Verilog Hdl Controlled Robot For Teaching Complex Systems Design

摘要

Verilog Hardware Descriptive Language (HDL) design tools are a valuable tool for the digital systems designer. Many undergraduate programs in electrical and computer engineering and computer science provide basic and advanced coursework on this topic. In an effort to provide a motivating (fun) atmosphere to teach HDL, we have developed an autonomous maze navigating robot. This robot was originally developed for use in a microcontroller-based Real Time Embedded Systems course to teach complex concepts such as Real Time Operating Systems (RTOS) and also fuzzy logic control. We have equipped the robot with an off-the-shelf CPLD development board. In this paper we will discuss the design of the robot modifications, the laboratory assignments to support use of the robot in a senior level, advanced digital design course, and the results of using the robot in the classroom. We will also discuss the valuable lessons learned by students in comparing a Verilog HDL system solution versus a microcontroller based solution to the same design challenge.