at this.

Here are some features I'm thinking of for starters:

Servo Reversing
End Point Adjustment
Programmable DMX Address (either starting address or per servo)
Programmable Fail Safe Position (for loss of DMX signal)

We'll post our progress as well as any additional features in this thread.

As to technical design and solutioning, we need to follow the rules and keep that out of the forums here. The admins have been lenient with me in the past, but I need to tow the line in that regard going forward. The one thing I will tell you is it will be a PIC based solution with ICSP for simple firmware loading. This will keep it consistent with other DLA equipment.

Cheers,
Dave
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: jess_her on March 15, 2011,: Dave mike
Can another more technical thread start here in the forum, I really like to follow this maybe help.
Jess
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on March 15, 2011,: Sorry Jess. We can't discuss the technical design here. If you want to discuss features, that's fine. We just can't get into how to implement them.

Feel free to use PMs if you want.

Dave
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: jess_her on March 15, 2011,: Dave ok I'll PM or Email what ever work the best with you guys
Please let me know

Jess
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: shaunkad on March 16, 2011,: How many servos would it control? Three would be good then you would have XYZ coverd.
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: maffeirw on March 16, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
How many servos would it control? Three would be good then you would have XYZ coverd.

For skulls you would need another for the jaw movement, two more if you want 2-axis eye movement, ;) two more for eye brow movement that makes eight. Times that for a quartet. 32 channels sounds about right to me. ;D

And I'm only half kidding
PS - I guess I can use an RGB controller to light the eyes so we won't count those 12 channels.
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: ILOVETOTRYDIY on March 16, 2011,: It would be nice if you could incorporate an audio driver some how like this:

http://www.scary-terry.com/audioservo/audioservo.htm

It could greatly reduce programming time.
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on March 17, 2011,: Thanks for the suggestions. Good ideas.

Dave
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: jess_her on March 17, 2011,: Hello dave/mike
How about some test point loops
Jess
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: n1ist on March 18, 2011,: That makes sense; I usually like to put a few extra ground points on my boards so you have somewhere to clip that meter lead on when testing...
/mike
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on March 18, 2011,: I got a jump-start on the software yesterday. I should have the basic structure of all the routines done by the time the PICs arrive from Mouser. If we don't get too carried away with whistles and bells, this should be a slam-dunk.

Get your popcorn out...

Dave
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: kylec on March 18, 2011,: <pop..
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: jess_her on March 18, 2011,: anybody have butter?
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: Freebird on March 25, 2011,: Im a little late. But I am interested in all of this. <pop..
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on March 26, 2011,: The basic DMX reception and PWM generation is done. I have it setup to control 8 servos. The custom endpoint calculations were a little difficult for me to accomplish with an 8bit processor, so I created 4 preconfigured "travel profiles" instead. Each channel having the ability to set it's profile independently of the others. Between these profiles and the ability to alter mechanical ratios, it should provide all the flexibility you would need to control travel limits.

We're going to add some LED output channels to this controller as well, so I'm moving on to that next. Mike suggested an 8 channel LED driver chip, so we'll have 2 complete RGB (2 sets of 3 LEDS) outputs plus two additional LED outputs. For those of you who want to add color-changing eyes to your pirates and skulls. :)

Oh yeah, all 16 channels (8 servo & 8 LED) can all be assigned individually to their respective DMX channel. That way you can gang servos together on a single channel if you have higher torque requirements than one servo can provide.

I think it's safe to say I'm stretching my assembler skills with this project (only my second attempt at PIC development). I've learned so much, I'll probably go back and re-write the DMX Tester logic eventually to "modernize" it. Very interesting to work out all the timings and math for DMX to PWM conversion. I'm having fun with it.

Cheers,
Dave
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: egenoup on March 26, 2011,: Cool more toys!
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: PJNMCT on March 26, 2011,: wow...Getting interesting - double popcorn on this one! <res.
<pop.. <pop..

-Paul
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on March 27, 2011,: Ok, Mike had a suggestion that greatly simplifies the PIC programming for custom end-points. Looks like that's back on the table.

Here's the current feature set (of course subject to change):

DMX IN/DMX OUT so you can use this in your DMX "daisy chain" (DMX OUT is a re-broadcast)
Support for the Ex/Rx reciever (plug and play with a selection jumper, DMX OUT is active with wireless Rx)
Servo Reversing (independent setting on each servo channel)
Servo End Point Control with Scaling for 256 discreet steps (independent setting on each servo channel)
Servo DMX Channel Mapping (independent mapping for each servo channel, multiple servos can be "ganged" together on one channel)
Fuse protection (independent for each servo)
Programmed settings will be persistent
PC program to enter the settings for downloading into the controller via dongle (either a Vixen sequence generator or direct communication)
LEDs for programming feedback
Common 6v Supply (will provide a power supply/fuse capacity lookup table based on total and individual servo torque)
8 channel LED output (each channel independently mapped to DMX channel)
Trip Sensor that will stop servo output and flash an LED indicating inadequate power supply (power off/on to clear it)

Cheers,
Dave
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: batdive on March 27, 2011,: Nice..

<pop..
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: jess_her on March 27, 2011,: Dave Mike
Great job...... sounds like it's about to hit the proto board. Check this guy out he does MIDI servo controlers just an interesting peek
http://tech.yostengineering.com/servoFolder/servocenter-downloads

Jess
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on April 06, 2011,: Made some more progress interfacing the PIC to the LED driver IC. Once that's polished, it's on to the programming interface and then the prototype build. Things are coming along. :)

Dave
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on April 09, 2011,: After much testing and tweaking I have the servo and LED outputs operating very smoothly. Now it's on to the programming interface and some "whistles and bells".

