Introduction: Universal Arduino Controller

About: I am a mechanical engineering student at Oregon State University.

A few weeks after school got out I built a small Arduino robot. I wanted to move to the next step and I needed a controller. I started looking for a controller that let me choose what kind of signal to use but was unsuccessful. So I made my own. I own a NRF24L01+ module which is what I am going to use to control this robot but there is a place for a Bluetooth piece to attach. I cut space in the model to help make the NRF chip fit better and I may need to make similar changed to make room for Bluetooth modules

Hardware in the controller.

Tools

  • Soldering Iron
  • Wire Cutters
  • Wire Strippers
  • 3D Printer

Here is the programming and how to link with another NRF24L01+ chip. https://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Use-NRF24L...

Step 1: Printing the Case

The case I made is in two different pieces printed with PLA. The top is just a flat piece with lots of holes. I printed the bottom with supports under the USB port slot. Attached is the .stp and .f3d file types for printing.

Step 2: Powering the Board

To power the board I soldered the leads into the 9mm power jack on the arduino. I attached the positively charged lead to the toggle switch.

Step 3: Insert the Arduino and Battery Into the Case

Start with the power switch and battery then move onto the arduino. Once all the components are in test the power to make sure that no wires have disconnected.

Step 4: Attach the Joystick

Align the pins of the arduino and the joystick and drop the joystick down to rest on the lip in the case.

Step 5: Close It Up.

I started by attaching all the buttons and the stick. Then tested the power one last time before closing it up. To close it just add the nut to the toggle switch and slide the switch down to hold the top of the case on.

Invention Challenge 2017

Participated in the
Invention Challenge 2017