Monday, June 20, 2011

REU progress

Exploration of Python

After meeting with Dr. Xie, I started my research by exploring the depths of use python coding in various venues. The main venue I was introduced to was Visual Basic 2010 and I combined this with my previous knowledge of IDLE platforms such as VPython and Pygame. I created graphic, animated,non animated, and interactive (games) programs. After trying out these various Python platforms, although Visual Studio 2010 is easy on the eyes, basic IDLE platforms seem to still be easier to use, this could be biased based on my previous familiarity, but after extensive testing I believe this to be true. My next endeavor will be comparing ease of use of and efficiency of python to other languages and platforms. 

FSM-based testing for robotic programs

In these past two weeks I have met with Dr. Xie. He helped me focus my research in FSM based testing for robotic programs. I am currently developing different programs with the Tekkotsu platform using C++ style programming as well as creating black box testing techniques for each program. These programs are being executed on with the iCreate Robot.