Remote Controlled Arduino Car

 

I always liked to go to camps, etc where there are a lot of my friends, I always liked having a lot of friends, and one day as I was looking up youtube for remote control cars, and how they were made, I figured out that I could make one for myself from the components I had,

Please vote for this in the Micro-controller Contest --->>>(Thanks in advance)
HERE

All I needed for this make was :

• Arduino(20$)
   
• Breadboard(3$)
   
• Some Capacitors(3$)
   
• Resistors 1K,10K(2$)
   
• 2 Motors(10$)
   
• 1 Servo(3$)
   
• 1 Distance sensor (Optional)(10$)
   
• 1 Sound sensor (Optional)(5$)
   
• 1 Line tracking sensor (Optional)(6$)
   
• LEDs(1$)
   
• Jumper Cables(2$)
   
• Voltage Regulators (1 for the servo)(2$)
   
• Transistors((NPN)For the Motors)(2$)
   
• 4 pcs 9 V batteries(8$)
   
• Blue-tooth Transceiver(13$)

So the total cost for the beginners version is : 69$ with the arduino
And the total cost for the pro version is(Like the one I made with all the optional stuff) : 90$ with the arduino

Here is a video of the whole project, this is the video of the 1st mode of the project, it shows the robot communicating with the computer via USB cable and wirelessly and it shows how the shooter works.

In the code that I will provide there will be only the basic code, which is without the optional parts, if you want the code for any of the other parts, request me in the comments section and Iwill give you the code for that particular part,
In my final version, where the code is quite long, there are 4 modes

1st mode

The robot connects to the computer wirelessly via blue-tooth, and it listens to all the commands, including
(Turn Left, Turn Right, Forward, Target turn Left, Target turn Right, Shoot and more...)
The target stuff is basically, that there is a servo with an LED mounted on it, which acts as a turret as you can see in my other instructable (Star-Wars X-Wing 2)

2nd mode

This is the mode where I use a distance sensor
The distance sensor constantly give in values of how far the things in front are, and if something is close by, then the robot will stop and turn away, or go reverse.
You might like to mount the distance sensor on top of a servo, because that would give you a much wider range.

3rd mode

This is where the sound sensor takes action, When any sound above a certain level is detected as specified in the code, or if a stored tune is herd, then the robot will move accordingly to get away from the sound as much as possible, Its really easy to reverse this so that the robot comes towards you.

4th mode

This one is the line tracking mode, where the robot follows lines, I used a pre-made sensor, but you can find instructions on how to make your own, if you look up Google. In this mode there are another 2 mini modes, one is to follow a line, and the other is to stay inside a line.
One good tip is to make sure that the sensor is placed as close to the ground as possible.

You must be wondering how I switched the modes, well you could do that by using the computer, but I used a 5 way switch for the four modes and one is for off, and for the fourth mode, to switch between the mini modes, I just used a normal switch.
But after all this I realized it was very messy and would be a lot easier and better, if you changed mode from the computer, so I did that later.

There was a huge use of power as I used 4 nine volt batteries, as I had to use two for the two motors, one for the servo and one for the arduino, the servo needed a lot more current than the arduino can provide, so I had to use another power device and add a voltage regulator to it, as the servo could only handle 5V and I thought that adding a lot of 1.5V batteries increases the weight a lot, so I just used my trusty 9 V battery and the voltage regulator.
The motors had to be powered by a separate power supply because, if I connected the motors to the arduino then, there would not be enough power to connect the 3 sensors and the blue-tooth transceiver, and the motors would not go fast if I connected them to the arduino, so I used a transistor for each motor and connected it to the arduino.

And then the last step for me was to make a base for this to make it look cool, so I made a dome sort of thing to cover the entire robot and it looks really cool, you can make any kind of dome you like.

Here is the main code for this robot, but if you want the code for the optional parts then just ask in the comments section :

#include Servo.h

int LedPin1 = 12;
int LedPin = 13;
int MotorPin1 = 9;
int MotorPin2 = 10;
int servoPin = 6;

