Project
| # | Title | Team Members | TA | Documents | Sponsor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 34 | Board Buddy |
Alfredo Angel Gabe Valles Louie Conn |
Surya Vasanth | design_document1.pdf final_paper1.pdf grading_sheet1.pdf photo1.jpg presentation1.pdf proposal1.pdf video |
|
| # Board Buddy ## Team Members: - Alfredo Angel (alfredo9) - Gabriel Valles (gvall4) - Lewis Conn (lewisc2) # Problem Instructional writing boards, such as chalkboards and whiteboards, are widely used in educational and professional settings, but manually erasing these boards is time-consuming and disrupts workflow. During brainstorming sessions, lectures, or meetings, manually erasing the board can slow down productivity. Additionally, custodians spend hours cleaning boards outside of school hours, making it a labor-intensive task. Current solutions are either completely manual or require expensive, rail-based automated systems that only work on pre-sized boards. There is a need for a cost-effective, portable, and efficient automated eraser that can remotely clean boards of various sizes and shapes with minimal human intervention. # Solution We propose **BoardBuddy**, an autonomous board eraser designed to clean magnetic writing boards efficiently. The device will attach securely using **neodymium magnets** and navigate using **omnidirectional wheels** controlled by an **ESP32 microcontroller**. It will feature **edge detection using microswitch lever arms** and **an accelerometer for stability**. The system will be battery-powered with a **low dropout regulator (LDO)** for stable operation. It will include a **lightweight 3D-printed housing** for structural support and protection. Additionally, a **mobile application** will allow users to remotely activate the device, schedule cleaning sessions, and monitor its status. # Solution Components ## Subsystem 1: Locomotion and Mounting **Function:** Enables the device to move smoothly across the board while maintaining consistent contact for effective erasing. **Components:** - **Omnidirectional Wheels** – Allow unrestricted movement in any direction. - **Neodymium Magnets** – Securely mount the device while allowing mobility. - **DC Motors** – High-torque motors for smooth movement (e.g., **Pololu 25D Metal Gearmotor 12V**). - **Motor Drivers** – Dual-channel motor drivers (e.g., **TB6612FNG**). ## Subsystem 2: Erasing Mechanism **Function:** Erases the board as the device moves. **Components:** - **Eraser Pads** – Replaceable pads mounted on the device. - **Spring Mechanism** – Ensures even pressure for effective cleaning. ## Subsystem 3: Navigation and Edge Detection **Function:** Prevents the device from falling off the board by detecting edges and obstacles. **Components:** - **Microswitch Lever Arms** – Detect board edges and trigger direction changes. - **ESP32 Microcontroller** – Processes sensor inputs and controls movement. - **IMU Sensor (Optional, e.g., MPU-6050)** – Provides additional orientation data. ## Subsystem 4: Power Management **Function:** Supplies stable power to all components. **Components:** - **LiPo Battery Pack** – Rechargeable power source. - **LDO Voltage Regulator (e.g., LM7805)** – Steps down battery voltage for ESP32 and other components. ## Subsystem 5: Enclosure **Function:** Protects components and provides a lightweight, compact structure. **Components:** - **3D-Printed Housing** – Custom enclosure for durability and heat dissipation. ## Subsystem 6: PCB Design **Function:** Integrates motor control, edge detection, and power management into a single, compact PCB. **Components:** - **Custom PCB** with footprints for: - **ESP32** - **Motor Driver ICs (TB6612FNG)** - **Voltage Regulator (LM7805)** - **Edge detection circuitry (microswitch connectors)** - **Standard connectors for battery, motors, and sensors** ## Subsystem 7: Application **Function:** Provides remote control, scheduling, and monitoring features. **Features:** - **Remote Activation** of the eraser. - **Scheduled Cleaning Sessions** (e.g., set to clean at night or after class). - **Manual Control** via app. - **Usage History/Log** for tracking. - **Status Monitoring** (Idle, Cleaning, Error). - **Developed using Flutter or React Native** for cross-platform compatibility. # Criterion for Success BoardBuddy will be considered successful if it meets the following criteria: - **Effective Erasing:** Cleans most of residue in a single pass. - **Secure Mounting:** Neodymium magnets must hold the device firmly on the board without slipping. - **Edge Detection:** The device must detect board edges and avoid falling off. - **Smooth Locomotion:** Omnidirectional wheels must provide **consistent and unrestricted movement**. - **Reliable Power:** The battery must provide **at least 30 minutes of continuous operation**. - **Compact Design:** The device must be lightweight and compact to minimize magnet usage. - **Custom PCB Functionality:** The PCB must integrate motor control, edge detection, and power management without external breadboards or components. - **Application Integration:** The app must allow for **remote control, scheduling, and monitoring**. |
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