Motioning Robot

Project Goals and Purpose
The primary goal of this project is to create a robot that can follow a straight path in small, user-commanded increments while also offering manual control for more flexible operation. In the straight-path mode, the robot is guided via Bluetooth using the designated iM app associated with the prebuilt core. Each command from the app prompts the robot to move forward or backward over a short distance, pausing automatically before awaiting the next input. This setup introduces the user to precise, controlled movements while maintaining autonomy over short distances. This dual-mode functionality is an ideal way to explore sensor integration, control algorithms, and Bluetooth communication.

Resources and Crafting Process
For this project, I opted for a combination of prebuilt and custom components. To simplify the assembly and focus on programming, I purchased a core module with integrated motor and Bluetooth control, which is compatible with the iM app. This prebuilt core minimized the need for separate Bluetooth programming, allowing me to concentrate on sensor integration and movement control.

Additionally, I sourced components from a compatible Lego tank model to construct the robot’s frame. The Lego-based design provided a sturdy and flexible foundation, making it easier to build and adjust the robot’s structure. With the iM app handling Bluetooth commands, I could streamline the setup and testing processes, ensuring seamless control and integration with minimal additional programming.

Project Timeline
The project is divided into a structured seven-week timeline, covering each essential phase:

Week 1: Research and component selection. I started by researching control algorithms for line-following and Bluetooth operation, selecting the prebuilt core and Lego tank components to simplify assembly and enhance durability.

Week 2: Assembly and initial testing. During this phase, I assembled the Lego-based chassis, attached the core module and motors, and tested the basic movement functionality to confirm all components were connected properly.

Week 3: Straight-path mode programming. I focused on implementing a short-distance, straight-path mode using the iM app. The robot’s movement algorithm was programmed to respond to forward and backward commands from the app, pausing after each movement for precise positioning.

Week 4: Manual control testing. With the iM app’s manual control mode, I verified the robot’s responsiveness to commands like forward, backward, left, and right. This setup provided full control for navigating more complex paths or making adjustments.

Week 5: Dual-mode integration. I combined the short-distance, straight-path mode with the normal manual control to create a seamless dual-mode system, ensuring reliable transitions between both functionalities.

Week 6: Testing and refinement. Comprehensive testing allowed me to refine the straight-path algorithm and enhance the Bluetooth control responsiveness. This phase included testing in different environments to improve stability and accuracy.

Week 7: Documentation and presentation. I created a detailed ePortfolio documenting the project’s progress, including photos, videos, and technical notes, to showcase the robot’s capabilities.

Technical Approach
The technical approach for this project centers on using the iM app’s Bluetooth control capabilities in combination with a prebuilt core module. In straight-path mode, the robot’s movements are controlled incrementally, allowing for precise positioning along a line with each command. The Bluetooth functionality provided by the iM app ensures reliable communication between the smartphone and the robot, making it easy to switch between modes and execute short-distance commands with minimal setup.

In manual control mode, the iM app allows direct directional control, enabling the robot to navigate freely when precision on a line is unnecessary. The dual-mode design demonstrates a balance between autonomy and user control, maximizing the robot’s adaptability and interactivity.

Hands-On Skills and Learning Outcomes
This project provided hands-on experience in integrating prebuilt components with custom elements, enabling me to focus on the control algorithms and Bluetooth functionality rather than app development. By using the iM app, I learned about streamlined wireless communication and how prebuilt resources can be effectively leveraged in complex projects. Working with the Lego chassis also highlighted the benefits of modular assembly in robotic design, enhancing my understanding of structural flexibility.

In conlclusion, this Motioning Robot project demonstrates how dual-mode functionality can be achieved using a combination of prebuilt and custom components, offering an efficient and versatile robotic design. This experience has been invaluable in building my skills in electronics and programming, and I look forward to applying these insights to future projects in robotics and engineering.