System Architecture:
Previous system:
System Highlights:
High data rate transmission
Support TCP/IP communication
28 dBm Transmission power (radio datasheet)
Challenges in the Original System:
Knowledge Gap
Complicated system for coordinating between multiple links
heavyweight
Ground station setup time and transportation
The omnidirectional antenna is not ideal for competition requirement
New Design Philosophy:
Modular
Decouple different radio link
One radio link only dedicated to one specific use case
Simplicity
Lightweight communication protocol
Portability
Omni-directional (Competition requires no human operator to operate the ground station antenna)
System Architecture:
Note: This communication link aims to ensure reliable communication at all times and to contain only limited critical information (Control input and GPS coordinate output) under limited bandwidth.
Key Feature:
Hardware:
MAX power output: 27 dBm(~500mW)
Configurable Frequency Range(REQUIRED BY COMPETITION): Narrow Band
Error Correction Code (Eliminate error during transmission)
RSSI monitoring(Radio Strength Indicator)
Baud Rate: 115200
Improved Omni-directional Antenna
UART data port with JST-GH connector compatible with any similar radio
Software:
Available SIK Radio Configuration Tool
Handshake before transmission
Custom lightweight Protocol: Device ID + Message Type + payload
Support MAX 127 device using the communication link(Unique Device ID)
Non-blocking UART listener
Timeout detection plus device reset
Future Roadmap
Antenna:
Radio Hardware:
Radio Software:
TCP/IP through UART using ROS 2 middleware
More Communication Link:
2.4/5.8 GHz for High data rate Middle Range Communication
Extended Radio Status Information
2 x Video Feed for Driver Control
Operate radio under unrestricted frequency Band
Operate radio under 1 Watt power output
Note: potentially considering obtaining a Canada Ham Radio license and operating a 2 Watt radio for better range performance.