Building your own robot vacuum can be a fun and educational project that doesn't have to break the bank. With some basic electronic and hardware components that can be easily sourced for under $50, you can create a simple robot capable of autonomous cleaning.
Hardware Components Needed
To build the robot vacuum, you will need the following hardware components:
Motor
The motor is what powers the robot's movement. For a simple robot, a small DC hobby motor will suffice. These can be purchased online or from an electronics store for under $10. Make sure to get one that runs on 3-6V so it can be powered by batteries.
Wheels
Two wheels are needed to propel the robot. Miniature plastic wheels meant for robots can be bought inexpensively, or you can repurpose similar sized wheels from a toy.
Caster wheel
A caster wheel in the front will allow the robot to turn. The caster wheel should spin freely. Again, robot casters can be bought online or a repurposed wheel from a toy or furniture item will work.
Batteries
The robot will need a portable power source. 3-4 AA batteries held in a battery pack is an easy option. Rechargeable batteries are best if you want the robot to run for longer periods.
Battery holder
To mount the batteries securely on the robot, you'll need a battery holder. Make sure it can hold the number of batteries you intend to use.
Microcontroller
The microcontroller is the robot's "brain" that controls its behavior. An Arduino Nano or other mini microcontroller is perfect for a simple robot and costs $5-10.
Motor driver
The motor driver takes signals from the microcontroller and regulates power to the motor. An L298N dual motor driver costs around $5.
Chassis
The chassis provides the base frame and houses the components. Plastic boxes, food containers or wooden boards can be upcycled.
Wires, tape, glue etc.
Wires are needed to connect the components. Tape and glue will hold the parts in place on the chassis. Other useful materials are zip ties, screws and rubber bands.
Sensors (optional)
Sensors like ultrasonic or infrared allow the robot to detect and avoid obstacles. They are about $2-5 each if you want to upgrade your robot.
Assembly Steps
Follow these key steps to assemble your robot vacuum:
1. Prepare chassis
Cut holes in the plastic container or wooden board for the wheels, mount points and wires. Tape down or glue any components in place if needed.
2. Mount motor and wheels
Attach the motor and wheels on either side towards the back. The axles can stick through holes in the chassis or be hot glued into place.
3. Attach caster wheel
The front caster wheel should be able to swivel freely. Use tape, glue or screws to mount it to the front underside.
4. Mount battery pack
Secure the batteries centrally on top of the chassis using tape or the battery holder.
5. Mount microcontroller and motor driver
These can be hot glued, screwed or taped to the top of the chassis near the front.
6. Connect components with wires
Connect the motor terminals to the motor driver outputs. Connect battery pack wires to the motor driver. Plug microcontroller into the driver.
7. Upload code
Program the microcontroller with simple code to make the robot drive around and reverse when it hits an obstacle.
8. Add brushes/mop attachment
To make it clean, you can tape or glue brushes, cloth or a mop head to the underside.
And that completes assembly of your DIY robot vacuum! With some basic programming, it will now buzz around and clean your floors.
Tips for Adjustments and Improvements
Here are some additional tips to improve your homemade robot vacuum:
- Adjust wheel placement for better stability and turning
- Upgrade to better motors and wheels for more power
- Add bumpers on the front and sides to detect collisions
- Install ultrasonic sensors to detect and avoid obstacles
- Improve the chassis with better materials like acrylic sheets
- Add control buttons to manually drive and configure the robot
- Install LED lights and sounds for personality!
- Experiment with making a dust collecting bin to hold dirt
Building and tweaking your own robot vacuum is a great way to learn electronics and robotics skills. Starting with a simple budget design allows you to get the basics down before upgrading it over time. With some household materials and affordable parts, anyone can make their own bot on the cheap!