Introduction

This year, I embarked on an ambitious project to build a moon robot from scratch. This project combines mechanical engineering, electrical design, and software development, pushing the boundaries of my skills and creativity. Our mission is to design and construct a remotely controlled moon buggy equipped with continuous tracks, capable of navigating rough lunar terrain.

The moon robot, inspired by lunar exploration vehicles, needs to be robust, agile, and fully controllable via a custom-developed Android app. The challenge is to create a reliable, efficient, and responsive robot that can be easily maneuvered using Bluetooth technology.

As the team’s electrical and coding lead, I am responsible for the entire electrical system and the development of the control software. My role involves developing a wiring schema to ensure all components are correctly connected and powered, creating a user-friendly Android app for remote control, and programming the PIC microcontroller to interface with the robot’s hardware. The goal is to enable the robot to move forward, backward, pivot on itself, and vary its speed, all through an intuitive smartphone interface.

Throughout this project, I aim to design an application that is simple to use yet powerful enough to offer all necessary functionalities for controlling the robot. This includes features such as forward and reverse motion, pivoting, and speed variation, with a maximum speed of 30 cm/s and a minimum speed of 10 cm/s. The application needs to be competitive, ensuring seamless operation and responsiveness to commands.

This project is an incredible learning experience, providing hands-on practice in integrating multiple engineering disciplines and overcoming various technical challenges. The following sections will detail the design, implementation, testing, and final outcomes of this exciting endeavor.

Project Overview

The moon robot’s design is inspired by lunar exploration vehicles, aiming to achieve robustness, agility, and full remote control. Our main goal was to create a reliable, efficient, and responsive robot that could be easily maneuvered using Bluetooth technology via a custom-developed Android app.

Design Phase

Mechanical Design

The mechanical design process focused on creating a chassis and continuous tracks that ensured stability and mobility on uneven surfaces. The design team worked meticulously to ensure the robot could navigate rough lunar terrain effectively.

Electrical Design

In the electrical design phase, I developed a comprehensive wiring schema to ensure all components were correctly connected and powered. This included motors, sensors, and the central PIC microcontroller. The goal was to create a reliable and efficient electrical system that would support the robot’s operations.

Software Design

The software design involved developing a user-friendly Android app for remote control and programming the PIC microcontroller to interface with the robot’s hardware. The app needed to provide intuitive controls for forward and reverse motion, pivoting, and speed variation.

Implementation Phase

Building the Robot

Once the design was finalized, we began assembling the mechanical parts, carefully following our blueprints. This phase involved constructing the chassis, attaching the continuous tracks, and integrating all mechanical components.

Wiring and Setup

I meticulously connected the electrical components, double-checking connections to prevent any malfunctions. This included wiring the motors, sensors, and the PIC microcontroller according to the developed schema.

Coding

Developing the Android app was a challenge, but it was rewarding to see it communicate seamlessly with the robot. Programming the PIC microcontroller involved writing efficient, bug-free code to ensure reliable operation. The app was created using MIT App Inventor, while the robot’s programming was done using Flowcode.

Challenges and Solutions

Throughout the project, we encountered several challenges, including ensuring stable Bluetooth connectivity, managing power distribution, and achieving precise motor control. To address these, we implemented robust error-handling in our code and optimized the power distribution to prevent overloads. Regular testing and iterative improvements were key to overcoming these obstacles.

Testing and Troubleshooting

We conducted extensive testing, both in controlled environments and on varied terrains, to ensure the robot’s reliability. Whenever issues arose, we systematically diagnosed and resolved them, refining both the hardware and software. This phase was crucial in ensuring the robot’s performance met our expectations.

Final Outcome

The completed moon robot exceeded our expectations, demonstrating excellent maneuverability and responsiveness. In our tests, the robot navigated obstacles with ease, and the Android app provided precise control. The project was a success, showcasing our ability to integrate mechanical, electrical, and software engineering disciplines effectively.

Personal Reflections

This project taught me valuable lessons in teamwork, problem-solving, and the integration of multiple engineering disciplines. It solidified my passion for technology and engineering, steering me towards a career in these fields. The hands-on experience was invaluable, and I am proud of what we accomplished as a team.

Conclusion

Building the moon robot was an unforgettable experience that challenged and inspired us. For students undertaking similar projects, I advise focusing on thorough planning, testing, and embracing the learning opportunities that arise from challenges. This project not only tested our technical skills but also our ability to work collaboratively and think creatively.

Appendices

SysML Diagrams

Internal Block Diagram

Use Case Diagram

Block Definition Diagram

Requirement Diagram