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I. Introduction

Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) students have a need to be able to design and build systems with embedded microprocessors. They also need to be able to become familiar with different processors. There are many different ways to teach microprocessors and their applications. The objective, in this case, is to have the students design and develop a system using a microprocessor they have not seen before. In this way, students learn that their basic knowledge can be carried over to other devices and systems. This paper describes a second semester sophomore laboratory project to design and build an autonomous robot vehicle capable of navigating an outside area the size of a small parking lot by guidance from a GPS sensor. The robotic vehicles normally use the frame of remote controlled cars. The students are divided into teams of 3 to 4 members. The teams compete at the end of the semester. The winner is the vehicle and completes the parking lot drive in the shortest time.

II. Project Laboratories

The laboratory structure in the ECE department at Texas Tech University is somewhat different than most university laboratories.1-8 There are five, three hour credit, required laboratory classes. Although all of the laboratories have pre-requisites, they are not associated with any one class. All of the laboratories require students to work in teams on long term projects. The student teams each have a project advisor, separate from the lab instructor and teaching assistant associated with each lab. All of the teams report on their progress and answer questions on their projects in a weekly three hour lab meeting with all of the groups. The first project laboratory, EE 3331, normally occurs in the second semester of the sophomore year. The prerequisites include the first English, chemistry and physics courses. ECE prerequisites include single courses in digital logic, circuits and microprocessors. All of the project labs have the same basic objectives. At the completion of this course students should be able to: 1. Identify, analyze and solve electrical or computer engineering problems by applying knowledge of mathematics, science and engineering with modern engineering tools. 2. Design a system, component or process to meet desired needs within realistic constraints 3. Communicate effectively through oral presentations and group discussions. 4. Communicate effectively through written reports and other documents.

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Parten, M., & Giesselmann, M. (2007, June), Microprocessor Based, Global Positioning System Guided Robot In A Project Laboratory Paper presented at 2007 Annual Conference & Exposition, Honolulu, Hawaii. 10.18260/1-2--2842