Haoqing Zhu haoqing3 ECE 110
George Oliver gso2 ECE 110
Aditi Ghosalkar aditikg2 ECE 120
Introduction
Statement of Purpose
Today, moving heavy objects around is highly inefficient. People still have to put in an enormous amount of work to be able to move everything around. We propose a platform that can hold heavy objects (furniture, suitcases, etc.) and be able to automatically follow the user wherever they go.
Background Research
Currently, there are no cheap solutions in the marketplace to fulfill this issue. Most current products cost at least $1000 while also not being completely autonomous. We are looking to fulfill a smaller need for lighter objects than the current solution such as suitcases or bookbags . Besides helping everyday people, this product may also be beneficial for those with physical disabilities who are unable to move heavy objects easily. For example, it may be difficult for a person confined to a wheelchair to pull a suitcase next to them.
Design Details
Block Diagram / Flow Chart
System Overview
The Arduino will be powered by a battery system. Using GPS and compass with a Bluetooth connection will let the platform figure out how to move towards the user. Wheel and Motor system are used for actual movement.
Parts
Constructing platform
Nails http://www.homedepot.com/p/Crown-Bolt-1-in-Stainless-Finishing-Nails-75-Pack-03514/203436055
Wood 25" x 20"
Wheels http://www.homedepot.com/p/Power-Care-6-in-x-1-1-2-in-Plastic-Wheel-for-Lawn-Mower-460435/100147219
Sensors
Bluetooth https://www.adafruit.com/product/2479
Proximity sensor (in ECE 110 kit)
Batteries/Power Source https://www.sparkfun.com/products/11856
Arduino
Possible Challenges
Programming so that motor knows where to follow you
Calibrating the sensors so that the Arduino is able to locate you and figure out how to get to you
Construction of the platform so that it is able to hold a large amount of weight
Making sure that the system does not run into any obstacles (i.e. walls, hills, cliffs, etc.)
References:
Project idea inspiration: https://create.arduino.cc/projecthub/hackerhouse/make-an-autonomous-follow-me-cooler-7ca8bc?ref=search&ref_id=follow%20me%20cooler&offset=1
Current similar solutions: http://www.globalindustrial.com/c/material-handling/platform-trucks/self-propelled
