I've always had a passion for building with Lego bricks, but instead of following the instructions, I've loved creating my own designs. Recently, I've been exploring the capabilities of the Raspberry Pi and decided to push its limits with moving components. Previously, I used servos for motion, which were often noisy, imprecise, and unreliable.
Enter SaraKIT, my open-source PCB project designed to revolutionize how we control BLDC Gimbal Motors with unparalleled precision and quiet operation. With a treasure trove of Lego bricks, I envisioned creating an ultra-quiet and incredibly fast vehicle that could be easily controlled via a smartphone or computer.
This project, "RC Car2 - LEGO Powered by Raspberry Pi (SaraKIT+Xbox+Python)" is an evolution of the original concept. It differs from the first version by utilizing an Xbox controller for navigation instead of a smartphone app, enhancing the user interaction. Furthermore, the control software has been transitioned from C++ to Python, broadening accessibility and ease of customization.
SaraKIT allows for sophisticated features like camera integration, object recognition, or line tracking to bring any creative idea to life. I've also constructed a self-balancing vehicle, detailed in another project, showcasing the versatility of SaraKIT.
Here, I introduce a sleek, fast, and silent Lego car featuring highly precise independent 4-wheel drive with two differentials:
You can tailor the car's speed and power by adjusting the rear gear configuration.
Control the car using an Xbox controller with our sample Python software available on our GitHub repository.
Remote Controller (Xbox pad controller) on GitHub: https://sarakit.saraai.com/example-of-use/xbox-pad-control
Two precise BLDC Gimbal motors (two GM3506) are utilized—one for steering and the other for four-wheel drive:
SaraKIT is built on an open-source framework, enhancing its adaptability and innovation.
The car runs on a power bank. For mobility, connect directly to a PowerBank (PD2.0 PD3.0 Fast Charging and QC4 with USB-C output) using a special PD 12v cable, or through a USB-C PD Trigger Module Pd 12v.
SaraKIT is a Raspberry Pi CM4 expansion board that enables advanced voice control and precise motor management. It features three sensitive microphones, two independent BLDC motor controllers for quiet and precise control, a CSI interface for dual cameras, two accelerometers, a gyroscope, and a temperature sensor.
The PCB for SaraKIT was expertly manufactured by PCBWay.com, whose quality services come highly recommended.
SaraKIT Home Page:
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