Metal Detecting Rover

Project Overview

The Metal Detecting Rover is an autonomous solar-powered vehicle designed to search for and map metallic objects in various terrains. It combines advanced navigation systems with metal detection technology to automate what would otherwise be a manual, time-consuming process.

This project was developed as part of my work at Neoterium Labs, where we focused on creating practical applications of robotics and autonomous systems for real-world problems.

Technical Details

Hardware Components:

• Chassis: Custom-designed using Fusion360 and 3D printed with reinforced materials for durability in harsh environments
• Motors: Dual worm gear motors with custom tank tread system for all-terrain navigation
• Power System: 10W flexible solar panel with 5000mAh LiPo battery backup
• Sensors: Metal detector coil with custom amplifier circuit, GPS module, 9-axis IMU, digital compass
• Microcontrollers: Arduino Mega for motor control and sensor integration, ESP32 for wireless communication and data processing

Software Architecture:

• Navigation System: Custom C++ algorithms for autonomous path planning and obstacle avoidance
• PID Controller: Implemented for precise movement control using gyroscope and compass data
• Metal Detection: Signal processing algorithms to filter noise and accurately identify metallic objects
• Mapping System: GPS-based mapping with metal detection points plotted for later retrieval
• Power Management: Intelligent system to optimize power usage based on available solar energy

Development Process

The development of the Metal Detecting Rover involved several key phases:

Research and Planning:

• Conducted market research on existing metal detection technologies
• Analyzed terrain requirements and mobility challenges
• Created detailed system architecture and component specifications

Prototype Development:

• Designed initial chassis prototypes in Fusion360
• Tested various motor configurations for optimal torque and efficiency
• Developed and tested metal detection circuitry
• Created first version of navigation software

System Integration:

• Combined hardware components into a functional prototype
• Integrated power management system with solar charging
• Implemented communication protocols between microcontrollers
• Created and refined mapping algorithms

Testing and Refinement:

• Conducted field tests in various terrain conditions
• Refined metal detection sensitivity and accuracy
• Optimized power consumption for extended operation
• Improved mapping precision and data visualization

Results and Impact

The Metal Detecting Rover demonstrated significant improvements over traditional metal detection methods:

• Efficiency: 75% improvement in detection efficiency compared to manual methods
• Coverage: Ability to systematically cover large areas without missing spots
• Precision: GPS mapping with accuracy within 30cm for object retrieval
• Autonomy: Capable of operating for up to 8 hours on a sunny day without human intervention
• Terrain Adaptability: Successfully navigated sandy, rocky, and uneven surfaces

This project has potential applications in:

• Archaeological site surveying
• Mine detection and clearance
• Beach cleaning and metal debris collection
• Scrap metal recovery in environmentally sensitive areas

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