. Using ultrasonic sensors and computer vision, WALL-B identifies obstacles and clears them with a robotic arm. The system is powered by an Arduino/Raspberry Pi, with DC motors for mobility and servo motors for object handling. The project integrates AI for smarter decision-making and efficient navigation. Our goal is to develop a functional prototype that showcases automation in waste management and object sorting. Stay tuned for updates on our progress!
Details
Components
1×
Arduino Uno
Microcontroller board to control motors, sensors, and servos
1×
USB Cable (Type B)
For uploading code to the Arduino
2×
DC Motors
For driving the robot forward/backward
1×
L298N Motor Driver Module
To control the direction and speed of DC motors
2×
Rubber Tank Tracks
For better terrain adaptability
After days of cutting, assembling, wiring, and debugging, Day 7 marked a huge milestone:
We started the session by attaching the final wooden panels and ensuring all components—motors, wiring, and electronics—were securely mounted inside the chassis. The track system was finalized and aligned with the drivetrain. Once complete, WALL-B stood fully assembled and ready for testing, as you can see in the photos.
Today, we focused on assembling the drive system and wiring the electronics for WALL-B. We began by mounting the wheels and shock absorbers to ensure the robot has a stable and balanced structure. Precision was key, especially while drilling holes and securing the suspension system.
Next, we moved on to the wiring of the motor system. Each motor was connected and tested individually, ensuring smooth operation and responsiveness. Our design also required careful alignment of the gears and motor shafts, which was achieved with slight adjustments and secure mounting.
Once the mechanical structure was in place, we connected the main control board, tested the motor control, and adjusted the wiring for a clean, organized layout. This phase allowed us to verify that all systems were functioning correctly and that the robot was capable of basic movements.
On Day 5, we transitioned from cardboard prototypes to more durable materials.Using a laser cutter, we precisely cut the robot's exterior components from wood, ensuring each piece met our design specifications.This step was crucial for enhancing the structural integrity of WALL-B.
After cutting, we assembled the wooden parts, verifying the alignment and fit of each component.The successful assembly marked a significant milestone, bringing us closer to a fully functional prototype.
Today marks an exciting phase in our WALL-B project, where our team focused on designing and prototyping the exterior of our robot. Utilizing tools like Inkscape for design and preparing for laser cutting, we took significant steps in materializing our conceptual designs into tangible models.
Design Process:
Inkscape Design:
The designs were structured to accommodate all necessary components such as sensors, wheels, and internal circuitry, ensuring each piece fits perfectly with the others.
Material Testing with Cardboard:
Our initial prototyping material was cardboard. This choice was strategic; it’s cost-effective and easy to work with, allowing us to quickly test and modify designs without significant resource drain.
Using the laser cutter, we executed our designs on cardboard, creating various parts such as the body panels and wheel housings. This step was crucial for visualizing the spatial arrangement and mechanical fit.
Assembly Testing:
Post-cutting, the team assembled the cardboard pieces to form a preliminary model of WALL-B. This assembly process was pivotal in identifying any misalignments or design flaws.
Adjustments were made to the digital designs in real-time to correct any issues observed during the assembly.
Next Steps:
Transition to Wood:
Encouraged by the success with cardboard, our next step involves replicating the design using wood. Wood offers greater durability and a more robust framework for WALL-B, which is essential as we move towards more advanced testing and eventual deployment.
We will be revisiting the laser cutter with our revised designs, cutting the wooden pieces for another round of assembly.
Today, we focused on developing a functional prototype for WALL-B, particularly working on the robotic arm. Using an Arduino setup, we successfully implemented basic movement for the arm, testing its responsiveness and control. While the structure is still a rough prototype, this marks a significant step in refining the robot’s mechanics. Additionally, we sketched an initial design plan outlining both the exterior and internal components of WALL-B. Moving forward, we aim to enhance stability and improve the precision of movements.
So today we decided to use servo lotors for the functionality of the arms and we will have two type of movements up and down plus right and left . Therefore we will use two motors on each arm .