Autonomous Robot Snow Plow

Project Description

The Snow Shoveling Robot was developed as an embedded systems project aimed at designing a semi-autonomous robot capable of clearing snow from sidewalks and driveways. The robot uses a combination of sensors, actuators, and real-time embedded control to navigate and perform snow removal while minimizing human intervention. Equipped with an ultrasonic distance sensor, joystick controls, and a servo-driven plow, the system was designed to assist individuals in snow-prone areas by providing a safer, more efficient alternative to manual shoveling.

Initially developed at full scale, the team iterated on several designs before pivoting to a smaller, more controllable model for reliable testing and execution. The robot was built around an Arduino Mega 2560 microcontroller and used real-time object detection and feedback control to prevent collisions—mimicking automotive ABS-style obstacle avoidance. Through multiple rounds of hardware integration, software testing, and mechanical adjustments, the robot successfully executed manual snow plowing with obstacle detection and servo actuation for the plow mechanism.

Project Accomplishments

Designed and built a functional robotic snow plow capable of moving, steering, and lifting/lowering its shovel using servo motors.
Implemented real-time embedded system logic using finite state machines (FSMs) to manage behavior transitions (idle, move, turn, plow).
Developed distance-based obstacle detection using ultrasonic sensors and LED indicators, mimicking an automatic braking system (ABS).
Successfully integrated joystick controls for full manual drive and directional control.
Created two prototype versions, including a full-scale chassis and a compact version used for final testing and demonstrations.
Validated system responsiveness, timing of sensor inputs, and safe stopping mechanisms through timed tests and real-world simulations.

Personal Contributions

Mechanical & Electrical Lead

I was responsible for the entire mechanical and electrical design, including chassis layout, component mounting, wiring, and motor system setup.

Architecture Design

I designed the high-level system architecture, mapping out how the microcontroller, sensors, motor drivers, and actuators would interface for real-time control.

Component Sourcing:

I selected and sourced the motors, motor shields, servo systems, sensors, and wiring hardware to meet project specifications and constraints.

ROS Programming Exploration

I developed the initial control system using ROS (Robot Operating System) for serial communication between the Raspberry Pi and robot hardware. Although full ROS-based joystick control wasn't implemented due to hardware limitations, the ROS communication pipeline was functional for directional control.

Prototyping & Assembly

I contributed heavily to the hands-on building and assembly, ensuring each iteration was mechanically sound and electronically safe.

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