Changes for page FlowArm LSS

Last modified by Eric Nantel on 2024/07/03 09:39
From version < 172.1 >
edited by Eric Nantel
on 2021/09/21 08:20
To version < 91.1 >
edited by Eric Nantel
on 2019/10/17 15:12
< >
Change comment: Upload new image "lss-flowarm-gripper-view.png", version 1.1

Summary

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1 1  {{lightbox image="LSS-FlowArm.png" width="400"/}}
2 2  
3 -[[[[image:[email protected]]]>>https://www.robotshop.com/en/lss-flowarm-app-download.html||rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"]]
3 +[[[[image:[email protected]]]>>https://www.lynxmotion.com/tools/LSS_FlowArm.zip]]
4 4  
5 5  **Page Contents**
6 6  
7 -{{toc depth="2"/}}
7 +{{toc/}}
8 8  
9 9  = Description =
10 10  
11 -The LSS FlowArm application is intended to allow easy control of the standard Lynxmotion Servo Erector Set (SES) V2 robotic arms. Either the four degree of freedom (4DoF) or three degree of freedom (3DoF) arm is selected and the graphical interface shows multiple views of the arm which can be controlled via drag and drop, as well as by manually inputting coordinates. The full-featured built-in sequencer allows you create sequences which moves the arm automatically from one position ("frame") to the next. Make use of the "teach mode" to position the arm where you want and record frames which can be modified and played back. Associating each pattern with input keys means you can easily play back and test multiple sequences.
11 +The LSS FlowArm application is intended to allow easy control of the standard Lynxmotion Servo Erector Set (S.E.S.) v2 articulated robotic arm. The graphical interface shows multiple views of the arm which can be controlled via drag and drop, as well as by manually inputting coordinates. The full-featured built-in sequencer allows you create sequences which have the arm move automatically from one position ("frame") to the next. Make use of the "teach mode" to position the arm where you want and record frames which can be modified and played back. Associating each pattern with input keys means you can easily play back and test multiple sequences.
12 12  
13 13  FlowBotics Studio was used to create this app and includes hundreds of built-in components that allow you to interface your PC to many standard computer peripherals and robotics components, and you can quickly design new components for new hardware. Easily create new projects with custom GUI screens, knobs, buttons, switches, etc. that will run live from within FlowBotics Studio without needing to wait for compilation, or export as stand-alone executable files. FlowBotics Studio includes a powerful graphics engine that allows you to make custom graphical objects by using standard bitmaps or by drawing your own shapes on the screen. Using this system, you can build entirely custom interfaces like this one for your projects and integrate photographs, drawings, and graphs.
14 14  
15 15  = Features =
16 16  
17 -* Graphical interface for the Lynxmotion SES V2 3DoF and 4DoF robot arms
17 +* Graphical interface for the Lynxmotion SES V2 articulated robot arm
18 18  * Full featured sequencer allows recording and playback of many sequences via keyboard input
19 19  * Teach mode allows the user to move the arm and have the virtual arm follow
20 20  * Position the arm using rectangular or cylindrical coordinates, virtual joysticks or mouse drag
21 21  * Application can be modified via FlowBotics Studio
22 22  * Optional data log shows what commands are sent and received and can be saved as a .csv file.
23 -* LSS FlowArm is intended only for the Windows 7 operating system or higher.
23 +* LSS FlowArm is intended only for Windows operating systems 7 or higher.
24 24  
25 25  = Initial Setup =
26 26  
27 -In order to understand the features, functionality and nuances of the Lynxmotion smart servos, it is suggested to read through the [[doc:lynxmotion-smart-servo.WebHome]] section of the wiki. Before assembling the arm, each of the IDs assigned to the servos must correspond with what is needed in the software.
27 +In order to understand the features, functionality and nuances of the Lynxmotion smart servos, it is suggested to read through the [[doc:lynxmotion-smart-servo.WebHome]] section of the wiki.
28 28  
29 -(% style="width:700px" %)
30 -|(% style="text-align:center" %)**LSS - 4 DoF Arm **|(% style="text-align:center" %)**LSS - 3 DoF Arm **
31 -|{{lightbox image="https://www.robotshop.com/info/wiki/lynxmotion/download/servo-erector-set-robots-kits/ses-v2-robots/ses-v2-arms/lss-4dof-arm/4dof-arm-quickstart/4dof-servo-setup/WebHome/SESV2-LSS-ARTICULATED-ARM-IDS.PNG" width="350"/}}|{{lightbox image="https://www.robotshop.com/info/wiki/lynxmotion/download/servo-erector-set-robots-kits/ses-v2-robots/ses-v2-arms/lss-3-dof-arm/3dof-arm-quickstart/3dof-servo-setup/WebHome/LSS-3DOF-IDS.PNG?=" width="350"/}}
32 -| |Gripper servo ID already assigned via LSS-2IO
29 +Before assembling the arm, each of the IDs assigned to the servos must correspond with what is needed in the software.
