PlutoX Rover

Description

I used the PlutoX board and a set of high efficiency metal geared motors to create a rover that would be agile and extremely precise with the handling due to its drone monitoring sensors.

Details

I used the PrimusX board as the base of my project.

I used this because of its built-in Wi-Fi connectivity module, basic drone sensors, motor drivers, and capability of using a high discharge single-cell LiPo battery. The board also had is own API and SDK for developer support to alter its functions.

I used Fusion 360 to design a flat pack assemble-able rover. I printed prototypes until the tolerances were met.

I then tested and chose four metal geared motors that run a low voltage of 3.7 volts to give 800 rpm. 

I mounted the motors on this 3D-printed mount and fastened with a zip-tie.

I also created a modular mount for an FPV (first-person view) camera for other applications and a fun perspective.

After that, I used the simple API and SDK to make the sensors capable of sensing the error displacement and give correctional values to the motor to self stabilise. With four high-torque metal geared motors all running at a no load 800 rpm gives the rover immense speed , pickup and self stability features. I took some help in creating a self-correcting algorithm and the results were great.

I used some grippy tyres to run the rover, finally creating an extremely cool rover.

To open drone experimentation to the world, Drona Aviation is crowdfunding for PlutoX on Indiegogo. Support them and help them bring it to life: https://igg.me/at/flyplutox/tinkerers

Build Instructions

Use Fusion 360 or any CAD software to design a rover frame, a basic car body with essential mounts mounts for the flight controller, four motors, and a 3.7V batttery between 250 to 600 mAh.

Print out this file with proper infill and material, preferably PLA or ABS.

The frame should be approximately 200*100*50.

Assemble the motors and flight controller with damper onto the rover chassis and fasten the battery.

Connect the wires of the motor with correct polarity into the motor drivers on the flight controller. Use the four inner motor drivers with H-bridge support for bi-directional current flow.

Find suitable tires to fit onto the motor shaft, one with good traction and approximately 40mm diameter.

Flash the flight controller with the rover codes I created, which can be found on GitHub.

Use the Pluto App available on iOS and Android App stores for flashing and driving the rover.