It's coming together nicely.

Dave
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: lightsup on April 09, 2011,: nice can hardly wait to get one. I have 6 servos from an RC plane that I had 25 years ago and been saving them for a reason I guess and here we go dmx servo controlled project now. Keep up the good work Dave.
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: budude on April 09, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
nice can hardly wait to get one. I have 6 servos from an RC plane that I had 25 years ago and been saving them for a reason I guess and here we go dmx servo controlled project now. Keep up the good work Dave.

lol... I have the same thing - I got an RC plane kit - also about 25 years ago - it never flew - the wings got broken off and could not be repaired so it's been sitting in my garage ever since. I think it only has 3 servos in it though - good enough for a skull though for Halloween!
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: n1ist on April 13, 2011,: Prototype boards have arrived (though we already have some changes...)
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: jess_her on April 13, 2011,: Very nice layout, compact, wireless, 8 Channels.
Great job when is the coop?? just kidding.
Jess
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on April 17, 2011,: Just a quick progress update.

The controller firmware is about 90% complete. Still need to implement servo reversing and some additional tidying up. I also wrote a "configuration program" that will allow you to send all the parameters (end points, reverse, channel assignments, etc) to the controller via the dongle. Attached is a screen shot. We were thinking about generating a Vixen sequence to send programming data, but decided it would be simpler to send it directly. Everything is working pretty well, so I think we're pretty much over the hump from a software standpoint. Next up is hardware prototype testing and tweaking.

A little about the configuration program. The end point settings are the DMX dimmer values that you would determine to be your servo travel limits. You'll have to use Vixen or the DMX channel tester to figure out what dimmer values represent the end points (based on the "default" range). When you enter the values in the configuration program screen and send it to the controller, the software will automatically calculate and scale the travel across the entire DMX dimmer value range. So you'll almost always get the full 256 point resolution. Although if you set up a super-short travel range, it may have to give up some of that resolution. 256 positions is pretty fine resolution for animated decorations. :)

"Load Configuration..." and "Save Configuration..." allows you to save and recall settings as a file on your PC. "Set Defaults..." will reset all values to what you see in the screenshot. "Program Controller..." will send the configuration shown on the screen to the controller. "Settings..." is a means to setup and save the COM port settings for communicating with the dongle. The "Direction" values are "Std" and "Rev". Everything else is self explanatory.

Cheers,
Dave
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on April 19, 2011,: Servo reversing is done. Program feedback and data reception feedback indicators done. All that's left for the firmware is low-power indication/lockout. The common power supply circuit needs careful testing. I have tons of servos from mini to large digitals that I'll be using to test with.

Test, test, test....

Dave
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: Caliente Christmas on April 19, 2011,: can wait to see it in action. sound like a fun project once its all put together
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: lightsup on April 19, 2011,: Its just beautiful. nice lay out, lots of features and nice setup program to make it all work.
Good job Dave and Mike.
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dilgod on April 21, 2011,: Can't wait for the coop for this controller.

-Dilgod
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: kgustafson on April 22, 2011,: Nice! I too can't wait. This will be a great addition especially during Halloween!

Kurt
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on April 23, 2011,: Ok, the software is finished. I think you're gonna like it. Plenty of flexibility for servo control and Mike's idea for the LED/RGB output adds a nice touch. Now I can concentrate more on the hardware testing so we can work towards getting another set of prototype PCBs printed.

Keep the popcorn flowing... :)

Cheers,
Dave
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: gforman on April 23, 2011,: <pop.. <pop..

here you go

thanks for the update, sounds real promising
Title: Re: Lynx DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: abrianbaker on April 23, 2011,: <pop.. <pop.. <pop.. <pop.. <pop.. <pop.. >.d9
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on April 25, 2011,: We have a new development resource on the team to build the Mac version of the configuration program. So you Mac users can feel good that we're thinking about you... ;)
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: lightsup on June 01, 2011,: any updates on this project.
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on June 05, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
any updates on this project.

Yes, we updated the PCB design and just recently got some prototype boards. We just need to finish testing to be certain the board design and the software play well together. Servo and LED control are working great. The programming feature is also looking pretty good, but we want to make sure everything is solid before release.

Sorry for the lack of activity on these projects, but my job has been very demanding lately. Also trying to enjoy some summer activities when I can. Hang in there, we're very close.

Dave
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: tennhillbilly on June 06, 2011,: Thanks for all the work on this,I know how life can get in the way of our projects.
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: lightsup on June 06, 2011,: Thanks Dave for the update. Yes life is demanding these day I also had a family crises I just came back from a round trip to pick up my Daughter and grand daughter of 1200 miles in 21 hours. so thanks for the update and do enjoy life as it can be short sometimes.
Alan
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: kgustafson on June 06, 2011,: Yes, Thanks Dave for the work on this. We all very much appreciate the tag-up.

Kurt
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on June 26, 2011,: Ordering parts for a final test build. We'll give an update when we're ready to pass this on to the coop managers.

Dave
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: Freebird on June 27, 2011,: YES this is great news for my animated snowman!!! <pop..
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: typoagain on August 11, 2011,: A group of us had the pleasure of RJ and JJ's company at dinner the other night and he mentioned this project. While I am far to busy to get into a project using this system for this year, I am interested in it for projects that are on the drawing board for the next year or two.