33 33  
31 +{{lightbox image="https://www.robotshop.com/info/wiki/lynxmotion/download/servo-erector-set-robots-kits/ses-v2-robots/ses-v2-arms/lss-articulated-arm/lss-articulated-arm-servo-setup/WebHome/SESV2-LSS-ARTICULATED-ARM-IDS.PNG" width="350"/}}
32 +
34 34  To do so, the [[LSS Configuration Software>>doc:lynxmotion-smart-servo.lss-configuration-software.WebHome]] is used. Follow the procedure outlined here: [[doc:lynxmotion-smart-servo.lss-configuration-software.lss-config-configure-ids.WebHome]]
35 35  
36 36  * Servo ID is correctly assigned to each servo and there are no duplicate IDs
... ... @@ -47,31 +47,26 @@
47 47  1. Connect the power to the LSS Adapter via the yellow XT60 plug
48 48  1. Power on the robot (On/Off switch)
49 49  1. Start the LSS FlowArm software
50 -1. Select the type of LSS Arm you are using (3 DoF / 4 DoF)
51 -1. Select the appropriate COM port from the drop-down list & the baud rate (115200)
49 +1. Select the appropriate COM port from the drop-down list & the baudrate (115200)
52 52  1. The software sends a query to servo ID1 and once a reply is received, it determines connection has been established.
53 53  
54 54  == Connecting via Bluetooth ==
55 55  
56 -If you have purchased a Bluetooth module which is in XBee format, ensure to have the right baud rate on your bluetooth adapter, the default is 115 200 for the LSS.
54 +If you have purchased a Bluetooth module which is in XBee format, ensure to have the right baudrate on your bluetooth adapter, the default is 115 200 for the LSS.
57 57  
58 58  = Interface =
59 59  
60 -[[image:lss-flowarm-size.jpg]]
61 -
62 -A the top right of the window, there are three dark rectangles allowing you to change the application's window size.
63 -
64 64  == Header ==
65 65  
66 66  [[image:lss-flowarm-header.png||alt="lss-flowarm-header"]]
67 67  
68 -=== ARM TYPE ===
62 +**EMERGENCY STOP**
69 69  
70 -This drop-down allows you to select either the 3DoF or 4DoF robotic arm. The 3DoF is selected by default.
64 +At any given time you can click this button to stop the arm. This will send a "LIMP" command directly to all servos.
71 71  
72 -=== STORE OFFSETS ===
66 +**STORE OFFSETS**
73 73  
74 -The "STORE OFFSETS" button configures all of the servo offsets (this makes use of the 'CO' command as part of the [[LSS Communication Protocol>>doc:lynxmotion-smart-servo.lss-communication-protocol.WebHome]]). Before pressing the button, orient the arm as shown below (with the gripper closed), and only then click the STORE OFFSETS button. This setup only need to be done once when first setting up the arm.
68 +The "STORE OFFSETS" button configures all of the servo offsets (this makes use of the CO command as part of the [[LSS Communication Protocol>>doc:lynxmotion-smart-servo.lss-communication-protocol.WebHome]]). Before pressing the button, orient the arm as shown below (with the gripper closed), and only then click the STORE OFFSETS button.
75 75  
76 76  * Base servo aligned with the x axis
77 77  * Shoulder to elbow along z axis (straight up)
... ... @@ -79,38 +79,34 @@
79 79  * Wrist servo along R axis (parallel to elbow to wrist)
80 80  * Gripper servo closed
81 81  
82 -|(% colspan="2" rowspan="1" style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle" %)**4 DoF**|(% colspan="2" rowspan="1" style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle" %)**3 DoF **
83 -|(% style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-offset-left.png||alt="lss-flowarm-left.png" width="200"]]|(% style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-offset-top.png||alt="lss-flowarm-top.png" width="200"]]|(% style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-offset-left-3dof.png||alt="lss-flowarm-left-3dof.png" width="200"]]|(% style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-top-3dof.png||alt="lss-flowarm-left-3dof.png" width="200"]]
76 +(% style="width:700px" %)
77 +|(% style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-offset-left.png||alt="lss-flowarm-left.png" height="300" width="300"]]|(% style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-offset-top.png||alt="lss-flowarm-top.png" height="300" width="300"]]
84 84  
85 -=== LIMP ===
79 +**LIMP**
86 86  
87 -Causes all servos to slowly go LIMP (i.e. lose torque), gradually loosing torque until hitting the ground. It's important to note that the software will not constantly query all servos for their position, and as such the virtual arm on screen will not update frequently, if at all. If you want the virtual arm on screen to update as you move the real arm, use TEACH mode described below.
81 +Causes all servos to slowly go LIMP (i.e. lose torque), gradually loosing torque until hitting the ground. It's important to note that the software will not constantly query all servos for their position, and as such the virtual arm on screen will not update frequently if at all. If you want the virtual arm on screen to update as you move the real arm, use TEACH mode described below.
