Robots - Evolving from One sensor to two sensors in Line Following robot

 

Line Following with Mindstorms EV3: One Sensor vs. Two Sensors

There are pros and cons to using one or two sensors for your Mindstorms EV3 line following robot. Here's a breakdown to help you decide:

One Sensor:

Pros:

• Simpler Build: Requires only one sensor, which saves parts and reduces complexity.
• Easier Programming: Coding for a single sensor is generally more straightforward, especially for beginners.

Cons:

• Zig-Zag Movement: The robot tends to follow the line in a zig-zag pattern, constantly adjusting to stay centered.
• Less Stable: Prone to losing the line on curves or uneven surfaces due to overcorrection.
• Calibration Needed: Requires some calibration to find the ideal light value threshold for the line.

Two Sensors:

Pros:

• Smoother Line Following: The robot can achieve a smoother path by comparing the readings from two sensors.
• More Robust: Handles curves and uneven surfaces better due to the combined sensor data.
• Less Calibration: May require less calibration compared to a single sensor approach.

Cons:

• More Complex Build: Needs two sensors, increasing parts and potentially build complexity.
• More Programming Complexity: Coding for two sensors can be more involved, especially for advanced techniques like PID control.

Here's a quick recommendation:

• Start with One Sensor: If you're new to line following, it's a great way to learn the basics of programming and sensor use. Tutorials for one-sensor robots are readily available online [WEB MINDSTORMS line following with 1 color sensor].
• Move to Two Sensors Later: Once comfortable, consider using two sensors for improved performance and explore more advanced line following techniques. Resources for two-sensor robots exist as well [WEB 2 Sensor PID Line Follower].

Remember: The best approach depends on your project goals and skill level. You can always experiment with both configurations to see which works best for your specific line and robot design.

Building a Line Following Robot - Using EV3 Mindstorm - Creating a support wheel

 Here are some ideas for using a 3rd wheel with your LEGO Mindstorms EV3 robot:

Improved Maneuverability:

• Omni-wheel: Add a 3rd omni-wheel (a wheel that can spin freely in all directions) in the center of your robot. This allows for improved maneuverability, letting your robot move sideways and diagonally in addition to forwards and backwards. This is useful for tasks like navigating tight spaces or lining up with objects.

Increased Stability:

• Caster wheel: Attach a free-spinning caster wheel at the back of your robot. This provides extra stability, especially when carrying heavier objects or navigating uneven terrain. The caster wheel passively adjusts to keep the robot balanced.

Multi-functionality:

• Articulating wheel: Design a system where the 3rd wheel can be raised or lowered using a servo motor. This allows your robot to switch between different modes. For example, the robot could use two wheels for normal driving and then lower a 3rd powered wheel for climbing obstacles.

Specialized Tasks:

• Gripper wheel: Build a custom 3rd wheel that functions as a gripper or manipulator arm. This could be useful for tasks like picking up objects or manipulating levers.

Here are some additional tips for using a 3rd wheel with your Mindstorms EV3 robot:

• Placement: Consider the placement of the 3rd wheel for optimal functionality. Center placement is ideal for omni-wheels and casters, while the back is better for manipulator wheels.
• Motor selection: Choose a motor powerful enough to handle the additional load, especially if the 3rd wheel is powered or used for gripping.
• Programming: The coding for the 3rd wheel will depend on its function. For omni-wheels, you might need to adjust steering algorithms. For manipulator wheels, you'll need code to control the servo motor.

Remember, these are just a few ideas to get you started. There are many other creative ways to use a 3rd wheel with your Mindstorms EV3 robot!