Build Your Own Arduino Robotic Arm with Automatic Operation

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Assembling the Makin Wheels Robot
   • Mounting the Servo Motors
   • Attaching the Waist Part
   • Assembling the Shoulder Servo
   • Building the Gripper Mechanism
   • Cable Management
   • Connecting to Arduino
3. Circuit Diagram and Connections
4. Arduino Code and Bluetooth Communication
5. Saving and Running Robot Movements
6. Limitations and Considerations
7. Conclusion

Introduction

In this article, we will explore how to assemble and control a Makin Wheels robot with a 3D printed robotic arm. We will also discuss the process of storing and automatically repeating robot movements. This project combines the previously demonstrated Makin Wheels platform and the Arduino-controlled robotic arm. Additionally, we will provide an updated version of the robot arm control app and Arduino code. Let's dive into the step-by-step process of building and operating this impressive robot.

Assembling the Makin Wheels Robot

To begin, we need to assemble the Makin Wheels platform and attach the 3D printed parts of the robotic arm. First, we mount the servo motors on the top cover of the platform. Then, we secure the waist part to the servo motor's output shaft. By adding MDF boards, we ensure stability for the joint.

Next, we assemble the shoulder servo and attach it to the 3D printed part using self-tapping screws. The gripper mechanism is controlled by another servo motor, which we connect to a custom-designed geared link. All the links are connected using bolts and nuts.

Circuit Diagram and Connections

In this section, we will discuss the circuit diagram and how the components need to be connected. The Meccan Wheels robot requires a voltage regulator, as the servo motors operate at 5 volts while we are using a 12-volt power supply. We use an LM350 voltage regulator, which can handle the necessary current, but may become hot. To address this, we add a heatsink and a small 12-volt DC fan for cooling. The servo motors' signal wires are connected to Arduino digital pins, and we use the 5 volts pin header on the PCB for power.

Arduino Code and Bluetooth Communication

Now let's move on to the Arduino code and Bluetooth communication. We need to define the servo motors, stepper motors, and establish Bluetooth communication. In the code's loop section, we check for incoming data from the smartphone app or the injuried application. The injury tap, created using the MIT App Inventor, sends one-byte numbers corresponding to the button clicked. This allows us to control the movements of the robot arm and Makin Wheels platform. We have replaced the sliders in the original robot arm control app with buttons to improve stability.

Saving and Running Robot Movements

One of the standout features of this robot is the ability to store and automatically repeat movements. By clicking the "Save" button, we can store the positions of the servo and stepper motors for each step. Then, by clicking the "Run" button, the robot will automatically repeat the stored movements. It is important to position the robot in a way that the first and last steps have the same position. The movements can be adjusted in speed and reset if needed.

Limitations and Considerations

While this project offers impressive functionality, there are some limitations to keep in mind. The automatic movements may not be precise due to the slipping of the Makin Wheels and the performance of the servo motors. These inexpensive servos might shake or jitter, particularly when carrying the weight of the 3D printed parts. Nevertheless, this project serves as an excellent starting point for robotics enthusiasts.

Conclusion

In this comprehensive tutorial, we have covered the step-by-step process of assembling and controlling a Makin Wheels robot with a 3D printed robotic arm. We have explored the circuit diagram, Arduino code, and Bluetooth communication. The ability to save and repeat robot movements adds another layer of functionality to this project. Despite its limitations, this project offers a great learning experience in the field of robotics. Remember to visit our website for more tutorials and projects. Keep exploring and creating with How to Mechatronics!

Highlights

• Assembly of the Makin Wheels robot and 3D printed robotic arm
• Circuit diagram and connections for the project
• Arduino code and Bluetooth communication
• Saving and repeating robot movements
• Considerations and limitations of the project

FAQ

Q: Can I use different servo motors for the robotic arm? A: Yes, you can use different servo motors as long as they are compatible with the project requirements.

Q: Can I modify the robotic arm design and dimensions? A: Absolutely! The 3D model and STL files are available for download, allowing you to customize the design according to your needs.

Q: Is it possible to control the robot from a different device or interface? A: The Bluetooth communication and Arduino code can be adapted to work with different devices or interfaces, providing flexibility in control options.

Q: How accurate are the automatic movements of the robot? A: Due to the nature of the Makin Wheels platform and the limitations of the servo motors, the automatic movements may not be extremely precise. The project serves as a great starting point for further exploration and improvements.