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Prototype Robot - Catermulcher

Prototype Robot - Catermulcher

Electrical System DesignEmbedded Firmware

Overview

6 wheel tank drive robot controlled wirelessly via remote software application.

Context

Catermulcher is a prototype robot designed to meet a request for proposal for fighting wildfires as part of Praxis III.

Due to the hazards and accessibility challenges associated with wildfire response, Catermulcher was designed for remote operation during debris-clearing activities.

Key Features

  • Electrical: Arduino and ESP MCUs, lithium-ion battery, switch mode power regulators, full-bridge motor controllers, brushless motors
  • Mechanical: 6 wheel drivetrain, rotating mulcher and flaps
  • Software: embedded firmware for motor control, Android Studio mobile application

Engineering Design Images

Integration of batteries with switch mode power supplies to power motors.
Integration of batteries with switch mode power supplies to power motors.
Motor spin test with full bridge motor controller modules.
Motor spin test with full bridge motor controller modules.