report
report
*Introduction
The Arduino-powered maze-solving robot stands as a notable educational and
research apparatus in robotics and automation. Employing an array of ultrasonic
sensors coupled with an Arduino controller, this robot is adept at navigating
complex maze environments. This not only deepens the understanding of
programming and automated system design for students, enthusiasts, and tech
aficionados but also teaches problem-solving skills in unpredictable and dynamic
settings.
Practically, the robot's autonomous navigation capabilities have broader
applications, such as in automated vacuum cleaners, industrial site autonomous
vehicles, and even in exploratory vehicles on challenging terrains like Mars, where
human-independent navigation is critical.
*Hardware Components
-Arduino UNO: This central processing unit interprets sensor inputs and
orchestrates motor responses for navigation.
- Ultrasonic Sensor HC-SR04:This sensor offers precise distance measurements,
enabling the robot to interact effectively with its surroundings.
- L298N Motor Driver Module: This module controls motor power, facilitating
adjustments in the robot's speed and directional movement.
*Circuit Layout
Setup Function
- `setup()`: Initializes serial communication, sets pin modes, and ensures the robot
is stationary at startup.
Main Loop Function
-` loop()`: The core logic where distances are measured continuously. Depending
on these distances, the robot decides to move forward, backward, turn left, turn
right, or stop.
Movement Functions
- `moveForward()`, `moveBackward()`, `turnRight()`, `turnLeft()`,
`moveStop()`: These functions control the robot's movements. They use
`analogWrite()` for speed control and `digitalWrite()` for direction control.
*Algorithmic Framework
- Navigation Algorithm: The robot employs the "Wall Follower" technique, a
prevalent maze-solving strategy, where it keeps adjacent to a maze wall for
guidance.
- Obstacle Avoidance Algorithm: Upon encountering an obstacle, the robot
evaluates distances using its tri-directional sensors and opts for the most open path,
ensuring uninterrupted navigation.
*Testing and Assessment
The robot undergoes thorough testing in obstacle-laden environments to evaluate
the navigation algorithm's efficiency, pinpointing system strengths and areas for
improvement.
*Outcomes
The testing phase demonstrates the efficacy of the "Wall Follower" algorithm in
simple mazes, suggesting the need for algorithmic refinement for more intricate
maze configurations.
*Conclusion
Beyond its educational value, the maze-solving robot showcases potential in real-
world applications that demand sophisticated automation and independent
navigation. The use of Arduino and C++ ensures flexible system integration and
expansion, setting a robust foundation for progressive educational and research
endeavors.