Servo VishalServo;

void setup()
{
digitalWrite(LedPin, HIGH);
Serial.begin(9600);
Serial.println(Robotic tank);
pinMode(LedPin, OUTPUT);
pinMode(LedPin1, OUTPUT);
pinMode(MotorPin1, OUTPUT);
pinMode(MotorPin2, OUTPUT);
VishalServo.attach(servoPin);
VishalServo.writeMicroseconds(1500);
Serial.println(Wait for 1 second);
delay(1000);
Serial.println(You can now give commands);
}

void loop()
{
while (Serial.available() == 0);
int val = Serial.read() - '0';

int i = VishalServo.read();

if (val == 2)
{
Serial.println(Robot is On);
digitalWrite(MotorPin1, HIGH);
digitalWrite(MotorPin2, HIGH);
delay (500);
digitalWrite(MotorPin1, LOW);
digitalWrite(MotorPin2, LOW);
delay(5);
}

if (val == 1)
{
Serial.println(Robot is turning left);
digitalWrite(MotorPin2, HIGH);
delay(500);
digitalWrite(MotorPin2, LOW);
delay(5);
}

if (val == 3)
{
Serial.println(Robot is turning right);
digitalWrite(MotorPin1, HIGH);
delay(500);
digitalWrite(MotorPin1, LOW);
delay(5);
}

if (val == 9)
{
Serial.println(Turning right);
VishalServo.write(i+5);
delay(5);
}

if (val == 7)
{
Serial.println(Turning left);

if (i = 165)
{
delay(5);
}

if(i = 165)
{
VishalServo.write(i-5);
delay(5);
}
}

if (val == 5)
{
Serial.println(Shoot);
digitalWrite(LedPin1, HIGH);
delay(50);
digitalWrite(LedPin1, LOW);
delay(5);
}

if (val == 8)
{
Serial.println(Centering);
VishalServo.writeMicroseconds(1500);
delay(5);
}

else
{
delay(5);
}

}

This is the code for only the first method as I consider this as the basic / main part of this robot.
If you want the led to stay longer just change the delay between LED pin1 HIGH and LED pin 1 LOW.(Or you might just ask me to do that if you think its too hard or if you are a beginner.

And make sure that the servo is connected to a PWM enabled pin, I used pin 6(PWM means Pulse Width Modulation)

Here is the code you need to use in processing(Its a program that programs the computer)(You can download it for free from the internet, just type in processing and the first link is the one)This code is used to post updates to twitter saying what your robot is doing when you give it commands :

/*************
* based on: http://processing.org/reference/libraries/serial/serialEvent_.html
*************/

import processing.serial.*;

Serial myPort; // The serial port
PFont myFont; // The display font
String inString; // Input string from serial port
int lf = 10; // ASCII linefeed

Twitter twitter; // Twitter

//Going to get oAuth working instead of this, but this will do for now
String username = "YOUR-TWITTER-USERNAME"; // you Twitter Username Here
String password = "YOUR-TWITTER-PASSWORD"; // your Twitter Password Here

void setup() {
size(400,200);
twitter = new Twitter(username,password);
myFont = loadFont("AppleGothic-48.vlw");
textFont(myFont, 18);
println(Serial.list());
myPort = new Serial(this, Serial.list()[0], 9600);
myPort.bufferUntil(lf); //wiat for line feed to specify end of serial buffer
}

void draw() {
background(100);
text("color selected: " + inString, 10,50);
}

void serialEvent(Serial p) {
inString = p.readString();//read serial string
//For some reason this only wanted to work in a try catch
try
{
Status status1 = twitter.updateStatus("Arduino's favorite color is "+inString);//update twitter status
}
catch( TwitterException e) {
println(e.getStatusCode());
}
}

Change username and password with your twitter username and password, I tried it and it works perfectly.
If you want to post updates to an application on twitter go and have a look at my other instructable :
http://www.instructables.com/id/Touch-Me-NotWithout-Ethernet-Sheild/

This is the code for using the ultrasonic range finder instead of a distance sensor, like I did  : )

int blinkLed=13; // Where the led will blink
int sensorPin=0; // Analog Pin In
int sum=0; // Variable to calculate SUM
int avgrange=50; // Quantity of values to average
int sensorValue; // Value for te average
int i,media,d; // Variables
float cm,inch; // Converted to cm


void setup()
{
Serial.begin(9600); // To check what is being read on the Serial Port
}

void loop() {

d=analogRead(sensorPin); // Read the analog value
digitalWrite(blinkLed,HIGH); // Turn on LED
delay(d); // Delay changes with the analogread
digitalWrite(13,LOW); // Turn off LED
delay(d); // Another delay

cm = (d / 2) * 2.4; // Convert the value to centimeters
inch = d/2; // Value in inches

Serial.println(cm); //Print average of all measured values

// This is the code if you want to make an average of the read values

/*

for(i = 0; i < avgrange ; i++) {
sum+=analogRead(sensorPin);
delay(10);
}

media = sum/avgrange;
Serial.println(media); //Print average of all measured values

sum=0;
media=0;

*/

}


If you want the schematic for this project, or if you want specific code for different things or if you need help related to this project, then just leave a comment in the comments section, or if you want more details on how to connect any of the below, please ask.

