Abstract:

In this work, a Graphical User Interface (GUI) for controlling robots is presented. The aim of this GUI is to enable simple and intuitive control of robots so students or non-expert users learn about mobile robotics using game-based strategies. Moreover, they become initiated into the world of robotics in a friendly manner. Combining technology learning and game-based strategies will engage current generations of “digital natives” in their education.

Successfully operating a robot implies deep experience and technical knowledge in advanced robotics. However, using the GUI presented in this paper, students will acquire this knowledge progressively and amicably. This work contributes to the inclusion of innovative techniques in education from a practical approach making students active participants in their learning processes. Students will get the feeling of being playing, while they get basic notions of robotics software and hardware.

The provided system will work with robots equipped with Robot Operating System (ROS) framework and will allow for controlling and monitoring the robot using different strategies. Using the GUI, students will be able to teleoperate the robot, varying its speed and direction; to command the robot to follow a person or another robot; to visualize the real-time images of the robot vision, among other functionalities.

The interface has been developed combining ROS and Qt under the programming language C++. Thanks to this design, the system offers the possibility to include and integrate new functionalities easily. Finally, experiments on real robot operation through the proposed Graphical User Interface were developed using two robots: Turtlebot 2 platform and mob·E, a developed robotic platform. The experimental results show the usability of the system and its feasibility for education.

Keywords:

Robotics, Gamification, Robot education.