Xbox 360 ROBOTIC ARM [ ARDUINO ] : AXIOM ARM

-

Step 1: Purpose

The purpose of AXIOM ARM was to create a stand alone robotic arm that was controlled wirelessly.

Current Research :

Study biological systems to incorporate mechanisms that add mechanical advantage and reduce power consumption.

*** The controls are intentionally quick since the current system studies snake movements while balancing a large moment - I.e. if you want smooth controls, use 5 servos not 6***

This was accomplished using a Xbox 360 Controller although any device that has a usb adapter will work.

Disclosure :

This instructable was created in the summer of 2014 - further , independent research occurred during the Fall of 2014 in accordance with the Makecourse at USF.

The following discusses the parts you will need, how to wire everything, every version of the Arduino CODES ( including final Code), and an instruction manual.

Step 2: Parts

PART LIST

Although the MAKE class used this arduino kit (which took about 3 weeks to arrive), the following are the core parts you need to build this in the cheapest manner.

See Conclusion --> Instruction Manuel for Core Part List Excel + estimated lowest lost

SOFTWARE :

• Autodesk Inventor 2014 : http://www.autodesk.com/education/student-software

Create student account to get 3 yrs free

• Arduino Integrated Development Environment (IDE): http://www.autodesk.com/education/student-software
• USB Host Shield Library : https://github.com/felis/USB_Host_Shield_2.0

Final Code Uses XBOXRECV [wireless]

Optional Software :

For Circuit Schematics

• Fritzing : http://fritzing.org : for circuit drawing [ libraries exist to get usb host shield into fritzing, such as sparkfun library https://github.com/sparkfun/Fritzing_Parts]

MECHANICAL :

• Breadboard - This is the breadboard used in the picture, however, this smaller breadboard makes things fit better [plus the power rails on both sides snap off which gives you freedom].

• Polycase - Here is the one we had to use for the MAKE course; there you can find the 3D Inventor part file
• 3D Printed Parts : Varies
  • Claws : I designed the claws but there are plenty of good ones online. If you don't feel like 3D printing the claws, order some such as these or these *NOTE : I cannot promise the servos you order will fit standard servos, so do some research*
  • Servo Brackets : See Attached Files below or Search for dimensions standard servo bracket to make your own -
    • ***If 3D printing brackets, make holes SMALLER than usual ( 1mm or so) and go back with a drill, otherwise your brackets will fail near the holes.
    • ***Do Not have to use "3Rd Bracket" {i.e. the custom servo bracket that looks like a box with a bunch of holes in it - can use other brackets}
• Standard Servo Brackets :

You have a lot of options :

Buy this excellent servo bracket kit from amazon which has enough brackets for later projects or if you want to experiment with other geometries for the robotic arm * Includes All the bolts, nuts you need [M3, 0.5]*

You could buy the parts individually from amazon ; however, I recommend only buying servo brackets that have a textured look (like these ones) as I found that there are some "standard" brackets that don't allow the bolts to go in.

3D print : Make bolt holes smaller, will have to drill + make bracket thicker. May be easier to buy from amazon

• Servo Bolts, Hex Nuts :

Unfortunately; if you don't buy the Servo Bracket kit from amazon, you are going to have to find servo bolts and nuts.

These Bolts and Nuts may work, but I cannot promise.

Also, this Bolt selectionon amazon is useful.

Ball Bearings : Buy Here: *buy only if you plan on 3D printing the swivel parts.

NOTE : I recommend using rubber -bands to counteract the weight of the arm, else you will be drawing a lot of current and will need to charge more frequently  - you may also risk damaging the servo. {Could also use other brackets, lever arms, strings, ect.}

ELECTRICAL :

• Wires : Buy Here
• Toggle Switch w/ Blue Light ( X1): Buy Here

• Arduino UNO R3 ( X1): Buy Here
• USB Shield (X1) : Buy Here
• Standard Servos ( X6) : like These

Base joint : Used This (better quality then HD Power listed below)

Spin Claw : Used This

Other 4 joints : Used HD 1501MG Metal Gear

NOTE : Could  Buy 6 HD 1501MG Metal Gear if you don't feel like buying different types

• Venom NiMH Battery 7.2V , 3000 mAh : Buy Here
• Battery Charger : Buy Here
• Alligator Clips :
  *Note : you will have a pair that come with the battery, but you will have to cut the wires that have the adapter on them, strip them, wrap a few breadboard wires and possibly solder. Electrical tape will also be needed. Or you could buy some from here
• Xbox 360 Controller + Adapter ( For PC ) : Any Xbox 360 Controller should work, like This one : Buy Adapter Here

To Reduce the Cost Even Further :

• Use micro servos
• 3D print custom micro servo brackets
• ***Change the geometry to use less brackets -buy brackets individually

Projected lowest cost could be around $140 [ using micro servos ]

NOTE : I do not own the rights of the part "Servo Futaba S30031" or " PolyCase Edit"

Autodesk Inventor 2014 Parts :

Step 3: Conclusion

This project was very involved and I would like to thank the following people :

Barrett Anderies

Anthony Rose

Additional References :

Advanced Visualization Center(AVC), Research Computing(RC) at University of South Florida

Design For X - Lab : http://www.eng.usf.edu/dfx/

***Please See the Following Instruction Manual of AXIOM ARM for proper acknowledgement, functionality, and lowest projected cost part list***

If you have any questions:

LinkedIN : http://www.linkedin.com/in/sergeidines
My Website : http://sergeidines.weebly.com/

Email : [e-mail]

Step 4: Renderings