In robotics, efficient actuator control is crucial for precision, responsiveness, and automation. JetCore, a high-performance carrier board for NVIDIA Jetson modules, provides the necessary hardware interfaces to integrate Jetson-based AI computing with robotic drive systems.
JetCore does not process AI models or execute control algorithms itself—it enables seamless connectivity between Jetson modules and external motor controllers, actuators, and drive systems. This blog explores how JetCore simplifies integration with robotic motion systems, ensuring smooth communication between AI computing and hardware execution.
JetCore: The Bridge Between Jetson and Robotic Motion Systems
While Jetson modules handle AI-based perception, motion planning, and high-level decision-making, JetCore provides the hardware-level connectivity required to interface with actuators and drive systems.
Key Features of JetCore for Robotic Motion Integration:
| Feature | Purpose in Robotics |
|---|---|
| CAN Bus | Communicates with industrial motor controllers (synchronized multi-axis control) |
| UART (Serial Communication) | Interfaces with motor controllers like ODrive, Roboclaw, or serial-based ESCs |
| PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) | Sends control signals to servo motors and speed controllers |
| Ethernet | Enables high-speed communication with networked motor controllers |
| USB & I2C | Expands connectivity for additional sensor and actuator control boards |
These interfaces ensure Jetson-based AI applications can seamlessly command robotic actuators via JetCore.
Integrating JetCore with Robotic Actuators & Drive Systems
Step 1: Selecting a Motor Controller Compatible with JetCore
Since JetCore itself does not directly drive actuators, a motor controller is required. The choice of controller depends on the actuator type:
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For Servo Motors: Use JetCore’s PWM output.
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For BLDC Motors: Connect via CAN Bus (e.g., VESC, ODrive) or UART (e.g., Roboclaw).
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For Stepper Motors: Use UART, CAN, or Ethernet-based controllers like Trinamic or GeckoDrive.
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For Industrial Robots: Connect EtherCAT or CAN-based motor controllers.
Step 2: Wiring & Communication Setup
Once the motor controller is selected, set up communication with JetCore:
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PWM Control: Connect JetCore’s PWM pins to the motor controller for speed and position control.
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UART Communication: Connect JetCore’s UART port to motor controllers, ensuring correct baud rate settings.
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CAN Bus Setup: Use JetCore’s CAN interface to establish multi-node communication with industrial drive systems.
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Ethernet-Based Controllers: Assign a network IP to communicate over TCP/IP.
Step 3: Software Configuration
To enable smooth actuator control, software configurations are required:
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Install Jetson GPIO libraries for configuring PWM outputs.
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Enable CAN Bus support in Jetson Linux to communicate with motor controllers.
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Use ROS 2 for actuator coordination, leveraging real-time motion control frameworks.
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Implement AI-based motion planning on Jetson, with commands sent through JetCore.
Step 4: Testing & Optimization
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Use ROS tools like
rqt_graphto visualize motor control interactions. -
Optimize communication latency for real-time robotic applications.
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Tune PID parameters in motor controllers to refine actuator precision.
Applications of JetCore in Robotic Motion Control
1. Mobile Robots & AGVs
JetCore enables autonomous guided vehicles (AGVs) and mobile robots to integrate motor controllers for AI-powered navigation.
2. Robotic Arms & Automation Systems
Industrial robotic arms can receive AI-generated motion commands from Jetson modules via JetCore’s CAN or Ethernet interfaces.
3. Drones & UAVs
JetCore’s PWM and UART support allows it to interface with flight controllers and ESCs for stable UAV operation.
4. AI-Driven Prosthetics & Exoskeletons
With real-time AI inference on Jetson, robotic prosthetics can leverage JetCore’s actuator interfaces for responsive movement.
Conclusion
JetCore serves as a critical bridge between NVIDIA Jetson modules and robotic actuators, ensuring seamless integration of AI-powered motion control. While JetCore does not process AI tasks itself, it provides essential hardware interfaces for connecting Jetson-based computing to motor controllers, servo drivers, and industrial drive systems.
For robotics developers, JetCore simplifies the transition from AI-powered motion planning to real-world actuator control, enabling smooth and precise robotic movement across various applications.
Interested in integrating JetCore with your robotic system? Explore its capabilities and streamline your AI-driven automation today! 🚀
