par glnc222 » Mer 1 Aoû 2018 21:35
The BIT items are the on/off switches pressed by the bumber, two in front and one around each side. The display on screen will change as you press on the bumper and close each switch, separately or together. They make an audible clicking sound if working.
Other binary items are the control buttons on the panel, whether they are pressed or not.
Some sensor readings, I think the Mag strip sensors for one, require issuing the TESTMODE ON command, using the command feature or other feature of the Neato Control Program. Do not disconnect the USB line without issuing TESTMODE OFF as this is not automatic. The robot will not clean in Test Mode, which is for operating the motors separately for testing. A proper exit from the program before disconnecting may include a TESTMODE OFF.
I have not owned a Neato Robot for several years and use a Samsung, but corresponded with the programmer in Russia when the program was created. I have not used all of its features and it has been updated some since I last used it.
The sensor display updates continuously, so you test the sensors by activating and observing on screen the changes. For example, the Wall and Cliff sensors measure short distances to nearby reflecting objects, just within a couple inches. The figure 70 shown for the Wall Sensor is the maximum, 70mm, meaning nothing is detected. Move a hand close the sensor and the change can be seen on screen if that sensor is working. Sometimes those sensors require replacement. The Wall and Cliff sensor uses the same optical detector component.
The Mag Strip sensor can be tested by moving a piece of mag strip close to the bottom of the robot, where the sensors are in the protruding bottom squares, and observing the changes on screen,
A number of internal voltage and current measurements are shown, such as the External Voltage supplied by contact with the charger. The data shown is for the robot disconnected form the charger. Placing the robot on the charger may show close to 24v on that measure.
The sensor readings must be combined with detailed observation and description of particular function failures in the robot, such as not running, showing incorrect indicator lights, moving in strange ways, etc.
The voltages shown for battery as well as the Fuel Gauge per cent indicate a discharged battery which needs to be charge. Defects or wear on the battery can limit the charge which can be placed in the battery, its capacity. Additional observations are needed to analyze condition of batteries. Worn batteries typically will charge to the normal maximum voltage, but quickly discharge in use due to lost capacity. Worn batteries also charge quickly for the same reason.
The Botvac runs on a 12v NiMh battery system which will charge to a slightly higher voltage when full, and fall below 12v as it discharges. 10v is a minimum level below which the ten cell battery pack should not discharge without possible damage to the battery form over-discharge (similar to car batteries ruined by leaving the lights on...).
NiMh batteries self-discharge internally slowly in storage and when not used. Left off the charger for a year or more can damage these batteries. They should at least be charged once every six months if stored unused. Neato robots left in inventory for a year or more have been delivered with damaged NiMh batteries. The newer lithium batteries discharge much slower and do not have this problem. For small devices using AAA or AA batteries, the newer types such as Eneloop brand have improved NIMh chemistry which lasts longer unused, but this technology is not used in the higher capacity heavy duty cells needed for robot motors.
