Autonomous Rover - UC Irvine ENGR 7B
Team Captain / Fabrication / CAD
Project Type
Class Project
Date
Winter 2024
Location
Irvine, CA
Tools
SolidWorks CAD
3D Printer
Arduino
Laser Cutting
Overview
The objective of this project was to design, build, and validate an autonomous rover capable of navigating a defined course, identifying a target object using onboard sensing, and executing a precision capture maneuver without human input. The rover was required to follow a taped path using IR sensor feedback, transition to an object-search routine, recognize a colored target using a vision system, and then mechanically secure the object using a custom-designed claw mechanism. I designed and fabricated the rover chassis and claw mechanism, optimizing structural rigidity, component layout, and wiring accessibility. The team programmed the Arduino control system to enable full autonomy, developing a closed-loop line-following algorithm using IR sensor feedback and PWM motor control for accurate path tracking. We then integrated the PixyCam, configured color recognition, and implemented a state-machine logic system so the rover could transition between navigation, target detection, alignment, and grasping modes. After tuning thresholds and debugging sensor noise, the rover consistently followed the course, identified the colored object, and successfully captured it without human input.





