Mick-E Mobile Robot Project [2025]
The MickE Mobile Robot Project is part of the Mechatronics Engineering Technology program at Anne Arundel Community College. This educational project involves faculty and students in the design and programming of a mobile robot named "MickE." Aimed at demonstrating basic principles of robotics and automation, MickE is designed to navigate environments autonomously using sensors like cameras and LIDAR. The project allows students to build and program affordable robots using Python and Raspberry Pi computers, enhancing their learning experience and providing practical skills in robotics.
Plan/Objectives
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Add Encoders for Precise Movement:
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Install encoders to measure motor rotations, aiding the robot in moving in straight lines or making accurate turns.
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This will enhance control over the robot's movement, critical for more advanced tasks.
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Experiment with LIDAR to Map Surroundings:
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Use LIDAR sensors to measure distances to objects and create a map of the robot’s environment.
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The goal is to learn to identify objects and understand the layout of environments, such as detecting walls and obstacles.
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Plan Paths and Avoid Obstacles:
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Utilize the maps created by LIDAR to navigate from one point to another while avoiding obstacles.
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This teaches the combination of mapping and logic to enable intelligent autonomous movement.
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Use a Camera for Object Detection:
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Incorporate a camera to use OpenCV for recognizing objects in the robot’s path.
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This stage is aimed at giving the robot the ability to see and react to the world more dynamically.
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Add Artificial Intelligence (AI):
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Integrate AI to analyze sensor data (from LIDAR, camera, etc.) and suggest actions for the robot.
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The AI might help the robot make decisions, like navigating around obstacles or towards specific targets.
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The ultimate goal is to progressively enhance the robot's capabilities, from following simple lines to navigating complex environments using AI, thus providing a comprehensive learning experience in robotics, programming, and AI.
To Do List
1) Gavin & Chris do paperwork to get paid
2) Build MickE mechanicals
3) Design housings for RPi5 and other electronics
4) Finish up & submit research journal
Project Files
GITHUB: https://github.com/timcallinan/AACC-Mobile-Robot1
SOLIDWORKS: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1sC8ZaJDt4ajdvamWC4Uzmz6rUadgDIrD?usp=sharing
Student Researchers
Terry Slattery, Christopher Rader, Caden Annadale, Gavin Sienkiewich
Acknowledgments
We would like to thank David Malawey from the Scuttlebot project for his contributions/advice to our mobile robotics project. https://www.scuttlerobot.org/
This project is sponsored by the Undergraduate Research Journal at Anne Arundel Community College. Thank you for the funding.
