Remote Controlled Car | Arbin Shakya

Project Overview

The Remote Controlled Car is a custom-built vehicle that can be controlled wirelessly using a mobile application. It features directional controls and LED functionality, operated via Bluetooth communication between a smartphone and the Arduino board.

Completed: 2022

Status: Completed

Event: Duke of Edinburgh's International Award

Project Description

This RC car project was developed as part of the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award program. The car is controlled via a Bluetooth connection from a smartphone app, allowing for forward, backward, left, and right movements, as well as LED control for visibility in low-light conditions.

Technical Implementation

The project is built around an Arduino microcontroller that receives commands via Bluetooth from a smartphone app. The Arduino then controls the motors and LED according to the commands received.

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                                char t;
                                
                                void setup() {
                                pinMode(13, OUTPUT); // left motors forward
                                pinMode(12, OUTPUT); // left motors reverse
                                pinMode(11, OUTPUT); // right motors forward
                                pinMode(10, OUTPUT); // right motors reverse
                                pinMode(9, OUTPUT); // Led
                                Serial.begin(9600);
                                }
                                
                                void loop() {
                                if(Serial.available()) t = Serial.read();
                                
                                if(t == 'F') { // forward
                                  digitalWrite(13, HIGH); digitalWrite(11, HIGH);
                                }
                                else if(t == 'B') { // backward
                                  digitalWrite(12, HIGH); digitalWrite(10, HIGH);
                                }
                                else if(t == 'L') { // right turn
                                  digitalWrite(11, HIGH);
                                }
                                else if(t == 'R') { // left turn
                                  digitalWrite(13, HIGH);
                                }
                                else if(t == 'S') { // stop
                                  digitalWrite(13, LOW); digitalWrite(12, LOW);
                                  digitalWrite(11, LOW); digitalWrite(10, LOW);
                                }
                                delay(100);
                                }

Project Hardware

The project uses an Arduino UNO, L298N motor driver, and HC-05 Bluetooth module to control a 4-wheel chassis. Below you can see both the circuit diagram and the actual implementation.

Circuit diagram

Final assembled RC car

Key Features

Bluetooth-controlled from a smartphone app
Four-directional movement: forward, backward, left, and right
LED lighting for nighttime operation
Simple and efficient Arduino code
Battery-powered for portability

Circuit Diagram

The circuit diagram used in this project is credited to Saman Fern on Project Hub. It features an Arduino connected to motor drivers and a Bluetooth module for wireless communication.

Development Process

The development of this RC car was a learning experience that involved understanding motor control, wireless communication, and mobile app integration. The project was built in stages:

Circuit design and assembly
Arduino programming for motor control
Integration with Bluetooth module
Testing and refinement of controls
Addition of LED functionality

Challenges & Solutions

Challenge: Motor speed calibration for straight movement
Solution: Fine-tuned motor power through code adjustments
Challenge: Bluetooth connection stability
Solution: Implemented timeout and reconnection logic

Results & Impact

The RC car project was successfully completed as part of the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award program. It demonstrated practical applications of electronics and programming skills while providing a fun and interactive learning experience.

Future Improvements

Add obstacle detection and avoidance capabilities
Implement speed control functionality
Integrate a camera for remote viewing