Building a GPS-Based Self-Driving Car The project involves creating a self-driving car powered by an Arduino Mega, utilizing GPS and compass modules for navigation. The Neo 67 V2 GPS provides location coordinates while the HMC/QMC Compass determines direction. A dual motor system controlled via an L298N board enables movement, with differential drive steering managed through signals from the microcontroller.
Wiring and Electronics Setup The Arduino Mega is preferred due to its multiple serial ports needed for connecting both Bluetooth and GPS modules simultaneously. Proper wiring includes linking TX/RX pins between components correctly, powering devices like the compass using 5V pins on the board, and controlling motors via pin number 13 to toggle motion during setup phases.
Programming Navigation Logic Navigation relies on libraries such as TinyGPS Plus for processing data from sensors. Key parameters include heading tolerance (to avoid overcorrection) and waypoint distance tolerance (adjustable based on accuracy). Calibration ensures precise readings from compasses; waypoints are defined in code along with stop durations at each point before proceeding further autonomously.
Testing Autonomous Movement During testing, power was supplied separately: USB-powered systems used a power bank while motors relied on Lithium Polymer batteries. The robot navigated predefined waypoints autonomously but faced challenges like thick grass causing wheel slippage or getting stuck—requiring occasional manual intervention without altering its programmed pathfinding logic.
'Lessons Learned' From Field Trials 'Thick grass terrain proved unsuitable,' highlighting design limitations of wheels not optimized for outdoor use despite successful autonomous operation under better conditions.' Future improvements could focus more robust designs tailored towards diverse terrains ensuring smoother performance across varying environments."