88 88  
89 -=== HALT & HOLD ===
83 +**STOP**
90 90  
91 91  Causes all servos to immediately stop their motion and hold their position.
92 92  
93 -=== TEACH ===
87 +**TEACH**
94 94  
95 95  Teach mode allows a user to physically move the arm and have the virtual arm on screen follow. This is used primarily to manually add frames to sequences, determine the optimal closed position for the gripper etc. In order to ensure the arm does not collapse, pressing the TEACH button will start a 5 second countdown during which the arm will slowly lose torque (angular force) until all servos are limp. When in teach mode, an orange outline appears over all on-screen fields which would cause a conflict and therefore cannot be used.
96 96  
97 -CAREFUL: Do not move the servos or the arm too quickly. We suggest holding the gripper servo to move the arm. In the case of the 4DoF arm, temporarily remove the arm's aesthetic plastic shell.
91 +CAREFUL: Do not move the servos or the arm too quickly. We suggest holding the gripper servo to move the arm, or temporarily removing the arm's aesthetic shell.
98 98  
99 99  Once the arm is limp, it can be moved physically, and the application will regularly send position query commands to all of the servos and update the virtual arm on screen to match the servo's responses. Use the sequencer to record each position (frame) while in teach mode. For more information on the sequencer, refer to the sequencer section below.
100 100  
101 -=== EMERGENCY STOP ===
95 +**GRID / Units**
102 102  
103 -At any given time you can click this button to stop the arm. This will send a "LIMP" command directly to all servos.
97 +Grid spacing can be toggled between Metric or Imperial. Options include 2cm, 3cm, 5cm and 1in, 2in and 3in.
104 104  
105 -=== GRID ===
99 +**BAUD**
106 106  
107 -Grid spacing can be toggled between Metric (centimeters) or Imperial (inches). Options include 2cm, 3cm, 5cm and 1in, 2in and 3in.
108 -
109 -=== BAUD ===
110 -
111 111  The default (and suggested) baud rate is 115200, which is the baud rate at which the servos are shipped. Should a user have changed the baud rate on the servos, it can be selected using the drop down. Note that the baud rate must be configured to the same value for all servos in order to work.
112 112  
113 -=== COM ===
103 +**COM**
114 114  
115 115  When the software is opened, a scan of all of your computer's COM ports is done automatically and a list of all available COM ports will be found in the drop down menu, along with OFF (stop searching for a COM port), and AUTO (the application tries to automatically find the correct COM port by sending a query command at the corresponding BAUD rate). Select which of your computer's COM ports is connected to the [[LSS Adapter>>doc:servo-erector-set-system.ses-electronics.ses-modules.lss-adapter-board.WebHome]] (which is provided with the standard SES v2 articulated robot arm). If you have a list of available COM ports and are unsure which is associated with the LSS Adapter, go to Device Manager in Windows, and view the list of USB devices connected. The LSS Adapter uses an FTDI USB to serial chip. Alternatively, simply unplug the USB from the arm and see which of the COM ports disappears from the list.
116 116  
... ... @@ -118,41 +118,34 @@
118 118  * If the red light is solid, then no correct COM port has been located.
119 119  * If the green light is solid, the a COM port has been located.
120 120  
121 -= VIEWS =
111 +**Window Size**
122 122  
123 -=== Side view ===
113 +**[[image:lss-flowarm-size.jpg]]**
124 124  
125 -The left view is a representation of the arm, where the orange circles represent the location of each axis of rotation. You can move the arm in this view by clicking on and dragging anywhere in that side view screen.
115 +A the top right of the window, there are three dark rectangles allowing you to change the application's window size.
126 126  
127 -Keyboard shortcuts in the side view include (W, A, S, D):
117 +== Simulator ==
128 128  
129 -**W**, **S**: Up & down
119 +(% class="wikigeneratedid" id="HArmConfiguration" %)
120 +The arm shown on screen is based on the assembly guide. The aesthetics of the arms will be changing for the next release version of the LSS Flowarm software.
130 130  
131 -**A**, **D**: Left & right (closer / farther from base)
122 +**Side View**
132 132  
133 -(% style="width:700px" %)
134 -|(% style="text-align:center" %)**4 DoF**|(% style="text-align:center" %)**3 DoF**
135 -|(% style="text-align:center" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-left.png||width="300"]]|(% style="text-align:center" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-left-3dof.png||alt="lss-flowarm-left.png" width="300"]]
124 +The left view is a representation of the arm, where the orange circles represent the location of each axis of rotation. You can move the arm in this view by clicking on and dragging the wrist rotation servo.
136 136  
137 -=== Top view ===
126 +[[image:lss-flowarm-left.png||width="300"]]
138 138  
139 -The top view shows the arm top down. You can move the arm within this view by clicking on and dragging the dot right next to the gripper.
