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Dingo User Manual

Introduction​

Dingo is a lightweight and easy-to-use unmanned indoor ground vehicle for ROS.

There are two Dingo variants:

  • Dingo-D uses differential drive and has two module bays, one of which must be a battery module; the second module is typically a computer module.
  • Dingo-O uses omnidirectional drive and has four module bays, at least two of which are typically battery modules; the other modules may be computer modules or networking equipment.

danger

Mobile robots are inherently hazardous. It is the responsibility of the deployer to ensure that all personnel that may come into contact with the system are trained properly. It is also the responsibility of the deployer to understand the hazards presented and to ensure sufficient safeguards or other mitigations are in place. Refer to the Safety section of this manual for further details.

Shipment Contents​

Your Dingo shipment contains the following:

  • Dingo UGV (Dingo-D or Dingo-O variant)
  • One or more 12 V sealed lead-acid (SLA) or 14.4 V lithium batteries
  • One or more 110/220 V universal chargers for your batteries
  • One Sony PS4 Bluetooth controller
  • One Dingo quick start guide

If you elected to purchase standard payload modules or custom integration services with Dingo, then additional equipment will be included per your specific configuration, plus further documentation as required.

Hardware Overview​

System Architecture​

Dingo is built around a computer running Ubuntu (Intel-based computer or Jetson developer kit), paired with a 32-bit microcontroller MCU. The MCU handles I/O, power supply monitoring, and motor control, as well as supplying data from the integrated IMU. The communication channel between the MCU and computer is a Gigabit Ethernet connection.

Exterior Features​

The exteriors of Dingo-D and Dingo-O are shown below and include:

  • External payload mounts on the top trough cover;
  • 98.4 mm diameter wheels (Dingo-D) or 101.6 mm diameter mechanum wheels (Dingo-O);
  • Human machine interface panel (HMI);
  • Top (yellow) fairings;
  • Side access panels.
Dingo-D exterior
Dingo-O exterior

Human-Machine Interface (HMI) Details​

The human-machine-interface (HMI) panel is shown below and includes from left:

IconDescription
Motion Stop button: LED is solid green when Dingo is able to drive and flashing green when the Dingo's motors are disengaged; pressing button toggles the motors between engaged and disengaged mode (further details in Motion Stop Buttons)
Comms indictor: LED is solid green when communication between the MCU and computer has been established and LED is off otherwise
Wi-Fi indicator: LED is solid green when Wi-Fi is connected and LED is off otherwise
Battery indicator: LED is solid green when the battery level is ok, solid yellow when the battery level is getting low (should be charged soon), and solid red when the battery level is critical (should be charged immediately)
System Power button: LED is solid blue when the system is powered on and running and the LED is flashing blue during the shutdown process; when the system is powered off, pressing the power button begins the power on process; when the system is powered on, a quick press of the power button begins a graceful shutdown and a prolonged press of the power button triggers and immediate power off of the system
HMI Panel

Payload Details​

The interiors of Dingo-D and Dingo-O are shown below along with example payload modules.

To access Dingo's payload modules (computers or batteries), simply slide and remove the top (yellow) fairings. To access Dingo's MCU PCBA (for user power), remove the four M5 flathead screws from the top trough cover, and then remove the trough cover.

Area inside Dingo-D, with example modules
Area inside Dingo-O, with example modules

Corner LEDs and System State​

Dingo is equipped with LEDs at the four corners of the robot, which indicate the state of the system:

System StateCorner LED Output
IdleFront LEDs solid white (low intensity), rear LEDs solid red (low intensity)
DrivingFront LEDs solid white (medium intensity), rear LEDs solid red (medium intensity)
Motion stop engagedFlashing red LEDs
Low BatteryPulsing orange LEDs
Needs ResetAdjacent corners alternating between red and off
System FaultFlashing orange LEDs

While in "Idle" and "Driving" states, the user can override the LEDs by publishing to the /mcu/lights topic.

Optional Shore Power​

Dingo does provide an optional shore power connection to allow the system to be powered without requiring batteries to be present. Note that when shore power is connected, the motors are disabled and it is not possible to drive the Dingo; however, all other electronics (computers, sensors, etc) will remain enabled.

To connect the shore power, remove the top trough cover (to access the MCU) and then attach the shore power cable to the 2-port connector labelled "SHORE" on the MCU (see Electrical Integration for details).

Orientation References​

The reference frame used by all Clearpath Robotics ground robots is based on ISO 8855.

When commanded with a positive translational velocity (forward), wheels travel in the positive X-direction. The direction of the axes differs from those used for roll, pitch, and yaw in aircraft, and care should be taken to ensure that data is interpreted correctly.

