WOC-Bot (Wheeled Object Carrier)
A mobile robot capable of carrying objects autonomously or via remote control. Designed for practical use cases service tasks.
Project Overview
WOC-Bot (Wheeled Object Carrier) is a second-year group project aimed at creating a smart mobile robot capable of transporting various objects. Its primary objective was to navigate autonomously or semi-autonomously through predefined paths in environments like homes, hospitals, or restaurants. Building and assembling the physical robot was one of the most exciting parts of the project.
Key Features
- Remote Control via Mobile App:
Users can control the robot through a custom mobile application built with MIT App Inventor, communicating via Bluetooth.
- Autonomous Navigation:
Users can upload a map image, draw the navigation path, and the robot will follow the predefined trajectory.
- Obstacle Detection and Avoidance:
Equipped with ultrasonic sensors (mounted on a servomotor for scanning) and infrared sensors on the sides to detect and avoid obstacles in real time.
- Dual Loading Plate Mechanism:
A push-button combined with a stepper motor allows the second plate to lift, enabling the robot to carry objects both on the lower and upper plates.
- Multi-Purpose Applications:
Designed for practical use in hospitals (delivering medicine), restaurants (serving meals), or even for home assistance.
Technical Approach
- Robot Control: Arduino microcontroller programmed in C++ to manage sensors, motors, and Bluetooth communication.
- Communication Protocol: Bluetooth module for wireless data exchange between the mobile app and the robot.
- Path Processing: Mobile app allowing users to define the environment and guide the robot based on user-uploaded maps and traced paths.
- Sensor Integration: Ultrasonic and infrared sensors combined with servomotors for environment analysis and obstacle avoidance.
My Role
I was deeply involved in both the mechanical assembly of the robot and its programming. I participated in setting up the Arduino control code, integrating the sensor management logic, and linking the Bluetooth communication with the mobile application. I also contributed to testing and optimizing the obstacle detection and dual plate lifting system.