Inspiration
We wanted to experiment with self-driving technology on a smaller scale using accessible hardware. RoboTaxi started as a fun way to explore autonomous navigation with Arduino, tackling challenges in sensor-based movement and basic decision-making.
What it does
RoboTaxi is a small, self-driving Arduino-powered robot that can navigate a simple course. It attempts to detect obstacles and adjust its path accordingly—though it doesn't "see" very well yet!
How we built it
Hardware: An Arduino-based chassis with motors, ultrasonic sensors, and basic wiring. Software: C++ code running on the Arduino, processing sensor data for basic obstacle avoidance. Navigation: Uses ultrasonic sensors (with mixed success) to detect obstacles and change direction.
Challenges we ran into
The ultrasonic sensors don’t always detect objects accurately, leading to some crashes. Fine-tuning the movement logic so it doesn’t just spin in circles. Power management—making sure it runs smoothly without frequent resets.
Accomplishments that we're proud of
It moves! And (sometimes) avoids obstacles! Successfully implemented basic autonomous behavior with minimal hardware. Learned a lot about Arduino, motor control, and debugging hardware issues.
What we learned
Working with sensors in real-world conditions is harder than expected. Small miscalculations in motor speed and sensor angles can cause big problems. Debugging hardware is very different from debugging software!
What's next for RoboTaxi
Improve obstacle detection (maybe try infrared or a camera module). Fine-tune movement for smoother navigation. Add more autonomy—like following a set path or responding to voice commands.
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