METROMOVER

Description

This project is essentially a modification of a standard single-direction line robot. This has not yet been observed to stop at certain points along a line, nor has there been any demonstration of both a forwards and backwards capability in this type of design. We are looking to expand on the pathfinding of these robots to represent programmed routes for vehicles in urban environments.

The intent is to envision the usage of electric self-driving vehicles that contribute to low emissions and efficient urban transportation.

Inspiration

This project was inspired by the observation of modern bus transportation systems and advancements in AI self-driving vehicles.

Prototyping Process

Phase 1

1. Project Brief
2. Whiteboarding
3. Pseudocoding
4. Materials Gathering
5. Computer-Aided Drafting
6. Electrical Schematics

Phase 2

1. Physical Assembly
2. Code
3. Initial Test

Phase 3

1. Final Test
2. Presentation
3. Pitch

Challenges

Design Limitations

One major limitation of this project is the inability to compensate for traffic and/or unexpected obstacles. This would be normally accomplished by the usage of an ultrasonic sensor or even Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) technology. This is likely managed by a human operator in the event such a situation occurs.

Accomplishments

The ability to create a line robot was a significant challenge by itself that we are proud of accomplishing. The additional modifications to such a project, then, were further ambitious hurdles.

Identifying several multidisciplinary issues with our project was a long and difficult task, so we are happy to have several different types of challenges which developed our skills in the general engineering environment.

Lessons Learned

Electricity and circuitry is something that is not to be underestimated. Furthermore, diagnosing hardware issues can be relatively difficult when several factors can be at play at once such as software.

Future Steps

Iterations

Iteration One

Modified line-following robot that stops for an amount of time based on an additional IR sensor that detects a patch of electrical tape designated as a "stop".

Iteration Two

Line-following robot is able to move in forwards and backwards directions.

Iteration Three

Line-following robot displays an LED signal that shows when it has stopped and when it is going forward.

Iteration Four

Line-following robot displays an LED screen that shows when it has stopped at a particular point.

Iteration Five

Line-following robot is able to traverse a forked path and return to the original based on a condition.

Value of Implementation

Automatic vehicle movement represents a potential major innovation that can change the future of public transportation and logistics. This project is essentially a rudimentary proof-of-concept of what technology moving in this direction is capable of doing for urban environments.

(VIDEO INCLUDED)

Built With

• arduino
• c++