128 +**Top View**
140 140  
141 -Keyboard Shortcuts: Arrow keys (▲▼◄►)
130 +The top view shows the arm top down. You can move the arm within this view by clicking on and dragging the wrist rotation servo.
142 142  
143 -▲▼: Along Y
132 +**[[image:lss-flowarm-top.png||width="300"]]**
144 144  
145 -◄►: Along X
134 +=== Shortcuts ===
146 146  
147 -(% style="width:700px" %)
148 -|(% style="text-align:center" %)**LSS - 4 DoF Arm **|(% style="text-align:center" %)**LSS - 3 DoF Arm **
149 -|(% style="text-align:center" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-top.png||width="300"]]|(% style="text-align:center" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-top-3dof.png||alt="lss-flowarm-top.png" width="300"]]
150 -
151 -== Shortcuts ==
152 -
153 153  **Base**: If you hold the SHIFT key while dragging with the mouse you can control base rotation.
154 154  
155 -**Wrist Tilt**: You can tilt the hand by right-clicking and dragging the mouse up and down.
138 +**Wrist Tilt**: You can tilt the hand by right-clicking and fragging the mouse up and down.
156 156  
157 157  **Gripper:** By holding the CTRL key whilst right-clicking and dragging you can open and close the gripper
158 158  
... ... @@ -166,132 +166,139 @@
166 166  
167 167  == Left Menu ==
168 168  
169 -=== Gripper ===
152 +**Gripper**
170 170  
171 -Assuming the gripper has been properly calibrated, The number below represents the opening at the tip. Fully closed should correspond to 0 degrees. Because the 4DoF uses a smart servo, it includes the 'CH' modifier command which causes the servo to stop when it detects a specific current. This allows the user to send a "close" command and the servo will automatically stop when a specific force is applied to the object. The 3DoF uses an RC servo which does not have this feature, so be sure to set the appropriate position when grasping an object.
154 +Assuming the gripper has been properly calibrated, The number below represents the opening at the tip. Fully closed should correspond to 0 degrees. In order to grasp an object, DO NOT have the servo rotate to a position which it cannot reach. In order to ensure the gripper servo does not go into error mode, the gripper should not exert much force on the object.
172 172  
173 -(% style="width:700px" %)
174 -|(% style="text-align:center" %)**4 DoF**|(% style="text-align:center" %)**3 DoF **
175 -|(% style="text-align:center" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-gripper-view.png||alt="lss-flowarm-gripper-view.jpg"]]|(% style="text-align:center" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-gripper-view-3dof.png||alt="lss-flowarm-gripper-view.jpg"]]
156 +1. Close the gripper to a position just slightly larger than the object
157 +1. Using the arrows, close the gripper until friction between the foam and the object prevent the object from falling out or moving.
158 +1. DO NOT apply too much pressure, or else the servo's current will spike and it will go into error mode and need to be reset.
159 +1. Use the last position as the "fully closed" position for the gripper for that object, in that specific orientation.
176 176  
177 -=== Wrist ===
161 +[[image:lss-flowarm-gripper-view.jpg]]
178 178  
179 -The wrist angle can be locked or unlocked. The input field on the 4 DoF allows for decimal input (click the numbers) or fine adjustments using the arrows. The 3DoF does not have wrist articulation, but since the bracket can be installed horizontally or vertically, clicking this will change the orientation of the gripper.
163 +**Wrist**
180 180  
181 -|(% colspan="2" rowspan="1" style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle" %)**4 DoF**|(% colspan="2" rowspan="1" style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle" %)**3 DoF**
182 -|(% style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-wrist-view.png||alt="lss-flowarm-wrist-view.jpg"]]|(% style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-wrist-angle-view.png||alt="lss-flowarm-wrist-view.jpg"]]|(% style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-wrist-view-3dof.png||alt="lss-flowarm-wrist-view.jpg"]]|(% style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-wrist-angle-view-3dof.png||alt="lss-flowarm-wrist-view.jpg"]]
165 +The wrist angle can be locked or unlocked. The field allows for user input (click the numbers) or fine adjustments using the arrows.
183 183  
184 -=== End Effector Position ===
167 +[[image:lss-flowarm-wrist-view.jpg]]
185 185  
186 -The position of the end effector can be controlled either by manually entering the information for R (radius), or the Cartesian x, y, z coordinates, or using the arrows. When in keyboard mode, there is an overlay indicating which keys do what motion.
169 +**End Effector Position**
187 187  
188 -[[image:lss-flowarm-positioning.png||alt="lss-flowarm-positioning.jpg"]]
171 +The position of the end effector can be controlled either by manually entering the information for R (radius), or the Cartesian x, y, z coordinates, or using the arrows.
189 189  
190 -== Data Log ==
173 +When in keyboard mode, there is an overlay indicating which keys do what motion.