Any updates?
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: n1ist on August 13, 2011,: Dave has gotten sidelined by work (why does that always interfere with blinky?) I have an order from Mouser coming in this week to verify the BOM (for both this and the tester); hopefully we can push them through shortly.
/mike
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: typoagain on August 14, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
Dave has gotten sidelined by work (why does that always interfere with blinky?) I have an order from Mouser coming in this week to verify the BOM (for both this and the tester); hopefully we can push them through shortly.
/mike

thanks for the update
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: jess_her on September 02, 2011,: hello Dave/Mike
My project needs a brain ;D and everything else to.
Jess
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: typoagain on September 02, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
hello Dave/Mike
My project needs a brain ;D and everything else to.
Jess

Nice work! Very clean and solid.

What kind of body do you have in mind? I am knocking around designs for a dancing snowman.

I am thinking a 3 axis head, a mouth and 2 axis eyes. Add a hip swivel and maybe moving arms asll on a swivel base. Best of all, I can build it in small sections that would make a good display without having to get it all done in one year.

I just can't figure out how the best way to cover the head and body.
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: jess_her on September 02, 2011,: head, mouth and wild hair will be done with EL wire. the body will have some clothes on. Have moving arms playing a guitar. The problem I have is weight. They would need to be driven with monster servos which would break my budget with the outher things I want to do. So I going to build a jack screw using ready made acme thread and nut. DC motor and yes I'll use a spiking diodes. Hitec servo board with a 5K feedback pot. Gears from servo city.

What I would do for your project would be to use wire forms and cover them with parachute material and back light it maybe
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: typoagain on September 03, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
What I would do for your project would be to use wire forms and cover them with parachute material and back light it maybe

That's what I was thinking. I was also considering 1/4 tubing-light, stuff and easy to braze.
But Like you I would have two large servos that could be a cost problem. I have considered air cylinders, but I really do not want to start air into the display.

Sounds like you have something impressive going on here.

Hey, we nned a thread on this and WE NEED PICS!
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: jess_her on September 03, 2011,: Well what I would do would would be to use 1/4 or maybe 3/16 cold rolled round stock. Cold roll 1018 has no mill scale like A36 hot rolled. www.onlinemetals.com I then would get a 110V mig welder with intersheld wire 025 or 030. You could get gas shielding but would be to much of a hassle for what your doing.I'd find one at a pawn shop or private party selling one for around $100 to $400. Stick with a name brand Lincon or Miller. I'd stay away fron the gas welder unless you have one. Will talk more if you interested.
I thought about air but to much money to make it happen at least with my budget. Cylinder position feedback would be the biggest issue.
Yes I start a thread in whats happening with the project but not to much to look at right now.
take care

Jess
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: blaha on September 03, 2011,: Late to the game on this thread as I am fairly new, but really looking forward to see where this goes. <pop..
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on September 18, 2011,: Ok, starting to come up for air from crazy work schedule. Thanks to Mike for picking things back up. I promise to give a concerted effort to help get this thing released.

Apologies for my "hibernation".
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on October 06, 2011,: I'd like to get a few more test builds done. Is there anyone who would like to do a build for yourself? I have a few PCBs to contribute. We have the BOM on Mouser's web site (will provide link).

Let me know,
Dave
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: Steve Gase on October 06, 2011,: I can't help with design, but i'm certainly interested in building and using a couple.
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: John K on October 06, 2011,: I would be happy to help build one and test. Back surgery has but a damper on this wears display so I have alot of free time on my hands.

John
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: rrawlings on October 06, 2011,: I was not aware of this thread and was looking at trying this myself from the design side, it sounds like you have most of it worked out, let me know if you have a board left and I am in. I want to do a couple of animated items, first is a skull
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: blaha on October 06, 2011,: I would put myself lower on the list if there are others that can contribute, but I wouldn't mind building one if available to work with.
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on October 06, 2011,: Ok, I only have 3 boards, so the first 3 get them.

Steve, John and rrawlings, please PM your mailing addresses.

I believe there are more prototype boards available. Hopefully Mike and/or Charles will chime in and indicate how many they have available for these tests.
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: steve_hirst on October 06, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
Ok, I only have 3 boards, so the first 3 get them.

Steve, John and rrawlings, please PM your mailing addresses.

I believe there are more prototype boards available. Hopefully Mike and/or Charles will chime in and indicate how many they have available for these tests.

If any more come up I would be more than happy to build and test some also.
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: n1ist on October 06, 2011,: I just went through my stash and have 14 boards. PM me if you are interested in them.
/mike
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: egenoup on October 06, 2011,: I will look in my box tomorrow and post the number of boards....
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: kjam22 on October 07, 2011,: I'll take one to try
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on October 07, 2011,: Fellas, I just want to let you all know that the level of complexity is a little higher on this device than with some of other builds. This servo controller has some options such as single power supply vs. split power supply etc. The board is rather densely populated to keep it small. Not to mention the need to choose an appropriate sized power supply and how to use the programmer software for assigning channels and servo travel limits.

Mike will document the technical build with the options.

I will put together some documentation for how to use the programmer.

This device is very feature-rich, so the demands on technical ability rises in proportion to that. Just want to set your expectations. I may be overstating, but better than surprising you with any difficulty.

For those who haven't done so yet, please go back and read this thread. A lot of the details are sprinkled throughout. It would be a good start to getting familiar while you're preparing to do the build.

Dave
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: rrawlings on October 07, 2011,: This sounds like it is doable for me. I am an engineer and work daily with this type of thing, software is my weak point. I have been using this hobby as a reason to learn programming and am slowly picking up microcontroller programming using assembly code.
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on October 07, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
This sounds like it is doable for me. I am an engineer and work daily with this type of thing, software is my weak point. I have been using this hobby as a reason to learn programming and am slowly picking up microcontroller programming using assembly code.