And if you want this to run with commands from remote, all you need to do is use this infrared remote and you can control the whole robot wirelessly with a remote, or if you want it to be more like a remote control car, then you can add an actual remote control car controller or any game-pad for pc, links below...

Infrared Remote :
http://cgi.ebay.com/Arduino-IR-Remote-Control-0038B-Module-DIY-Kit-/280645829263?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4157cb828f

RC remote :
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000AW9RE/ref=asc_df_B0000AW9RE1583100?smid=A3O0M985ZCU7ZK&tag=pgmp-440-95-20&linkCode=asn&creative=395105&creativeASIN=B0000AW9RE

Steering Wheel :
http://www.amazon.com/Genius-Twin-Vibration-F1-Wheel/dp/B000ODVKUC/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1308547391&sr=1-1

I made my own dome for this project which fits on top of all the mess and makes the RC Car look like an RC car, but I didn't add any pictures of the dome as I would like you people to make your own personalized domes, and not just copy me...


And of course you can expand upon this project, and if you make something cool share a picture of it by adding a picture while posting a comment, as I would like to see how this instructable has inspired you people to come up with something great.

Links :

Arduino : http://cgi.ebay.com/Arduino-UNO-ATMEGA328P-ATMEGA8U2-FREE-USB-Cable-/320707209315?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4aaba3a863

LEDs :http://cgi.ebay.com/10-x-3mm-Bright-UV-Purple-5000-mcd-LED-Bulb-Light-/160587866645?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item2563c86215

Motors :http://cgi.ebay.com/Low-Cost-Gear-Motor-2-Pieces-DC-robot-chassis-/280660704676?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4158ae7da4

Servo :http://cgi.ebay.com/Micro-9g-Servo-RC-Futaba-walkera-Hitec-HS-55-TREX-450-/320711895465?pt=Radio_Control_Parts_Accessories&hash=item4aabeb29a9

Where to download the Arduino IDE : http://arduino.cc/en/Main/Software
Where to download Processing : http://processing.org/download/

I really didn't like the interface of the Arduino as you had to click enter after entering each and every command, so I used putty

Where to download Putty : http://www.chiark.greenend.org.uk/~sgtatham/putty/download.html

Sorry about some blurry pictures... :(

Comments

[arduinoguy]

Added to comment I made below: Also do you have a schematic I could see? Thanks

[arduinoguy]

I am going to be building something very similar to this one you made. So am I correct that the first code you listed is the one for the computer controlled version of it? I am not planning to use the optional things like the distance sensor. Also for my arduino, what Bluetooth transceiver should I use? Do you have an updated link to where I could find one? I am using the arduino uno R3. Thanks a lot!

[mddulek]

I am in the middle of building this for a school project, and am STUCK! We're using all the correct materials listed except for:
1) we haven't put in Voltage Regulators yet as we don't know what kind to get

2) what kinds of capacitors to use

3)But the main issue is that our servo is actually built into our motor, so that's the only position where our model is different thus far. We're trying to test the motor out (we're as far as plugging in the resistors and transistors) and we used the EXACT code shown here on the site (for MODE #1)...but since our servo is built into the motor, is there something we should change in the code?

Also, for the LED, are we supposed to have code to make it the LED flash on and off? And if so, could you be just a bit more specific with how it would through the use of the code?

Please help as this is a project due by MARCH 13/14 2012 and we could really use some guidance, we've hit a wall and would love to continue to what you have for your result.
Thank you

[vishalapr]

You can get variable voltage regulators, so that the middle pin can be attached to the voltage required, in this case hook it up to the 5V line on the arduino as you want to regulate the 9V battery to a 5V suitable for the project.

The capacitors depend on what kinds of motors you are using, so if you give me the datasheet of your motor or where you bought it, then I can guide you with the capacitors, but remember, the diodes and capacitors are only needed to remove the noise and spikes from the motors...

I don't understand what you mean the servo is built into the motor, do you mean the same motor works as both a servo and a normal motor, or is it just a normal motor with a servo attached on top it with glue?