191 191  
175 +[[image:lss-flowarm-positioning.jpg]]
176 +
177 +== **Data Log** ==
178 +
192 192  The optional Data log (normally hidden) can be toggled on or off and allows the user to see all commands being sent to and received from the smart servos. The data can be saved to a file in a Comma Separated Values (.csv) format.
193 193  
194 -[[image:lss-flowarm-data-log.png||alt="lss-flowarm-data-log.jpg"]]
181 +[[image:lss-flowarm-data-log.jpg]]
195 195  
196 196  = Sequencer =
197 197  
198 -[[image:lss-flowarm-sequencer.png||alt="lss-flowarm-sequencer.jpg"]]
185 +[[image:lss-flowarm-sequencer.jpg]]
199 199  
200 200  LSS FlowArm has a powerful pattern sequencer component (normally found only in the full version of FlowBotics Studio) that is used to create reusable patterns within minutes, instead of hours or days.
201 201  
202 -(% style="width:1037px" %)
203 -|(% style="width:207px" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-association.jpg]]|(% style="width:186px" %)Assign Input|(% style="width:662px" %)Patterns can be associated to keyboard keys F1 to F12, and keys E, F, G, and H
204 -|(% style="width:207px" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-pattern-list.jpg]]|(% style="width:186px" %)Sequence List|(% style="width:662px" %)The sequence list is the first control on the sequencer.
205 -|(% style="width:207px" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-patterns.jpg]]|(% style="width:186px" %)Sequence Management|(% style="width:662px" %)(((
189 +(% style="width:1303px" %)
190 +|(% style="width:257px" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-association.jpg]]|(% style="width:306px" %)Assign Input|(% style="width:758px" %)Patterns can be associated to keyboard keys F1 to F12, and keys E, F, G, and H
191 +|(% style="width:257px" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-pattern-list.jpg]]|(% style="width:306px" %)Sequence List|(% style="width:758px" %)The sequence list is the first control on the sequencer.
192 +|(% style="width:257px" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-patterns.jpg]]|(% style="width:306px" %)Sequence Management|(% style="width:758px" %)(((
206 206  Add, remove, duplicate, save, load and clear all patterns.
207 207  )))
208 -|(% style="width:207px" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-frames.jpg]]|(% style="width:186px" %)Frame Options|(% style="width:662px" %)Adding a frame adds a blank frame to the list. The drop-down list gives "useful" pre-made frames. Recording a frame copies the arm's current on-screen position. The X removes a selected frame.
209 -|(% style="width:207px" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-copy-paste.jpg]]|(% style="width:186px" %)Copy / Paste Frame|(% style="width:662px" %)Copy and paste a frame
210 -|(% style="width:207px" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-settings.jpg]]|(% style="width:186px" %)Operations / Settings|(% style="width:662px" %)Useful features include: Toggle pause before frame; Remove gaps between frames; Reverse frames
211 -|(% style="width:207px" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-lock.jpg]]|(% style="width:186px" %)Lock |(% style="width:662px" %)Timeline locking
212 -|(% style="width:207px" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-loop.jpg]]|(% style="width:186px" %)Repeat / Loop Pattern|(% style="width:662px" %)Play once or loop; Set the playback speed using the up and down arrows.
213 -|(% style="width:207px" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-play.jpg]]|(% style="width:186px" %)Sequence Playback|(% style="width:662px" %)Restart sequence, play or stop
214 -|(% style="width:207px" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-inspector.png]]|(% style="width:186px" %)Frame Inspector|(% style="width:662px" %)Allows to modify the values sent in a particular frame manually.
195 +|(% style="width:257px" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-frames.jpg]]|(% style="width:306px" %)Frame Options|(% style="width:758px" %)Adding a frame adds a blank frame to the list. The drop-down list gives "useful" pre-made frames. Recording a frame copies the arm's current on-screen position. The X removes a selected frame.
196 +|(% style="width:257px" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-copy-paste.jpg]]|(% style="width:306px" %)Copy / Paste Frame|(% style="width:758px" %)Copy and paste a frame
197 +|(% style="width:257px" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-settings.jpg]]|(% style="width:306px" %)Operations / Settings|(% style="width:758px" %)Useful features include: Toggle pause before frame; Remove gaps between frames; Reverse frames
198 +|(% style="width:257px" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-lock.jpg]]|(% style="width:306px" %)Lock |(% style="width:758px" %)Timeline locking
199 +|(% style="width:257px" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-loop.jpg]]|(% style="width:306px" %)Repeat / Loop Pattern|(% style="width:758px" %)Play once or loop; Set the playback speed using the up and down arrows.
200 +|(% style="width:257px" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-play.jpg]]|(% style="width:306px" %)Sequence Playback|(% style="width:758px" %)Restart sequence, play or stop
201 +|(% style="width:257px" %)[[image:lss-flowarm-inspector.png]]|(% style="width:306px" %)Frame Inspector|(% style="width:758px" %)Allows to modify the values sent in a particular frame manually.