Ah, a fellow "assembler". On the two projects I've done here, I've written the PIC code in assembler. I'd be happy to share what I've done. We just can't do it in this forum. Feel free to PM me regarding PIC coding and we can discuss privately if you like.

Dave
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: ILOVETOTRYDIY on October 10, 2011,: I have a couple of boards coming, where can I find the Mouser BOM?
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: packetbob on October 11, 2011,: I'll take one or two boards if there are any left.....
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on October 11, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
I have a couple of boards coming, where can I find the Mouser BOM?

I posted the BOM link and the firmware on the first post of this thread.
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: egenoup on October 11, 2011,: I have two (2) extra boards up for grabs... Dave do you have a list of who should get these boards?
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on October 11, 2011,: Charles, whoever PMs you first gets them. Mike is doing the same.
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on October 11, 2011,: We should have a good variety of beta testers. Thanks everyone for stepping up. We're counting on you.

Please post about your build experience.

Dave
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: holland lights on October 11, 2011,: Well i sent money ton1ist ,and sent my address to egenoup (did he mean he wanted payment, not just my address in the email?).
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on October 11, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
Well i sent money ton1ist ,and sent my address to egenoup (did he mean he wanted payment, not just my address in the email?).

Please work out arrangements via PMs.

Thanks
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on October 11, 2011,: I added some additional items to the first post of this thread. Firmware, configuration tool, as well as some instructions and notes regarding features and recommendations.

I'm hoping Mike will send me some more detail on the build options (split vs single power supply, DMX out, etc). Once I have that, I will update the doc on the first post of this thread.

Cheers,
Dave
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project
Post by: dlhoppe on October 11, 2011,: All PCBs I'm providing will be in the mail tomorrow.
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for info)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 12, 2011,: For you beta testers, I made a couple of small changes to the BOM. I removed an unnecessary item (the 3A diode) and added the 16P socket for the LED driver. So for those who already placed their order, you're missing the 16P socket and will have an extra part.

Sorry about that.
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for info)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 12, 2011,: Thought I would post this pic of my latest build (using up my breadboard parts). I'm missing a few things, but it's mostly done. I've added some annotation to show the options.

Power Supply:
For single power supply (same supply feeds logic and servos), place diode at D4 and leave D1 open. Connect power to "S" in P1 block only.
For dual power supply (separate supplies for logic and servos), place diode at D1 and leave D4 open. Connect logic power to "L" in P1 block. Connect servo power to "S" in P1 block.

DMX Pass-through vs. Re-broadcast:
For pass-through, jump the two spots shown circled on the photo. Leave the second line driver chip out. (C10 is also not required with pass-through)
For re-broadcast, do not jump. Instead install the second line driver chip and C10.

Power monitoring:
U8/C2 are there to allow for monitoring the servo power bus. However U8 is not included in the BOM. U7/C1 are there to allow for monitoring the logic power bus. Only one of the buses can be monitored. We felt it a better idea to have the PIC monitor it's own power supply to prevent brown-outs causing cycling/rebooting. However it's the builder's choice to determine which bus they want to monitor. In either case, if the power drops below the trigger point (3.075v for U7, and 4.375v for U8) the PIC will go into fail-safe mode (shuts down servo and LED operation) and flashes the red LED. Cycling the power will clear it.

Dave
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 13, 2011,: For those of you that are going to add the Ex/Rx for wireless connectivity. I've been testing mine with a "stock" Ex/Rx and it's been working fine. However I do have a little concern that we're only feeding it 3.3v. There's no headroom there for any dips in voltage on the logic power bus. Please pay particular attention to the wireless performance. The worst that would happen is we'd jump out the regulator on the Ex/Rx. But I'd like to save that as a last resort to try and keep the Ex/Rx "stock".

Dave
Title: Re: DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 13, 2011,: OK, just to make sure everyone is clear on the status of this project. We are involving some volunteers for beta testing. This is not a coop. As soon as we're done with our testing phase, then we'll approach the coop managers to get this thing officially released. Please check back for updates. We should start seeing feedback from the testers before too long.

Thanks for your patience,
Dave
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 14, 2011,: I should mentioned recommended power supplies since I don't think it's come up much in this thread. After a fair bit of testing, I have come up with the following recommendations.

If you're going to use the split power supply (separate supplies for logic and servos), consider this for the logic power bus:

Power consumption for wired only (no Ex/Rx): 30mA
Power consumption for wireless (with Ex/Rx): 120mA

So I would recommend a 6VDC supply with at least 200mA output for the logic side. That should give some headroom and prevent running something at max capacity. I can't imagine you would save much if you planned on wired only and bought a tiny supply. You'd end up under-powered down the road if you want to add an Ex/Rx later.

The same unit RJ specifies for the Tx would be a cost-effective choice: http://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/Triad-Magnetics/WDU6-300/?qs=sGAEpiMZZMtpkqKkT5w3uodytXa2FMQczQDgRJZG8W8%3d

For the servo power bus (also applies to single power input configuration), it depends on what your plans are for servo size and load. In my testing I've found that borderline power supply was really affected by the starts and stops of servo movement, which causes glitching in all the servos. I'm using a bench-top 3A power supply and I'm able to dial down the current to simulate less capable power supplies. I would stick with 6VDC and a minimum of 2A. If you're going to run high-power digitals and/or large scale servos, then you'll want to bump up the output current. Unfortunately, servo manufacturers do not specify current consumption with various load conditions. Some will show stall current, but that's rare. In my tests, I had 8 servos in constant motion and was pulling around 1.5 amps, but the servos weren't connected to anything to load them down. I stalled one of the digitals and the current draw spiked to 3A or more before the fuse opened. So shoot higher if it's within your budget. I did a quick search and here's a possibility at 3A output giving some headroom to grow into: http://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/ETA-USA/WTA20-06SX-Y-C2/?qs=sGAEpiMZZMtpkqKkT5w3uqJX%2fAHMQwURv3ppaFQgaYY%3d

It goes without saying that using the single power supply configuration would be simpler. However, some may have issues with noisy power supplies or such. In that case it's an easy mod to split the power input and power the two buses separately.

