How to Build a Gesture Controlled Robot

Create your own gesture-controlled robot with this step-by-step guide, using a sensor to detect hand gestures and control a wheeled robot’s movement. Includes materials, interactive instructions, video tutorials, troubleshooting tips, customization ideas, and a project gallery.

Project Outcome

By completing this project, you’ll build a fully functional gesture-controlled robot that moves forward, backward, left, or right based on hand gestures detected by a sensor. This Arduino-based project introduces I2C communication, motor control, and sensor data processing.

  • Build Skills: Master sensor integration, motor control, and Arduino programming.
  • Customize: Add features like Bluetooth control, LED feedback, or advanced gestures.
  • Learn: Gain hands-on experience in robotics and gesture-based control.

Perfect for beginners and hobbyists interested in robotics and automation!

Gesture-controlled robot in action

What You'll Learn

🔧

Robot Assembly

Learn to build a wheeled robot chassis.

📡

Gesture Detection

Master reading sensor data for gestures.

💻

Arduino Programming

Write code to control motors via gestures.

🛠️

Problem-Solving

Debug sensor and motor issues.

🤖

Robotics Concepts

Understand gesture-based control systems.

Required Materials

Arduino (1)

Main controller

Sensors (1)

Gesture sensor

Motors (2)

DC motors for movement

Motor Driver (1)

Motor control

Chassis (1)

Robot body with wheels

Wires (Assorted)

Connections

Breadboard (1)

For prototyping

Battery (1)

Power supply (9V or AA pack)

Video Tutorials

Overview of Gesture Controlled Robot Build

Troubleshooting Tips

MPU6050 Not Detecting Gestures

Check I2C connections, ensure proper library installation, and verify sensor address in code.

Motors Not Moving

Confirm motor driver wiring, check battery voltage, and verify PWM pin assignments.

Robot Moves Erratically

Calibrate MPU6050 sensor, adjust gesture thresholds in code, and check for loose connections.

No Response to Gestures

Ensure sensor is powered, check serial monitor for data, and verify gesture mapping logic.

Customization Ideas

+Bluetooth Control

Add a Bluetooth module for remote gesture control via a smartphone app.

Bluetooth-controlled robot

+LED Feedback

Incorporate LEDs to indicate gesture detection or robot direction.

Robot with LED feedback

+Advanced Gestures

Program complex gesture patterns for actions like speed control or turns.

Robot with advanced gestures
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Join us for an exciting adventure into the world of robotics and coding! Our Robotics and Coding Class for Kids is designed to inspire young minds, foster creativity, and ignite a passion for technology.

Contact Info

Email

info@kod2kids.com