215 215  
216 -=== Sequences ===
203 +**Sequences**
217 217  
218 -The sequencer allows you to make your robot move over time by transitioning from one position to another. Each transition is called a "frame" and a sequence of frames is called a "sequence". You can create and save as many sequences as you like. Sequences can be played back manually or using the keyboard inputs mentioned below.
205 +The sequencer allows you to make your robot move over time by transitioning from one position to another. Each transition we call a frame and a sequence of frames we call a sequence. You can create as many sequences as you like. You can play sequences back manually or using the keyboard inputs mentioned below. This section describes the sequence management functions of the Sequencer.
219 219  
220 -=== Sequence List ===
207 +**Sequence List**
221 221  
222 222  [[image:lss-flowarm-pattern-list.jpg]]
223 223  
224 -If you click on the drop-down arrow on the right-hand you'll see a list of available sequences that have been created. Selecting one opens that sequence. You can also scroll through the list one-by-one using the up and down arrow buttons. Clicking on the name of a sequence to change it by typing in the box then pressing the Enter / Return key or clicking away.
211 +The sequence list is the first control on the sequencer. If you click on the arrow on the right-hand edge you'll see a list of the sequences that have been created and by selecting one you can move to that sequence. You can also scroll through the list one-by-one using the up and down arrow buttons. Clicking on the name of a sequence will allow you to change this. Simply type in the box then press the Return key or click away.
225 225  
226 226  == Sequence Management ==
227 227  
228 228  [[image:lss-flowarm-patterns.jpg]]
229 229  
230 -=== Add a Sequence ===
217 +**Add a Sequence**
231 231  
232 -To add a sequence click the plus (+) button. A new sequence will appear in the list and its name will open for editing.
219 +To add a sequence click the add button. A new sequence will appear in the list and its name will open for editing.
233 233  
234 -=== Remove a Sequence ===
221 +**Remove a Sequence**
235 235  
236 -Click the remove sequence button (-) to delete the currently selected sequence from the list. This action is irreversible so you will be asked for confirmation.
223 +Click the remove sequence button to delete the currently selected sequence from the list. This action is irreversible so you will be asked for confirmation.
237 237  
238 -=== Duplicate a Sequence ===
225 +**Duplicate a Sequence**
239 239  
240 -If you want to make a new sequence based on an existing one then you can duplicate it using the icon with superimposed squares.
227 +If you want to make a new sequence based on an existing one then you can duplicate it.
241 241  
242 -=== Saving Sequences ===
229 +**Saving Sequences**
243 243  
244 244  IMPORTANT: If you want to keep any sequences you create then you must export them otherwise they will be lost when you return to the project browser. 
245 -To save a sequence click the export button (Save icon). You can choose whether to export all sequences or just the one currently selected. Sequences are saved to files so you'll need to pick a filename and folder to save to. If a sequence uses sub-sequences these will be saved even if you choose only to save the selected sequence.
232 +To do this click the export button. You can choose whether to export all your sequences or just the currently selected one. Sequences are saved to files so you'll need to pick a filename and folder to save to. If a sequence uses sub sequences these will be saved even if you choose only to save the selected sequence.
246 246  
247 -=== Loading Sequences ===
234 +**Loading Sequences**
248 248  
249 -If you have saved sequences that you want to restore then click the Import button (open folder icon). You will be asked to choose a previously saved sequence file. The sequences in the file will be added to the list. They do not replace the sequence list. Also it doesn't matter how many sequences the file contains, all of them will be imported.
236 +If you have saved sequences that you want to restore then click the Import button. You will be asked to choose a previously saved sequence file.
237 +The sequences in the file will be added to the list. They do not replace the sequence list. Also it doesn't
238 +matter how many sequences the file contains, all of them will be imported.
250 250  
251 -=== Clear All Sequences ===
240 +**Clear All Sequences**
252 252  
253 -If you want to start from scratch you can clear all the sequences from the list using the clear all button (multiple squares and X).
242 +If you want to start from scratch you can clear all the sequences from the list using the clear all button.
254 254  
255 -== Frames ==
244 +== **Frames** ==
256 256  
257 -[[image:lss-flowarm-frame.jpg]]
246 +**[[image:lss-flowarm-frame.jpg]]**
258 258  
259 -Knowing how to manage sequences will now allow you to create one. As indicated earlier a sequence is made up of frames. A frame represents a transition between robot states over time. In addition to frames, you can also add other sequences to a sequence. This allows quite complex series of movements to be built up very quickly and easily.
248 +We now know how to manage sequences now lets see how you build one. As we said earlier a sequence is made up of frames. A frame represents a transition between robot states over time.
249 +In addition to frames, you can also add other sequences to a sequence. This allows quite complex series of movements to be built up very quickly and easily.