Dave
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 14, 2011,: A little searching can find other less costly power supply options. For example: http://www.web-tronics.com/ac6unposu3.html
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 14, 2011,: For what it's worth, some specs I've measured on the servos I've been testing with. All Hitec servos running continuously with no load.

Servo Type Torque No-Load Current (mA)
HS5945MG Digital 180 500
HS605MG HT Analog 94 500 (questionable, noisy servo from crash)
HS5985MG Digital 180 500
HS55 Sub-Micro 18 150
HS81 Micro 42 150
HS425BB Std Analog 57 180

As you can see, you can't necessarily equate torque to power consumption. Although I'm thinking we can probably come up with some "rule of thumb".
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: RJ on October 14, 2011,: I use these on my plane are they OK?

http://www.hitecrcd.com/products/digital/robotics/hsr-5990tg.html

RJ
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 14, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
I use these on my plane are they OK?

http://www.hitecrcd.com/products/digital/robotics/hsr-5990tg.html

RJ

I don't see why not. I've never used that line of servo, but they look pretty capable. Are you going to actually spin a real tree? ;)
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 15, 2011,: I understand the 470uf cap is on back-order at Mouser. Here's an alternative: http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?qs=MtOUKumLmnaGDjgaMyTp2g%3d%3d
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: jess_her on October 16, 2011,: Hello Dave
Just been out looking at vixen to control Bobcat Servo board Is there a plungin or add-in for this?
Jess
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 16, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
Hello Dave
Just been out looking at vixen to control Bobcat Servo board Is there a plungin or add-in for this?
Jess

The servo controller behaves just like any other Lynx DMX controller using the Lynx dongle. The Vixen plugin is really related to the dongle, not the controllers. I'm using the "Entec DMX USB Pro" Plugin.

Hope that clears thing up.

Dave
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: jess_her on October 16, 2011,: Yep Dave thx. I'm using Lynx dongle. Just to be clear, the Bobcat configuration program will set the software endpoints and rotation of the servos when installing the firmware into the Bobcat. Then in Vixen you would want to set the cell intensity to 128 for servo center OR what ever the Center value of the programed start and ending value in Bobcat Configuration program.
Thanks you Dave.

Jess
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 16, 2011,: Jess_her,

Those are good questions and I probably didn't do a good job of making that clear. Writing the firmware to the servo controller is the same as any other PIC-based DIY controller. Using the Pickit and writing the hex file to the PIC is the firmware part. That must be done first before you can think about using the config tool. The firmware has special routines that allow it to accept the parameters sent by the config tool. So once the firmware is loaded onto the PIC, you can then use the configuration tool to set the endpoints, direction, channel assignments, etc.

Steps to get up and running:

1. Load firmware to PIC using your Pickit or whatever programmer you have.
2. Test the servo controller with Vixen or any other source of DMX data to make sure the firmware is loaded and functioning correctly.
3. Figure out your end point limits, directions and channel assignments.
4. Use the config tool to send the parameters from step 3 to the servo controller.

Please note, by default the DMX channel assignments are 1-8 for the servos and 9-16 for the LED outputs.

You are correct regarding cell intensity in Vixen. A value of 128 will put the servo in the center of it's range. Well I should say 127 is mid-point between 0 and 255. Although I thought you could only specify intensity as a percentage in Vixen. Is there a way to specify specific values? I haven't seen it, but I'd like to know how to do it if it can be done.

Remember, even though you may specify limited travel range for a given servo channel, you'll still get a full 256 discreet positions as related to the DMX intensity values. The controller will "scale" the servo travel range (as specified by the end points you set with the config tool) across 256 increments. So a DMX intensity value of 0 will correspond to the "Start Value" from the config tool, and 255 will correspond to the "End Value" from the config tool.

Let's walk through a simple example where we'll set the start and end points at 1/4 (start value = 63) and 3/4 (end value = 191) of the full range. The first illustration shows where we would like to have our servo travel start and end (see where 63 and 91 fall on the travel range). We want the low end point to start at the position associated with intensity value 63 (based on default full range). We want the upper end point to be equivalent to the intensity value 91 (also based on the default full range). The second illustration shows how the servo would behave after configuring those end point values using the config tool.

(servo travel distances are for example purposes only)

DMX Intensity: 0.........63..................91........255
Default Servo end points: |...........................................| << travel range related to DMX intensity value
|<-------- 1 inch -------------->| << default travel range (start = 0, end = 255)

DMX Intensity: 0.....................255 << still get 256 DMX intensity values
Adjusted Servo end points: |.....................| << now scaled across shorter travel range
|<- 1/2 inch ->|
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 16, 2011,: You guys that are setting up "mechanical animation" with this servo controller should think about getting a DMX channel tester when the coop opens. It's the perfect tool for helping you figure out travel end points and direction when designing your display. I don't mean this to come off like a "sales pitch", but I've done enough testing with both devices to see just how well it works with the servo controller for setup, testing and troubleshooting your servo outputs.

