Arduino Object Following Robot Project in Bangladesh

Introduction

Robotics is no longer limited to advanced laboratories. With affordable microcontrollers like Arduino, students and hobbyists in Bangladesh can build their own DIY robots at home. One exciting project is the Object Following Robot, which uses an HC-SR04 ultrasonic sensor to detect and follow objects placed in front of it.

This guide explains every detail, including components, wiring, cost breakdown in Bangladeshi Taka, tuning tips, troubleshooting, and possible upgrades. For a direct project reference, see the official guide at Object Following Robot (Arduino) — Bigyan Project.

Why Build an Arduino Object Following Robot?

• Affordable: Total cost ranges between 2,300–5,000 BDT depending on component quality.
• Educational: Learn about sensors, logic, PWM motor control, and robotics concepts.
• Fun & Engaging: Perfect for school fairs, STEM exhibitions, or hobby projects.
• Expandable: Start simple and later add Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or camera-based tracking.

Components & Cost (Bangladesh Market Estimate)

• Arduino Uno (clone) — 700–1,200 BDT
• Ultrasonic Sensor HC-SR04 — 120–250 BDT
• Motor Driver L298N — 250–450 BDT
• DC Gear Motors (2 pcs) — 300–700 BDT
• Wheels + Caster — 250–500 BDT
• Acrylic/DIY Chassis — 250–600 BDT
• Battery Pack (2S Li-ion/LiPo) — 300–700 BDT
• Jumper Wires — 80–200 BDT
• Miscellaneous (nuts, ties, spacers) — 50–150 BDT

Total Cost: BDT 2,300 – 5,000 depending on vendor and quality.

How Does the Object Following Robot Work?

1. The ultrasonic sensor sends sound pulses and measures the time taken for the echo to return.
2. The Arduino calculates distance using the echo timing and speed of sound.
3. If the distance falls within a defined range (e.g., 12–45 cm), the robot moves forward.
4. If the object is too close, the robot stops or reverses slightly.
5. If no object is detected, the robot rotates to search for a new target.

For smoother results, you can apply averaging or proportional control (adjusting speed based on distance).

Wiring & Circuit Setup

Connect the modules as follows:

• HC-SR04: Trig → D9, Echo → D8, Vcc → 5V, GND → GND
• L298N Motor Driver: IN1 → D5, IN2 → D4, IN3 → D7, IN4 → D6, ENA → D10 (PWM), ENB → D11 (PWM)
• Motors: Left → OUT1/OUT2, Right → OUT3/OUT4
• Battery: 7.4V Li-ion pack connected to L298N + GND (shared with Arduino)

Tip: Always share grounds between Arduino, sensor, and motor driver. Use a switch and fuse for safety.

Step-by-Step Build Process

1. Assemble the chassis with wheels and caster.
2. Mount motors securely using brackets.
3. Attach Arduino Uno and motor driver to chassis.
4. Wire components as per circuit mapping.
5. Upload the program to Arduino via USB.
6. Test distance readings using Serial Monitor.
7. Calibrate follow range (12–45 cm recommended).
8. Run final tests with battery pack installed.

Performance Tuning & Tips

• Use smooth floors for better wheel grip.
• Adjust motor base speeds to avoid drifting.
• Avoid very soft fabrics—they absorb ultrasonic signals.
• Prefer Li-ion packs over 9V batteries for stable torque.
• Test in different lighting and surfaces to optimize stability.

Possible Upgrades

• Add Bluetooth/Wi-Fi for remote control.
• Use multiple ultrasonic sensors for obstacle avoidance.
• Replace L298N with TB6612FNG for efficiency.
• Integrate encoders for PID-based speed control.
• Experiment with OpenCV and a camera for vision tracking.

Conclusion

The Arduino-based object following robot is an exciting project that introduces you to the world of robotics, sensors, and microcontrollers. With just a few affordable components, you can create a smart robot that follows objects in real time. This project is ideal for students, STEM clubs, and science fair competitions in Bangladesh.

For a complete build reference and additional resources, check the official guide at Object Following Robot (Arduino) — Bigyan Project.