260 260  
261 261  [[image:lss-flowarm-frames.jpg]]
262 262  
263 -=== Adding Frames ===
253 +**Adding Frames**
264 264  
265 -To add a frame click the Add (+) button. A new frame will be added at the end of the sequence. The duration of the frame will be whatever the last frame duration was. The frame will record whatever position the robot is currently set to. You can add a sub sequence to the sequence by clicking the arrow to the right of the Add button. A drop list of the available sequences will appear. Select one and it will be added to the end of the sequence.
255 +To add a frame click the Add button. A new frame will be added at the end of the sequence. The duration of the frame will be whatever the last frame duration was. The frame will record whatever position the robot is currently set to. You can add a sub sequence to the sequence by clicking the arrow to the right of the Add button. A drop list of the available sequences will appear. Select one and it will be added to the end of the sequence.
266 266  
267 -=== Recording to a Frame ===
257 +**Recording to a Frame**
268 268  
269 -When you add a frame it will record the state that the robot is currently in. If you want to change this state first select the frame by clicking on it. Next move the robot to the position you want to record. When you're happy press the record button (circle with red dot). The frame will flash to indicate that it has been updated.
259 +When you add a frame it will record the state that the robot is currently in. If you want to change this state first select the frame by clicking on it. Next move the robot to the position you want to record. When you're happy press the record button. The frame will flash to indicate that it has been updated.
270 270  
271 -=== Deleting Frames ===
261 +**Deleting Frames**
272 272  
273 -To delete a sequence or frame from a sequence, click the Delete button (X).
263 +To delete a sequence or frame from a sequence, click the Delete button.
274 274  
275 -=== Naming Frames ===
265 +**Naming Frames**
276 276  
277 277  To name a frame, simply double-click the top blue part of it. You will then be able to enter a name by typing text directly. Save the new name by pressing the [Enter] key once donce. Warning: please note that when double-clicking a frame to name it, it will play the frame which may move your robotic arm suddenly. You may want to activate the STOP button first to prevent movement when naming frames.
278 278  
279 -=== Timeline Locking ===
269 +**Timeline Locking**
280 280  
281 -[[image:lss-flowarm-lock.jpg||height="20" width="21"]]
271 +[[image:lss-flowarm-lock.jpg]]
282 282  
283 283  The timeline is locked by default. This means that frames will automatically run from one to the next – you cannot create space in between. Moving a frame past another one will move it along the order in the timeline. If the timeline is unlocked then you can move frames independently of each other and also create gaps of time in between.
284 284  
285 -=== Moving and Resizing ===
275 +**Moving and Resizing**
286 286  
287 287  To move a frame on the timeline, simply click on it and drag it to the time you want it to start. The start time will be displayed as you drag. How frames move relative to each other is determined by whether the timeline is locked (see previous section). To resize a frame grab the right-hand edge and drag it. When moving or resizing the mouse snaps to the nearest unit on the timeline. If you hold SHIFT while moving or resizing no snap will be applied. When the timeline is unlocked then if you hold CTRL while dragging or resizing a frame all frames to
288 288  the right of the selected frame will be moved so that the time interval between the selected frame and the next one is maintained.
289 289  
290 -=== Auto Record ===
280 +**Auto Record**
291 291  
292 292  If you want changes you make to be automatically recorded you can lock the record button in place by double-clicking on it. Now whenever you change the robot position the currently elected frame will be updated. The record button will light up to show that auto record is on. To switch auto record off, double-click on the record button again.
293 293  
294 -=== Copy and Paste ===
284 +**Copy and Paste**
295 295  
296 296  [[image:lss-flowarm-copy-paste.jpg]]
297 297  
... ... @@ -298,17 +298,17 @@
298 298  Sometimes you might want to copy the robot state from one frame to another. To do this we have copy and paste. To copy the data from a frame, select it then click the Copy button.
299 299  To duplicate the data on another frame, select the target frame and click the Paste button.
300 300  
301 -=== Pause Before Frame ===
291 +**Pause Before Frame**
302 302  
303 303  You can insert a pause before a frame commences. This is useful if you want the sequencer to stop and wait for some external event before continuing. First select the frame then click the Operations button and select Toggle Pause Before Frame. A red line will show at the start of the frame to show the pause. To remove the pause select the frame again and select Toggle Pause Before Frame after clicking on the Operations button.
304 304  
305 -=== Remove Gaps Between Frames ===
295 +**Remove Gaps Between Frames**
306 306  
307 307  [[image:lss-flowarm-settings.jpg]]
308 308  
309 309  If the timeline is unlocked then you can instantly remove all the gaps between frames and push them up against each other by clicking the Operations button and choosing Remove Gaps Between Frames from the menu.