Food for thought...
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: jess_her on October 16, 2011,: Thanks Dave

I have been playing around with Vixen, and for those that don't know how to convert cell value from percent to a number there is a button 3rd from the right on the row (cell on, cell off, ramp on, etc.). Also the 2nd from the right will display the values in the cell all the time. Very helpfull at least for me.

Jess
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 16, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login

Thanks Dave

I have been playing around with Vixen, and for those that don't know how to convert cell value from percent to a number there is a button 3rd from the right on the row (cell on, cell off, ramp on, etc.). Also the 2nd from the right will display the values in the cell all the time. Very helpfull at least for me.

Jess

Thanks for that Vixen tip! I looked all over and couldn't find that feature.
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 16, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
Dave
So if the starting point 63 and ending point is 191 set by the configuration program you still get 256 discreet steps with Bobcat servo control?

Jess

Yes, that's correct. See post #112. I edited it to give some details.
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 17, 2011,: FYI,

I ordered a couple of power supplies to test:

http://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/ETA-USA/WTA20-06SX-Y-C2/?qs=sGAEpiMZZMtpkqKkT5w3uqJX%2fAHMQwURv3ppaFQgaYY%3d

AND

http://www.web-tronics.com/ac6unposu3.html

I'll report my test results and offer them to anyone interested at a "demo" price after I'm done with them. :)
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 18, 2011,: Completed example. Notice the diode at position D4 (single power supply configuration).
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: rrawlings on October 18, 2011,: Just waiting for my parts from Mouser, hope to have some feedback to you this time next week if all goes well
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 18, 2011,: Ok, I've been doing some testing to find out just how much load a 3A power supply can handle before creating brown-outs on the logic pwr bus. What I'm finding is that certain types of servos really pull some current when they move quickly regardless of their torque ratings. For instance, I'm testing with some Hitec HS605MG's that are just absolute power hogs even though they're not outrageously powerful torque-wise. The digitals I'm testing with have twice the torque or more, but have way lower power consumption spikes when moving quickly. So the moral of the story here is that we just can't equate power requirements to torque.

So to get to the point, it's going to be trial and error in terms of figuring out whether you'll need to go with dual power supplies or can live with a single one. If you want a recommendation, I'd say 4 servos is the limit for using the single power supply configuration. Although I can get a brown-out to occur with just 3 HS605MG's by putting the DMX tester in "pulse" mode (toggles all channels full on/full off).

I'm currently lobbying for a minor change to the PCB design for the single/dual power input option. I'm hoping we can allow for switching between the two with maybe a jumper rather than soldering a diode in one of two places. That will make it much more flexible and allows you to change back and forth between single and dual in an instant. Will keep you posted on that. The other minor change is to feed the Ex/Rx with 6v from the upstream side of the logic pwr bus regulator. That will help raise the tolerance a bit for power dips.

So in summary, using dual power supplies is working flawlessly. The questions only arise when using a single power source for both logic and servos.

Dave
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: n1ist on October 18, 2011,: Jumper is now in the artwork...
/mike
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 18, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
Jumper is now in the artwork...
/mike

Excellent! Thanks Mike.

So the release revision will include the ability to combine/split the power inputs with a simple jumper. Folks will just have to see what their power requirements are based on the combinations of servos they use. If the load is high enough where power dips cause issues on the logic side of the board, then switch to dual power supplies.
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 19, 2011,: BETA TESTERS...PLEASE READ!

Ugh, Apparently some Rev 1 boards were let out for beta testing. Please do not build the Rev 1 boards. They can be identified as having only "D1" instead of "D1 and D4". It looks like 2 of them are out there.

Please let me know if you have a Rev 1 board and we'll see if we can get you the correct one.

My apologies.....again.
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: Steve Gase on October 19, 2011,: Where do I find the version?

(http://img23.imageshack.us/img23/9325/imag0524u.jpg)
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: blaha on October 19, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
Where do I find the version?

Steve is looks like you are good. You can see the D1 and D4 right above the DMX Out.
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: Steve Gase on October 19, 2011,: thanks!
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 19, 2011,: Steve,

Thanks for posting your photo. That's an example of the Rev2 board and is the one we're beta-testing.
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: n1ist on October 20, 2011,: Another quick way to tell is to look at the power connector. Rev 1 has a 2-pin connector. Rev 2 has a 4-pin one.
/mike
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: jess_her on October 20, 2011,: OK I'm running, For now I'm using battery's to power my board until I get a better power supply. The board is running solid with cheep china servos ;D. The only problem is when ran by Vixen, at the start the servos will try to center (4) and cause a brown out and jitter on all four servos. The servo board will shut down and red led will flash. disconnect power and reapply the fault will clear, very cool.
Thanks you Dave and Mike

Jess
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 20, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
OK I'm running, For now I'm using battery's to power my board until I get a better power supply. The board is running solid with cheep china servos ;D. The only problem is when ran by Vixen, at the start the servos will try to center (4) and cause a brown out and jitter on all four servos. The servo board will shut down and red led will flash. disconnect power and reapply the fault will clear, very cool.
Thanks you Dave and Mike

Jess

I'd say your batteries aren't able to deliver the current you need. Although I think you mentioned you had a hefty power supply that might work. Let us know how that goes.
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 20, 2011,: FYI,

This power supply showed up at my door today:

http://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/ETA-USA/WTA20-06SX-Y-C2/?qs=sGAEpiMZZMtpkqKkT5w3uqJX%2fAHMQwURv3ppaFQgaYY%3d

I was just playing around with it and I must say it's got some real balls. Handles my HS605MG power hogs very nicely. I'm running 8 servos all in constant motion on single power supply input and it doesn't even appear to be breaking a sweat.

