Created by Thompson, Payton Panayioti, last modified on Mar 03, 2020

Payton Thompson pthomp22 ECE110

Brad Palagi bpalagi2 ECE110

Bluetooth Electric Skateboard

Introduction

  1. Statement of Purpose

    1. Our project is to create a Bluetooth Motorized Skateboard. Instead of having the basic remote control, as most e-skateboards do, we would have an app created to connect to the skateboard and control it from there. Our team wanted to develop this skateboard for a few reasons: motorized skateboards are very expensive to buy, so we wanted to develop a cheaper model and the Bluetooth characteristic would make the skateboard unique compared to others by not having to have a controller allowing for an easier time to share the board without having to keep track of a pesky remote. The app would also be used to track data about the board, information such as battery usage, distance traveled, voltage, etc.

  2. Background Research

    1. We have read several articles and watched online videos vehicles of past projects that are similar. We want to build this because we both are fascinated by motorized skateboards. We both want one, but they are too expensive. Also, Bluetooth adds an interesting characteristic. More and more devices are becoming Bluetooth where wired devices are becoming obsolete. It is similar to a project from last semester with making a Bluetooth controlled skateboard.

Design Details

  1. Block Diagram

  1. Parts


  1. Possible Challenges

    1. Using Bluetooth to control a phone app, we both have iPhones and sometimes it’s easier to get an app going with android.

    2. Finding a way to limit the max speed.

    3. Having enough room under the board where the pully system is high enough off the ground where it won’t be damaged.

    4. It seems to be some worry about a loss of connection or other safety issues. We could add a mechanical switch on the board near a foot or something as an emergency cut off switch.

    5. The Bluetooth app seems like it would be cool but maybe we should initially plan for a normal remote and then if we have time try and use a phone controller.


  1. References

    1. https://www.deviceplus.com/arduino/electric-skateboard/3/

    2. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJqyWRSqOy4

    3. https://www.electric-skateboard.builders/t/beginners-guide-to-building-your-own-electric-skateboard-drivetrain/53

    4. https://www.instructables.com/id/Control-DC-Motors-with-your-Smartphone-Perfect-for/

    5. http://calc.esk8.it/

Attachments:

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image2020-2-25_19-28-57.png (image/png)
image2020-2-25_19-30-6.png (image/png)
Screen Shot 2020-03-03 at 7.13.35 PM.png (image/png)

Comments:

It doesn't seem like your block diagram is loading correctly. Can you please re-upload the image?

Please also add some more details into your project proposal, such as how you plan on building an app (keep in mind developing apps for iOS requires a mac as well as a $99 annual license from Apple). Also, please mention specific specifications/models or links to purchase under your BoM.
Posted by jamesw10 at Feb 15, 2020 20:38

I agree with James. Please think more about how you are going to create the app and write down a more detailed description of your background research. This is also a very expensive project, so I would suggest that you scale the project down into a smaller version or use the existing parts in the lab inventory.
Posted by yuchenc2 at Feb 16, 2020 01:39

This is actually kind of dangerous. A prior team (one of the members is a good friend of mine) did a similar project, and accidentally managed to have their wireless remote cut off in the "on" position and resulted in an out-of-control board with a person on it, unable to slow down and constantly accelerating.

Please be mindful of system reliability, fault tolerance, and basic safety principles.


Also, yes, your diagram is not loading, please check up on that.
Posted by fns2 at Feb 16, 2020 12:51

I would maybe aim for a smaller project size than a longboard as that will not only get you better battery life (or a smaller battery) but can usually be achieved at a lower cost.

If you really want to attempt something on the more expensive side like this I would try to get a very good plan and parts list going so we can get on board with the project (heh) and so you guys can focus on making it as safe and usable as possible.
Posted by dbycul2 at Feb 16, 2020 21:03

As above, diagram isn't loading and this is a bit high on the price end.

Look into incorporating existing things that we have in the lab. 
Posted by weustis2 at Feb 16, 2020 22:26

I've worked on a similar project in the past and would recommend designing the mechanical aspects as far as the undercarriage enclosures and how much space you're working with. This could affect which the drive train, motor mount, motor pulley, etc. 

Definitely look into ways you could add safety features in case connectivity between the board and your phone fails or other such problems occur!
Posted by rileymb3 at Feb 18, 2020 18:41

Your proposal is not yet approved, please make the necessary revisions ASAP, by tonight.
Posted by fns2 at Feb 20, 2020 18:50