If you are talking about the LED that is on the servo, then yes you should have it flash but if you want it to be more of a pulsar bean kind of weapon, then you can flash it and then fade it off, but its a little more complex and you need to use a PWM pin for it.
This part of the code is for the LED on top of the servo:
if (val == 5)
{Serial.println(Shoot); It pritns shoot onto the screen
digitalWrite(LedPin1, HIGH); I turns the LED on
delay(50); for 50 milliseconds
digitalWrite(LedPin1, LOW); turns the LED off
delay(5);} delays 5 milliseconds, it is always a good idea to use this type of delays so that everything is smooth and does not interfere with other commands..

[bebo82]

Really nice project
I update your code (I added to new outputs pin-11, pin-8 and a new input key-4)to use a RC tank; I remove all the factory circuit and Installed an H-bridge to move forward and backwards.
I’m new writing code or using arduinos, so I need some advise how to send the data to the tank without having to press enter all the time. I’m using the arduino serial port, for example if I press the 2 to move forward, 3 to turn to the right and 5 to shoot the LED then I have to press enter.

[vishalapr]

Nice! This was just suposed to be a prototype...but then I decided not to make a tank but to make a mini robot dog...so I am working on it now :)

Download "putty.exe"
from online, and then you can open it, select serial port and then you can just type in commands without enter :) Its like the arduino serial screen but without pressing enter

[kai_311]

That is so awesome... Would you mind sharing your schematic and the codes for making it work wireless. Thanks! 5 stars.

[vishalapr]

The bluetooth transceiver is just like a replacement to the USB wire, since it has a TX, RX, 5V and a Gnd so once you connect them, its basically like a wireless USB cord!

You do not have to change the code at all!
You just need to set putty to the "COM PORT" that the bluetooth transceiver is connected to!

[vishalapr]

It hasa been a long time since I made the wireless bluetooth transceiver, but now I don't quite remember what the schematics are, but you caan buy a premade one at this website for 12$ or something like that...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Serial-Bluetooth-RF-Transceiver-Module-RS232-backplane-/250893732734?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3a6a6e8b7e

I made mine for less than 5$ but I really don't remember the schematic, I will try to remember it and as soon as I remember I will post a schematic!
But the above is 99% similar to the one I soldered together so...it will work just fine!

[NE patsrock]

thats soo kool u should add like a cockpit to put like a lego dude in there

[vishalapr]

Thats actually quite a good idea!

[NE patsrock]

haha ya u really should!!!

[vishalapr]

Probably will...!

[NE patsrock]

if u do send me some pics in my inbox!!!

[vishalapr]

Ok If I do then I will probably post pictures as a reply to this comment!

[NE patsrock]

OK:):):):P

[vishalapr]

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[watson9194]

very nicely done!

[vishalapr]

Thanks!

[jupiterjim]

Great Instructable! Very complex but yet, very detailed! I hope you win in the contest! Where do I vote for you? Thanks! -- Jupiter Jim

[vishalapr]

Glad you understood the project!
But I'm not a finalist in the contest so....
I guess I'll just have to try harder next time!

[jupiterjim]

Sorry to hear that you're not a finalist! You should be!!! Good luck in all future contests!

[vishalapr]

Thanks

[Verynicemice]

WOW. Like the fact that u attached a hot-wheels car to the back LOL

*Gives cookie*

[vishalapr]

Lol thanks and Glad you liked it!

[wojonnala]

The best!!!!!!!!!!!U are amazing dude!

[sunshiine]

Wow! Big 5 stars! You have so many ratings that is awesome!

[vishalapr]

Thanks a lot! Glad you liked it!

[sooraj619]

awesome job,thumbs up man

[vishalapr]

Thanks a lot!Gladdly gald you liked it!

[tassywashere]

Really Cool project you should win the micro controller Project.

[vishalapr]

Thanks for the support!I too wish I win any something in The microcontroller contest as well!

[Electronics Man]

This is truly awsome! :)

[vishalapr]

Thanks a lot!I'm glad you like it!Could you please vote for it if u liked it!

[Electronics Man]

I voted for it! And have you considered switching out the LED gun for something like a air soft gun? Now that would be awesome!

[vishalapr]

Thats a really cool idea,I'll start gathering the materials right now!

[pandyaketan]

gr8!!

***** stars!!

reg
ketan
--------------------------------------------------------
"May the good belong to all the people in the world.
May the rulers go by the path of justice.
May the best of men and their source always prove to be a blessing.
May all the world rejoice in happiness.
May rain come in time and plentifulness be on Earth.
May this world be free from suffering and the noble ones be free from fears"
---- Vedic blessing

[vishalapr]

Thanks for the 5* rating!
Glad you liked it!

[vishalapr]

This is amazing!I got about 50 ratings!!!

[yopmail315]

I know that's only bcoz this is such an amazing project!