Arduino enthusiasts looking for a new project this weekend may be interested in this awesome DIY balancing robot, which has been created using parts that cost roughly $80.
Components include two stepper motors for greater movement precision than could be had with normal DC models, and employ an Arduino Pro Mini, along with an MPU-6050 accelerometer/gyroscope for control.
Understanding the Components
The Arduino Pro Mini is a compact and versatile microcontroller board that is perfect for projects where space is limited. It is based on the ATmega328 microcontroller and offers a range of features, including digital and analog input/output pins, a 16 MHz resonator, and a reset button. The MPU-6050 accelerometer/gyroscope is a crucial component for this project as it provides the necessary data to maintain balance. This sensor combines a 3-axis gyroscope and a 3-axis accelerometer, allowing it to measure both rotational and linear motion.
Stepper motors are chosen for their precision and control. Unlike DC motors, stepper motors move in discrete steps, making them ideal for applications that require precise positioning and repeatability. In this balancing robot, the stepper motors are responsible for adjusting the position of the wheels to keep the robot upright.
Building the Balancing Robot
Building a balancing robot involves several steps, starting with assembling the hardware. The Arduino Pro Mini is connected to the MPU-6050 sensor and the stepper motors. The sensor data is processed by the Arduino, which then sends commands to the stepper motors to adjust the robot’s position. This feedback loop is essential for maintaining balance.
One of the challenges in building a balancing robot is tuning the control algorithm. The Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) controller is commonly used for this purpose. The PID controller adjusts the motor commands based on the error between the desired and actual positions of the robot. Tuning the PID parameters can be a trial-and-error process, but it is crucial for achieving stable and responsive performance.
Watch the video below to learn more about the project, which is available via Brokking by following the link below.
If you’re familiar with the Segway or other vehicles that balance in what is known as an “inverted pendulum” configuration, you may think that while interesting, creating something similar would be too complicated or out of your budget. Though perhaps still not simple, Joop Brokking takes you through his design for this type of bot in the video seen here, making it accessible if you’d like to build your own.
In addition to the hardware, the software plays a critical role in the robot’s performance. The Arduino code must read the sensor data, compute the control signals, and drive the motors in real-time. Joop Brokking provides detailed instructions and code examples to help you get started. His approach makes it easier for beginners to understand the concepts and build their own balancing robots.
Building a DIY balancing robot is not only a fun and rewarding project but also an excellent way to learn about robotics, control systems, and sensor integration. Whether you are a hobbyist or a student, this project offers valuable hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of how complex systems work.
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