310 310  
311 -=== Frame Inspector ===
301 +**Frame Inspector**
312 312  
313 313  [[image:lss-flowarm-inspector-frame.png]]
314 314  
... ... @@ -316,13 +316,13 @@
316 316  
317 317  == Sequencer ==
318 318  
319 -=== Reverse Frames ===
309 +**Reverse Frames**
320 320  
321 321  [[image:lss-flowarm-settings.jpg]]
322 322  
323 323  It's useful to be able to reverse the order of frames in a sequence. To do this click the Operations button and choose Reverse Frames.
324 324  
325 -=== Sequence Playback ===
315 +**Sequence Playback**
326 326  
327 327  [[image:lss-flowarm-play.jpg]]
328 328  
... ... @@ -330,7 +330,7 @@
330 330  
331 331  [[image:lss-sequencer-handle.jpg||height="70" width="241"]]
332 332  
333 -=== Assign an input to a sequence ===
323 +**Assign an input to a sequence**
334 334  
335 335  [[image:lss-flowarm-association.jpg]]
336 336  
... ... @@ -337,11 +337,11 @@
337 337  You can assign an input to a sequence by choosing one in the drop-down list left of the sequence name. By default a sequence does not have a input associated with it. When you click on that box, you will be presented with a list of possible inputs. A sequence can only have one input associated with it. Similarly, an input can only be associated with one sequence at a time. If you choose an input in the list that is already associated, it will be removed from its previous sequence and assigned to the current one. By clicking on the sequence list, you will see which input is associated to each sequence to the right of their name:
338 338  If a sequence is already playing when its associated input is triggered, it will ignore that input and continue playing as normal. If an input that is associated is triggered when a different sequence is playing, it will be stopped and the
339 339  
340 -=== Decision Frame ===
330 +**Decision Frame**
341 341  
342 -[[image:lss-flowarm-decision-frame.jpg]]
332 +**[[image:lss-flowarm-decision-frame.jpg]]**
343 343  
344 -At the end of every sequence there is a permanent frame called the "decision frame" (it is orange for easy identification). Click on the top part (orange) to change the last action of the sequence. There are 3 options:
334 +At the end of every sequence there is a permanent frame called the decision frame (it is orange for easy identification). Click on the top part (orange) to change the last action of the sequence. There are 3 options:
345 345  
346 346  * STOP: once the sequence is completed, nothing else will happen
347 347  * LOOP: once the sequence is completed, it will repeat a set amount of time
... ... @@ -349,43 +349,8 @@
349 349  
350 350  If another sequence is associated with that input, it will then play Playback Control. You can change the speed of playback by changing the speed multiplier. Click the up and down arrows to alter this. Normally a sequence plays to the end then stops. However, sometimes you want a sequence to repeat. You can toggle this by clicking the Loop button.
351 351  
352 -= Notifications =
353 -
354 -(% style="width:1037px" %)
355 -|(% style="text-align:center; width:450px" %)**Displayed Error**|(% style="text-align:center; width:100px" %)**LED Status**|(% style="text-align:center" %)**Information**
356 -|{{lightbox image="lss-flowarm-notification-limp.png"/}}|(% colspan="1" rowspan="2" style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle" %)(((
357 -[[image:LSS-UserColor.png||alt="LSS-Error-SafeMode.gif"]]
358 -
359 -User Defined
360 -)))|User clicked on the "LIMP" button or FlowArm noticed an error and put the arm "LIMP" by itself.
361 -|{{lightbox image="lss-flowarm-notification-firmware.png"/}}|(((
362 -Old firmware version which is not compatible (SERVO 1 in this example).
363 -
364 -* Use the LSS-Config software to update the servo's firmware
365 -)))
366 -|{{lightbox image="lss-flowarm-notification-current.png"/}}|(% colspan="1" rowspan="2" style="text-align:center; vertical-align:middle" %)(((
367 -[[image:LSS-Error-SafeMode.gif]]
368 -
369 -Red Flashing
370 -)))|(((
371 -Over-current error on the specified servo (SERVO 4 in this example)
372 -
373 -* Verify that noting is in the way of the servo that can block it's movement.
374 -* Try to "RELEASE SERVOS" which will "RESET" the servo(s) in error.
375 -)))
376 -|{{lightbox image="lss-flowarm-notification-temperature.png"/}}|(((
377 -Over-temperature error on the specified servo (SERVO 5 in this example).
378 -
379 -* Let it cool down for a minute.
380 -* Try to "RELEASE SERVOS" which will "RESET" the servo(s) in error.
381 -)))
382 -
383 383  = Troubleshooting =
384 384  
385 385  If you encounter any bugs or issues when installing or using the LSS FlowArm application, please submit a new post on the Lynxmotion community sub-forum here: [[https:~~/~~/www.robotshop.com/community/forum/c/lynxmotion/electronics-software>>url:https://www.robotshop.com/community/forum/c/lynxmotion/electronics-software]]
386 386  
387 -= FlowBotics File =
388 -
389 -FlowBotics 3.0.60
390 -
391 -
346 +{Work in progress}
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