Project Communication system

System Architecture:

Previous system:

 

Original Communication system arch.drawio.png
Figure 1.0: Original communication system using TCP/IP

 

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

System Architecture:

 

Current Communication System Architecture Diagram.drawio.png
Figure 1.1 Current System Architecture using UART

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:

Note: these hardware are ideal after the whole communication system is solidified and the limitation of the current radio system is observed and cannot solved easily. Because the cost of replacing a radio like this is extremely high.

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 (additional for higher bandwidth not critical for rover communication system)

    • Extended Radio Status Information

    • 2 x Video Feed for Driver Control

Canada Legal requirement:

  • 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.