I'll report on the other one when it arrives.
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: jess_her on October 21, 2011,: Well yep I used some batteries, had to see it work! But what I found out was when the power drooped causing servo jitter, compounding the problem and the servo controller went into fault mode.
So I had an old 5V 15A adjustable power supply turned it all the way up (5.8V) never had another problem. Power power power don't skimp <fp.
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: holland lights on October 21, 2011,: Way it sounds, you need atleast a 3 amp supply to work right.
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 21, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
Way it sounds, you need atleast a 3 amp supply to work right.

Depends on the number of servos and load. However, I wouldn't invest in a weak one up front because you'd possibly outgrow it down the road.

Hopefully everyone will keep their eyes open for a good deal on a 6VDC power supply with ample power. I have a regulated 2.5A switching supply coming that is reasonable in cost ($11.99). I'll see how it compares to the 3A ($18.92) I just got. I'll let you know.

Remember also that wiring has something to do with it. The smaller the gauge, the less current it can deliver. You can have a good power supply and cripple it with tiny gauge wire leads. Then there's battery performance. Some batteries are suited for higher current applications and some aren't. Just make sure you do some research (google is your friend) before investing.
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: jess_her on October 24, 2011,: Hello,
Laptop died, now using the desktop. The laptop had vixen 2.5 and it will display cell intensity values in cells. BUT 2.5 is a beta so and the previous versions wont. Vixen 3.0 is suppose to.

Sorry for being off topic but I wanted to correct myself from an earlier post in this thread.

Bobcat servo controller has been working solid for me.

Jess
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: rrawlings on November 03, 2011,: Sorry to have not been timely in giving feedback on this. I have been looking for my box of RC stuff. I will be running this beauty thru it's paces tomorrow.
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: jess_her on November 04, 2011,: Hello All,
Here is a Hitec HS-645MG Servo with a twist. pulled the 5K pot put of the servo and remove the gear stop. Works perfect with the Bobcat controller. Also you can get a good feel for the software limits that are programed with this setup. This is to get more than 270 degrees of rotation. Sorry for off topic.
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: rrawlings on November 04, 2011,: OK, I am playing with it now. I am only able to get about 50% of the servo's possible rotation. I configured with the 0 to 255 points but am only getting about 45 degrees rotation from center on the servos. Maybe I am missing something. Let me know. other than that I love this so far.
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: jess_her on November 04, 2011,: Digital servo with programed end points???
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: rrawlings on November 04, 2011,: Nope just a couple of good old futaba standard servos
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: jess_her on November 05, 2011,: I just hooked an old futaba FP-s28 and get only 45 degrees off center each way, Its the servo and I don't know why. But the newer analog ones work fine for me.
Jess
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: rrawlings on November 05, 2011,: that is good to know. I will get some newer ones then before building my animated skull
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on November 05, 2011,: There is the possibility of expanding the pulse width range to get more rotation from your servos. I used a conservative range to help prevent over-rotation. If servos are commanded to go beyond the stops, damage will likely occur. If you think expanding the range is useful, let me know.

Dave
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: jess_her on November 05, 2011,: Hello Dave
I'm very happy with how the servo controller is set up. Fultaba I have is over 30 years old and I don't know why I still have it. <fp.
Jess
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on November 05, 2011,: Jess, have you used the configuration tool? I'm hoping that you guys will put that through it's paces as well.

Thanks,
Dave
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: jess_her on November 05, 2011,: I've used the configuration tool and has worked perfect. I needed the Bobcat software end points. Had to sneak up on limits but no big deal. Abused the controller with overvoltage and wrong polarity, still lives and works fine. DON"T try this on yous. I do need to spend more time with address and haven't done anything with the LED side of it. Tomorrow AM I'll check it out. Had been doing Halloween and an LE , will leave that for another post........ maybe.
Jess
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: jess_her on November 06, 2011,: Everything is working good here, programmer is easy to use, watch out for power hookups from the outer edge of the board it's power/ground/power/ground.
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on November 08, 2011,: FYI, we're experimenting with expanded end-point limits. I have modified the configuration tool to allow expanded range of motion.

rrawlings has stepped up to try it out. PM me if you'd like to test this as well.
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: rayster on November 09, 2011,: So instead of reading though 10 pages of great info how do I get a board or two? Sounds like you guys came up with the perfect servo controller for a fraction of the cost of any thing out there and the best thing is it is a DIY project. :)
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: lineman on November 09, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
So instead of reading though 10 pages of great info how do I get a board or two? Sounds like you guys came up with the perfect servo controller for a fraction of the cost of any thing out there and the best thing is it is a DIY project. :)
This is is beta for testing not available yet
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on November 09, 2011,: I took a crack at setting up the wiki for this device in preparation for release. It's in the "DMX Devices" section on the "Equipment" page. Build photos will improve once I get my hands on some more. hint...hint...

Thanks Rick for getting me started with the wiki entries and manual pages!
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on November 13, 2011,: Are there any approved coop managers that would be interested in running a coop for this device?
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on November 17, 2011,: For you folks that are interested in the LED output from this device. I picked up some "common-anode" RGB LEDs and they work very nicely. So those who want to implement color-changing eyes or similar RGB effects will be pleased.

Here's a little video clip showing a simple sequence driving the RGB: http://vimeo.com/32273940 (sorry for the poor quality, colors don't show up all that well)

Dave
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: n1ist on November 17, 2011,: The LED outputs can also drive single-color LEDs.
/mike
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on November 17, 2011,: Yep, 8 total channels for LEDs. It takes 3 channels to drive an RGB LED. So you can mix and match RGBs and single color LEDs however you wish within that 8 channel limit.
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: n1ist on November 23, 2011,: The COOP for the servo boards and DMX testers has begun. You can find it
here (http://diylightanimation.com/index.php?topic=6684.0)
/mike
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: JerryPlak on November 23, 2011,: :o link is bad <fp.

