The Raspberry Pi in robotics is a brilliant combine—however what occurs if the equipment you ordered doesn’t assist the Pi? You get artistic like maker and developer WallComputer, after all! On this Raspberry Pi Zumo undertaking, they’ve transformed the traditional Pololu Arduino Zumo equipment to assist the newest Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W.
This tiny robotic makes use of tank-like treads to get round, which offer the traction wanted for Sumo robots designed to push one another round. Historically one of these robotic is managed by an Arduino Uno, however this model makes use of each a Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W and an STM32 microcontroller with a little bit assist from a few customized PCBs. To see how a lot has been modified, check out the unique product itemizing for the Zumo equipment over at Pololu’s web site. This modification was not solely needed to make use of the Pi, but additionally so as to add further options like a chargeable battery pack.
WallComputer has a knack for microelectronics as demonstrated in his GitHub undertaking historical past which incorporates issues like this temperature, stress and humidity monitoring undertaking. Nevertheless, this undertaking is arguably probably the most concerned creations they’ve shared to this point subsequent to the tinyDeck, a pocket-sized Pi Zero 2 W-powered private PC.
Recreating this undertaking is feasible largely partially resulting from WallComputers resolution to make the schematics open-source. Customized PCBs had been developed for a LiPo charger and enhance converter in addition to the board supporting the Pi Zero 2 W and STM32G030C8T6 microcontroller. This STM32 controller is liable for offering energy to the Pi, controlling the servos, speaking with the sensor array, LEDs, buttons and extra.
The {hardware} recordsdata for the PCBs and customized mounting plate that helps the Pi-based PCB can be found on the official undertaking web page over at Hackster. Whereas WallComputer had these boards printed by way of JLCPCB, customers can have them printed wherever and even modify them additional to go well with their very own undertaking wants. Customers may also check out the Pi-powered Zumo code at GitHub.
If you wish to make this Raspberry Pi undertaking your self, your greatest wager is to discover the Pi-powered Zumo undertaking web page at Hackster for a full breakdown of its development. You can even observe WallComputer for extra cool initiatives in addition to any future updates on this one.