Note: Please scroll down to see all details of this project below ↓
ALFRED Robot
In the Fallof 2022, Spiers New Technologies Inc. sponsored our senior project, assigning a team of seven college students, including myself, to the ALFRED Robot project. ALFRED is a PHP/MySQL web application designed to collect, manage, and process battery-related data.
Our primary objective was to integrate an Axis Communications P5655-E 1080p Outdoor PTZ Network Dome Camera with a mobile platform controlled by a Raspberry Pi.
This included designing and developing a dedicated ALFRED web server to manage the robot's functions and display a live video feed from the camera. My responsibilities included designing and implementing ALFRED's movement capabilities and selecting components compatible with the Raspberry Pi.
Wiring Diagram:
Camera Connections
I was responsible for creating the complete wiring schematics for the robot using NI Multisim. This involved diagramming all connections for the camera and motor systems. For maximum clarity, I implemented a color-coding system to ensure the diagrams were easily understandable for both my professor and the sponsor.
Wiring Diagram:
Motor Connections
To support the creation of these wiring diagrams, I conducted extensive research to select optimal components, ensuring the robot's smooth functionality. The most challenging aspect was sourcing a suitable battery and selecting an appropriate buck converter. It was critical to avoid overpowering the Raspberry Pi while simultaneously supplying sufficient voltage to the microcontroller.
Cable Drawing:
Camera Connections
To supplement the wiring diagrams, I developed comprehensive cable drawings in NI Multisim. These drawings detail the specific type and gauge of wire for every connection. A crucial consideration during the design was proper wire gauge selection, which is essential for safely and efficiently managing power from high-voltage components.
Cable Drawing:
Motor Connections
Recognizing that clear communication is vital for project continuity and cross-departmental collaboration, I created meticulously labeled cable drawings. This documentation provides the sponsor with an easy-to-follow guide for any future alterations to the robot.
Wiring All The Components Together
During the physical wiring of components, it is crucial to double-check the work and to meticulously color-code and label every connection. This practice simplifies troubleshooting and reduces downtime should the robot not perform as expected.
The Finished Product doing its test run
The final ALFRED Robot features a main structure of aluminum extrusion with three 3D-printed platforms. It is powered by four 12V motors and a 13V battery pack, all managed by two H-bridge motor controllers and a Raspberry Pi. A camera, provided by our sponsor, is mounted on the top layer, with a Wi-Fi router on the middle layer to enable wireless server communication.
Demo video
ALFRED Robot
To ensure a flawless final demonstration, we conducted numerous test runs on the robot, allowing us to proactively identify and correct any functional errors.
Final Presentation To Our Sponsor