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The COOP for the servo boards and DMX testers has begun. You can find it
here (http://"http://diylightanimation.com/index.php?topic=6684.0")
/mike
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: rimist on November 23, 2011,: Two questions: since this project is now out of beta, shouldn't it get its own forum?

Can you provide link(s) to servos that can work with this controller?
I'd like to have an idea of how much it will cost me including the servos :)

- Rimist

Sent from my HTC Glacier using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: holland lights on November 23, 2011,: The link worked for me. Its on the coops page.

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:o link is bad <fp.

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The COOP for the servo boards and DMX testers has begun. You can find it
here (http://"http://diylightanimation.com/index.php?topic=6684.0")
/mike
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: mikedbom on November 23, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
Can you provide link(s) to servos that can work with this controller?

I second that...
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on November 23, 2011,: I am hoping these devices will get their own forums soon.

Any R/C type servo will work. Analog or digital.
Title: Re: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: rimist on November 23, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
Any R/C type servo will work. Analog or digital.
I'm looking at adding animations to my Christmas display. I Googled servo motors and found them from $6 to nearly $500. Can you give me any idea what I would need to make Rudolf lift his head or Santa wave his hand? I know it will be a range based on materials, especially the weight of the materials.
Concept: wireframe Rudolf wrapped in garland and lights. I want his head to lift.

- Rimist

Sent from my HTC Glacier using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: JoeFromOzarks on November 23, 2011,: This might be way off topic but you might want to look into $20 automobile wiper motors for loads that heavy. Add a couple $2 limit switches for a reversing circuit and away you go!! (My local salvage yard has some motors for $10, check locally!)

:) joe

You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
Any R/C type servo will work. Analog or digital.
I'm looking at adding animations to my Christmas display. I Googled servo motors and found them from $6 to nearly $500. Can you give me any idea what I would need to make Rudolf lift his head or Santa wave his hand? I know it will be a range based on materials, especially the weight of the materials.
Concept: wireframe Rudolf wrapped in garland and lights. I want his head to lift.

- Rimist

Sent from my HTC Glacier using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on November 23, 2011,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
Any R/C type servo will work. Analog or digital.
I'm looking at adding animations to my Christmas display. I Googled servo motors and found them from $6 to nearly $500. Can you give me any idea what I would need to make Rudolf lift his head or Santa wave his hand? I know it will be a range based on materials, especially the weight of the materials.
Concept: wireframe Rudolf wrapped in garland and lights. I want his head to lift.

- Rimist

Sent from my HTC Glacier using Tapatalk

If you counter-balance the item you're moving and eliminate as much friction as possible, that will go a long way in helping servos do their job. There are some very powerful servos on the market (google "high-torque digital servos"). In addition, using the DMX servo controller, you can gang multiple servos onto the same DMX channel to drive heavier items. Although that creates more complexity from a mechanical standpoint. It will take some thought and effort to make your items move with less force required. Build using light-weight materials where possible.

Also be aware that using high-powered servos to move heavier items will require more input power (power supply).

Here's an example of a powerful servo at a pretty cheap price: http://www.pololu.com/catalog/product/516 You would have to research and check reviews for whatever equipment you're thinking of buying.
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on November 27, 2011,: Now that this device has been released and is currently in coop, please use the new dedicated discussion board for any further questions and topics.

http://diylightanimation.com/index.php?board=46.0
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: 3demon on February 19, 2012,: Hi everybody, a newby question since im new to the site i want to ask where or how can i get the board cause i can figured out the mouser parts but can find how to get the pcb.

Thanks for you help
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: tbone321 on February 19, 2012,: As of the moment the only way to get one of these boards is to wait for a coop. Normally RJ orders extra boards during coops for most of his designs during coops and puts them in the store after the coop is over. I don't know if he did that this time because this was not designed by him. I would keep an eye on the store to see if it shows up otherwise you may need to wit for another coop. Since we just finished one it may be a little while before another one is stared. Another idea would be to post a request in the for sale area and maybe someone who bought extra boards may be willing to sell you some.
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: 3demon on February 20, 2012,: Thanks for the info i think i will go to etching one myself
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: tbone321 on February 20, 2012,: I'm not sure about the servo controller board but most of the boards available here are NOT public domain.
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: 3demon on February 20, 2012,: Ok thanks for the advice, so i will wait for the next coop.
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: holland lights on May 06, 2012,: You need to go to http://www.doityourselfchristmas.com/ for the true diy stuff. Alot of the stuff on their has schematics avaliable.
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: n1ist on May 07, 2012,: This board was not designed to be home-etched (it's double-sided and the spacing is a bit tight for most to do at home).

The schematics for the Bobcat boards are in the wiki.
/mike
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: tconley on May 09, 2012,: Is there any of these board available i am starting to prep my Halloween display. Has there been any coops?
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: dlhoppe on October 03, 2013,: Are there any Halloween projects in the works this year using this controller? I'd love to see that people are doing with it.

Dave
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: n1ist on October 03, 2013,: I just shipped out 116 of them; I hope people will post pictures of whatever they are using them in.
/mike
Title: Re: Beta-DMX Servo Controller Project (See first post for specs and features)
Post by: mkozik1 on October 06, 2013,: You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login
Are there any Halloween projects in the works this year using this controller? I'd love to see that people are doing with it.

Dave

Hi Dave,

I am using them with my 3-Axis skulls in my laboratory!!