Executive Summary
This project involved designing and implementing an Arduino-based smart robot car capable of autonomous obstacle avoidance and remote control operation. The system integrates ultrasonic sensing, infrared sensors, wireless communication, and motor control to enable real-time navigation and decision making. By combining embedded control logic with sensor feedback, the vehicle can detect nearby obstacles and automatically adjust its direction to prevent collisions.
Mission Context
Autonomous mobile systems require the coordination of sensing, control, and actuation to navigate dynamic environments. Small robotic platforms provide an effective framework for studying embedded systems, sensor integration, and decision-based motion control. This project demonstrates how mechatronic subsystems can work together to create an intelligent robotic platform capable of autonomous movement and remote user interaction.
System Architecture
The vehicle was designed around an Arduino Uno microcontroller, which served as the central control unit for the system.
Key components included:
- Ultrasonic sensor (HC-SR04) for obstacle detection and distance measurement
- SG90 servo motor to rotate the ultrasonic sensor and scan the environment
- L298N motor driver to regulate power delivery and directional control for the motors
- TT DC motors to drive the wheels and generate motion
- HC-05 Bluetooth module for wireless user control
- Infrared sensors for line tracking functionality
Technical Analysis
The control program continuously evaluates distance measurements from the ultrasonic sensor. When an obstacle is detected within a specified threshold distance, the system determines an alternate path by scanning surrounding directions using the rotating sensor. The Arduino processes sensor inputs and issues control signals to the motor driver to change vehicle direction. This embedded control loop enables the vehicle to autonomously move forward, stop, or redirect itself based on environmental conditions.
Validation and Performance
The system was assembled and tested through iterative hardware and software debugging. Early testing confirmed that the motor driver and sensors responded correctly to control signals. During troubleshooting, a damaged motor driver channel required the system to be reconfigured from a four-wheel drive design to a two-wheel drive configuration while maintaining functional navigation control. System performance was evaluated based on obstacle detection accuracy, response time, and navigation reliability.
Role and Impact
Team Member
- Embedded system programming using Arduino
- Integration of sensors, motors, and wireless communication modules
- Hardware assembly and circuit wiring for robotic platform
- Debugging and optimization of control logic for autonomous navigation