Project ioai - BASIC Programming For The Bioloid

[srobot]

As I am sure, many people are interested in a BASIC style editor for Bioloid Motion Files (*.mtn) and Behavior Control Programs (*.bcp). What I am looking to do is do away with the CM-5, replacing it with a Linux or Windows based board (like the GumStix). For either system you will use the SAME code.

What is ioai?

ioai will be a standard BASIC style language for the Bioloid system which will be saved to a .txt format. ioai will also be a program running on a Linux or Windows based computer that will read the BASIC style text and execute it in a format that the Bioloid system can understand. The *.txt will be much like loading a virtual machine image into VMWare or VirtualBox. The program that will translate the code for actual use will be like Microsoft Visual Basic translating BASIC in to machine code.

While you will be able to write directly to a txt file, we will have an editor for error correction and for novice users.

Why?

This will enable Bioloid users who have a medium range of programming knowledge to take their Bioloid to the next level without having to first learn how to write and read directly from the Bioloid BUS.

What will the end user need?

To use ioai, you will need:

1) Dynamixels

2) USB2Dynamixel or HUV Robotics' USB BUS board

3) Power supply for Dynamixels

4) SBC with support for chosen Dynamixel interface board running Linux or has support for dotnet.

You will be able to use any BUS device with ioai version 1.0 as long as it follows the standards. This includes HUV Robotics's collection of sensors and I/O board, Hamid's camera, and StuartL/Random Matt's PS controller.

This list may change at any time.

When?

I currently have no idea when we will have a beta and final release.

This is a project I am doing in my "free time". We will reach version 1.0 much faster if we receive support from the community.

How can I help?

We currently need:

- Coders with knowledge of dotnet and/or Linux, and the Bioloid system.

What we will need:

- Graphic artiest who is willing to design images for the BASIC GUI.

After 1.0?

I am looking at the idea of making this software for Java, C and any other wanted languages. This will be done very easily with the back end I have in mind.

Is "ioai" the final name, and how to you pronounce it?

ioai is the working name, this may be changed for the final release.

Say the letter "I", then the letter "O", then the letter "A". This will sound a little like "Fly Away".

If you have any ideas be sure to let me know!