Author(s): Ella Hansen, Sebastien Fregeau, Lucca Coelho, Rodrigo Armaza, Efe Sezer, Efe Kaya
Mentor(s): Masoud Malekzadeh
Institution SUU
Robots have become an integral part of modern technology, especially with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). Today, robots are widely used for tasks such as object detection, precise movements, manufacturing automation, line tracking, and environmental mapping. Our project aims to build a custom robot that can perform multiple autonomous tasks using a combination of hardware components and software programming. The focus is on creating a versatile platform that can handle obstacle avoidance, facial and motion tracking, line following, and environmental awareness. To achieve this, we are integrating several key components: a Jetson Nano for AI processing, an Arduino Elegoo as the main microcontroller, and additional sensors and actuators. The Jetson Nano provides the computational power needed for running AI algorithms, while the Arduino Elegoo handles low-level motor control and sensor interfacing. This hybrid approach allows us to harness the strengths of both platforms — the AI capabilities of the Jetson Nano and the versatile control features of the Arduino. Our robot is equipped with a 12V DC motor and encoder, enabling precise control of the motor speed and position. By using real-time feedback from the encoder, we can adjust the motor speed accurately, enhancing the robot’s ability to navigate complex environments. Additionally, the robot includes an array of sensors for detecting obstacles, recognizing human faces and movements, and tracking lines on the ground. These features are programmed using a combination of Python (for AI tasks) and Arduino C (for motor control and sensor handling). The goal of this project is to create a fully autonomous robot capable of interacting with its environment and making intelligent decisions based on sensor data. This includes avoiding obstacles in real-time, tracking the motion of nearby people, following predefined paths, and reacting to changes in its surroundings. Such a robot has potential applications in fields like warehouse automation, security, and personal assistance. By combining hardware design with advanced AI algorithms, we aim to demonstrate the capabilities of custom-built robots in performing complex, real-world tasks autonomously. This project not only showcases our engineering and programming skills but also highlights the potential of integrating AI into robotics for practical applications.