System Specifications​

SpecificationDingo-D (Differential Drive)Dingo-O (Omnidirectional Drive)
Dimension, Length551 mm686 mm
Dimension, Width517 mm517 mm
Dimension, Height110 mm114 mm
Ground Clearance14 mm16 mm
Maximum Modules24
Maximum Payload20 kg20 kg
Speed, Maximum1.3 m/s1.3 m/s
Operating EnvironmentIndoorSame as Dingo-D
Operating Time2 hours (SLA), 4 hours (lithium)2 hours (2X SLA), 4 hours (2X lithium)
Battery ChemistryLithium or Sealed Lead-AcidSame as Dingo-D
Charge Time4 hoursSame as Dingo-D
User Power20 A @ VBAT (11-16.8 V), 7A @ 12 V, 5 A @ 5 VSame as Dingo-D
CommunicationEthernet, USB 3.0Same as Dingo-D
Internal SensingBattery Status, Wheel Odometry, Motor Currents, Onboard IMUSame as Dingo-D

Getting Started​

You are ready to go! This section details how to get Dingo into action. To begin, place Dingo "up on blocks" as described in the Safety section, making sure that the wheels are clear of the ground.

For most Dingo setups, there will be an Onboard Computer which is directly connected to the Dingo and a Remote Computer which is used to control Dingo and gather data. These two computers must be set up to communicate with each other.

Onboard Computer Setup​

If you purchased an Onboard Computer from Clearpath Robotics with Dingo, it is already installed, connected, and powered. If not, or to set up your own Onboard Computer, see the Dingo Tutorials.

Note that the Onboard Computer must be connected to Dingo's Ethernet port, which is accessible in the center channel.

Powering Up​

If you've just unpacked Dingo from its packaging, you may need to open it up and connect the battery.

Press the power button on Dingo's HMI panel. The LEDs should show a test pattern, after which you will wait about 30 seconds for the internal computer to finish booting up. Once it has finished booting, the Comms indicator should turn green. This indicates that ROS is up on the computer and has established communications with the Dingo base.

Network Configuration​

To get Dingo connected to your local Wi-Fi network, you must first access the Onboard Computer using a wired connection to the robot. Remove the top trough cover and the appropriate yellow fairing to access the computer module, then connect to one of the network ports with a standard Ethernet cable. See the Dingo Tutorials for details.

Connecting and Using the Controller​

To use your controller, it must be paired with your Dingo and powered on. If your purchased the Onboard Computer from Clearpath Robotics, your controller is already paired with your Dingo. If your controller has become unpaired or if you wish to pair a new controller, following the instructions in the Dingo Tutorials.

To teleoperate Dingo, first clear the motion-stop. Then, power on the controller by pressing the PS button on the controller. Once the blue LED on the top of the controller goes solid, you are paired and ready to drive.

Hold the L1 trigger button (deadman switch) and push the left thumbstick forward to drive the Dingo. For full speed mode, hold the R1 trigger. See the figure below for the Sony PS4 controls layout. If you are not seeing any action, refer to Support to get in touch with support.

PS4 Controls Layout

Using ROS​

Robot Operating System (ROS) is an extensible framework for controlling and working with robotic systems. Clearpath Robotics recommends using ROS with your robot. If this is your first time using ROS, it is strongly recommended to run through our series of ROS 101 tutorials to learn the basics of ROS.

Battery Charging​

When finished with the Dingo, press and release the power button to power it off. Then remove the batteries for charging.

Dingo's batteries are charged outside the Dingo using the charger(s) provided.

Alternatively, if you have multiple batteries, you can hot-swap them one at a time. The system will remain operational while hot-swapping as long as there is at least one battery in the system or the system is connected to shore power prior to removing the batteries. Note that plugging in shore power will engage a motion-stop and it is not possible to drive Dingo while connected to shore power.

The Sealed Lead-Acid batteries have overcurrent protection in the form of an ATO fuse. The lithium batteries include integrated protections against fault due to overcurrent, overdischarge, and short circuit. The batteries are rugged and designed for the demanding environments into which Dingo may be deployed.

However, please take note of the following:

  • SLA batteries must be charged while in a 0 to +45 ◦C range and discharged while in a -30 to +60 ◦C range.
  • Lithium batteries must be charged while in a 0 to +50 ◦C range and discharged while in a -20 to +60 ◦C range.
  • The batteries must not be punctured or disassembled.
  • The batteries should be dropped off or delivered to your local hazardous waste authority for disposal.
  • When traveling with Dingo, consult your airline's restrictions regarding lithium batteries (if applicable). If possible, bring the batteries in your carry on luggage, where they will be subject to normal cabin temperatures and pressures.

Please contact Clearpath Robotics for additional information about Dingo's batteries or for information about purchasing additional batteries.

Safety Considerations​

Clearpath Robotics is committed to high standards of safety. Dingo contains several features to protect the safety of users and the integrity of the robot.

caution

Dingo is a fast moving robotic platform. Please read the following notices carefully.

