Ross Robotics designs modular, autonomous ground robots for renewable energy applications, particularly for HVDC converter halls. This case study explores how BotBlox hardware, specifically the PoEBlox and GigaBlox Nano, helped Ross Robotics solve critical networking challenges in their camera integration process.
Technology Overview
Ross Robotics needed a compact Ethernet solution to interface two high-performance cameras—Lumens Optical Camera and FLIR A700 Thermal Camera—while delivering Power over Ethernet (PoE).
- Power over Ethernet (PoE) simplifies networking by combining power and data transmission via a single cable.
- The challenge was ensuring safe and reliable PoE for expensive, high-performance cameras.
Key Points
Camera Setup
4K optical zoom and thermal imaging required gigabit Ethernet support and active PoE.
BotBlox Products
PoEBlox and GigaBlox Nano were tested to ensure reliable operation and EMC compatibility.
Modular Design
Ross Robotics benefitted from BotBlox’s shared 3D models, easing the custom chassis design process.
Testing and Results
- Initial tests using a Raspberry Pi + PoE Hat and benchtop PSU were successful.
- Prototype integration on the robot using PoEBlox and GigaBlox Nano showed smooth camera operation.
- Electro-Magnetic Compatibility (EMC) testing proved the system could handle environments with heavy electromagnetic interference.
By utilizing BotBlox’s PoEBlox and GigaBlox Nano, Ross Robotics successfully integrated high-performance cameras, opening doors to further third-party tool and sensor integration.
For a deeper dive into Ross Robotics’ successful integration process, read the full article on the BotBlox website >>
