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Simulink Support for LEGO MINDSTORMS NXT Robots

Villanova University LEGO Real Time Target (VU-LRT)

Villanova University LEGO Real Time target (VU-LRT) is a teaching and research platform for LEGO MINDSTORMS NXT robots. It can be used to develop autonomous robots without a prior knowledge of embedded system design. VU-LRT provides Simulink blocks for interfacing to standard LEGO MINDSTORMS NXT sensors and actuators that enable you to develop robotic algorithms.

Using the VU-LRT, you can:

  • Teach digital controls or robotics to nonsoftware experts
  • Introduce hands-on, project-based courses to students early in the curriculum
  • Avoid Bluetooth or USB cable range limitations by running the software directly on the LEGO MINDSTORMS NXT
  • Program motors and sensors precisely for coordinated, real-time execution

VU-LRT Update
Dr. Peyton Jones developed VU-LRT, through funding by National Science Foundation (NSF) and MathWorks, to leverage Simulink code generation tools and low-cost hardware platforms for educational purposes. In 2012a, MathWorks added hardware targeting to Simulink, including support for LEGO MINDSTORMS NXT. LEGO MINDSTORMS NXT target support removes the requirement for additional toolboxes while providing a more cost-effective solution for teaching with hardware and software. This functionality is similar to VU-LRT and now professionally supported by MathWorks. As a result, Dr. Peyton Jones will no longer be actively maintaining VU-LRT after R2011b. He will be transitioning his courses to R2012a.


Required
Hardware
MathWorks Products
  • MATLAB (R2010a or later)
  • Simulink
  • Real-Time Workshop
Support Package
  • VU-LRT (Windows platform only)
Third-Party Software

VU-LRT includes an automated installer for downloading free third-party tools that include Cygwin, GNU ARM Compiler, and LEGO MINDSTORMS NXT driver.

Recommended
Hardware
© 1994-2012 The MathWorks, Inc.