General Warnings​

Dingo is a rugged and high-performance vehicle. For the safety of yourself and others, always conduct initial experiments and software development with the vehicle raised off the ground. Place a wooden crate, a set of sawhorses, a sturdy storage tub, or any other solid flat structure having a height greater than 150 mm (6 inches) under Dingo to keep the wheels clear of the ground ("up on blocks").

When starting out, favour slower wheel speeds. Dingo's control loops can accurately maintain velocities as low as 0.1 m/s. Operating at such speeds will give you more time to react if things don't go quite as you expect.

Motion Stop Buttons​

The Motion Stop button is located on the HMI Panel at the back of Dingo. To engage Stop Mode, press the Motion Stop button once; you should see that the green LED by the Motion Stop button is flashing and that all four corner LEDs are flashing red. To disengage Stop Mode, press the Motion Stop button again; all LEDs should return to their original values.

When in Stop Mode, the Dingo will not drive. The commands received while in Stop Mode are not buffered; Dingo will always act on the latest commands received. This means that if the commands are stopped before the Motion Stop button is pressed to disengage Stop Mode, the Dingo will not move. If the commands are continued, Dingo will move at the speed commanded once the Motion Stop button is pressed to disengage Stop Mode.

Ensure that the Motion Stop button is accessible at all times. Avoid mounting payloads that extend over the rear of Dingo and would block access to the Motion Stop button.

Note that the Dingo MCU board does provide a breakout to allow an external motion-stop button/switch to be integrated by the end user, which could be used to engage/disengage Stop Mode. See Optional External Motion Stop for details on adding an external motion-stop button/switch.

Electrical System​

Dingo is powered by batteries capable of delivering over 2000W for short durations. This gives Dingo's motors their great performance; however, it is also enough power to cause severe bodily harm. Always use caution when operating Dingo to avoid personal injury or property damage. To ensure safety, please observe the following precautions:

  • Do not tamper with the battery terminals or wiring.
  • Do not tamper with the fuses, except to check and change the fuses.
  • Always replace fuses with the same type and rating to ensure continued protection against risk of fires.
  • Consult Clearpath Robotics support if you need to service the batteries.
  • Do not lay tools or other objects on top of the batteries.
  • Charge the battery only with the charger provided by Clearpath Robotics.
  • Please dispose of the batteries properly or return them to Clearpath Robotics to do so.

Lifting and Transport​

  • Ensure that Dingo's Stop Mode is engaged when transporting short distances and powered off when transporting longer distances.
  • Do not push the robot at more than 0.5 m/s (1.6 ft/s) or damage to the motor controls may occur.

Performance Considerations​

Included in Dingo are native software checks and limits to protect the robot. However, it is recommended to monitor the system's status during usage with the /status and /diagnostics topics. These topics provide useful information regarding voltages, currents, temperatures and general health of the system.

Clearpath Robotics recommends the following procedures be followed to reduce the likelihood of harm.

  • Maintain a safe distance of at least 10 m from the robot whenever possible.
  • Never assume that the robot can be reliably stopped on command.
  • Assert a stop using the remote stop device (if present) before approaching the robot.
  • Never place the remote stop device (if present) on or inside the robot.
  • Always be vigilant around the robot, even when a stop is asserted.
  • Perform no maintenance or troubleshooting on the robot without training and familiarisation.
  • Follow electrical safety best practices when working with electrical systems and components.
  • Disconnect battery using main disconnect of the robot before working inside robot.
  • Wear personal protective equipment including high-visibility clothing, head and eye protection while operating, observing or working on the robot.
  • Never climb on or ride the robot.
  • Never lie on the ground under or near the robot.
  • Avoid operating the robot on slopes and grades.
  • Never stand downhill of the robot.
  • Operate the robot at the lowest speed possible.
  • Never attempt to defeat a safety function for any reason.
  • Chock the robot's wheels when the robot will be stationary for more than a few seconds.
  • Never work on the robot while it is on a slope.
  • Replace fuses only with identical product from specified manufacturer.
  • Discontinue use and contact Clearpath Robotics support at the first sign of strange robot behaviour.
  • Keep tools and loose parts away from electrical components and out of the robot's bays.
  • Check the functionality of stop systems on a regular basis, including before and after each use.

Support​

Clearpath is committed to your success. Please get in touch with us and we will do our best to get you rolling again quickly: support@clearpathrobotics.com.

To get in touch with a salesperson regarding Clearpath Robotics products, please email sales@clearpathrobotics.com.

If you have an issue that is specifically about ROS and is something which may be of interest to the broader community, consider asking it on https://answers.ros.org. If you do not get a satisfactory response, please ping us and include a link to your question as posted there. If appropriate, we will answer in the ROS Answers context for the benefit of the community.

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