Week​ 17

Applications and Implications, Project Development

Checklist
Scope of a project

Special Spherical Bot The Special Spherical Bot project aims to design, fabricate, and test a compact mobile robot controlled wirelessly via a custom-designed handheld controller. The bot is built using a 3D-printed mechanical frame, a custom on-bot PCB featuring a Raspberry Pi Pico microcontroller, and motor drivers for bidirectional motion. The controller unit is powered by an ESP32-C3 and includes a joystick interface for intuitive real-time navigation.

Develop a project plan including a schedule
Bill of materials (BOM)
Summarise and communicate the essence of  project development

The Special Spherical Bot project focuses on developing a compact, wirelessly controlled robotic platform optimized for movement control using custom-designed electronics and mechanical systems. The bot features a 3D-printed chassis designed in CAD, housing two 12V gear motors, omni wheels, and a Raspberry Pi Pico for motor control. A custom PCB handles motor drivers and power regulation. The controller unit is built around an ESP32-C3 with a joystick interface, allowing real-time wireless communication via ESP-NOW. 
The controller also uses a custom PCB and battery-powered design for portability. Software handles joystick parsing, PWM-based motor actuation, and safety protocols. The system has been tested for range, latency, and power usage, culminating in a reliable, responsive, and modular control solution.

What will it do?

The Special Spherical Bot is a custom-built mobile robot that responds to real-time joystick input from a wireless handheld controller.

Its main functions include:

Who has done what beforehand?

Previously, a few YouTubers inspired by the Star Wars movies built versions of the BB-8 droid, which motivated me to develop my own spherical bot. During my weekly review, Neil suggested looking into a 2017 project for reference. This helped me gain deeper understanding and direction for refining my design.

What will you design?

Here, I focused primarily on the movement of the bot, as it's the core functional part. On top of this base, additional features can be built later. I designed the spherical shell with internal compartments housing the receiver and transmission system, which work together to drive and control the bot's movement effectively.

What materials and components will be used?

Here is the Bill of Materials (BOM) for detailed reference, listing all components and materials used in the project:

Electronic Component

3D Printed Parts

What will it do?

The Special Spherical Bot is a custom-built mobile robot that responds to real-time joystick input from a wireless handheld controller.

Its main functions include:

Who has done what beforehand?

Previously, a few YouTubers inspired by the Star Wars movies built versions of the BB-8 droid, which motivated me to develop my own spherical bot. During my weekly review, Neil suggested looking into a 2017 project for reference. This helped me gain deeper understanding and direction for refining my design.

What will you design?

Here, I focused primarily on the movement of the bot, as it's the core functional part. On top of this base, additional features can be built later. I designed the spherical shell with internal compartments housing the receiver and transmission system, which work together to drive and control the bot's movement effectively.

What materials and components will be used?

Here is the Bill of Materials (BOM) for detailed reference, listing all components and materials used in the project:

Electronic Components:

3D Printed Parts:

How much will they cost?

Note: The cost in India is approximately 3700, which is around $50 

How will it be evaluated?
What Processes Will Be Used?
What Questions Need to Be Answered?
What Tasks Have Been Completed? 
What Tasks Remain?
What Has Worked?
What Hasn’t?
What Questions Need to Be Resolved?
What Will Happen When?
What Have You Learned?

Wildcard Week

System Integration