Abstract:

This project presents the design and implementation of an autonomous ball-throwing machine tailored for sports training and gameplay enhancement, particularly in cricket and soccer. The machine incorporates various hardware components, including an Arduino UNO microcontroller, two DC motors for ball throwing, a 4DOF robotic arm with two servo motors for picking and throwing operations, an IR sensor for ball detection, and a motor speed controller for regulating motor speed. The system is designed to autonomously detect and pick up balls placed in front of the IR sensor using the robotic arm, and then throw them using the DC motors. The Arduino UNO serves as the central control unit, orchestrating the operation of all components. The software design involves coding and programming the Arduino UNO using the Arduino IDE, implementing algorithms for motor control, sensor interfacing, and robotic arm movement. Additionally, circuit diagrams and schematic representations of the hardware setup are created using Fritzing software. The project aims to provide a versatile solution for automating ball-throwing actions in various sports scenarios, contributing to sports training and gameplay innovation.

Methodology:

Firstly, we need to define the specific requirements and objectives of the project. This includes determining the desired throwing distances, ball sizes, and target sports for which the machine will be used. Additionally, we need to identify any specific functionalities required, such as adjustable throwing angles or variable throwing speeds. With the requirements in mind, we proceed to select the appropriate components for the hardware design. This includes the Arduino UNO microcontroller as the central control unit, DC motors for ball throwing mechanisms, a 4DOF robotic arm for the picking mechanism, servo motors for precise movement control, an IR sensor for ball detection, and other necessary components like a motor speed controller and power supply. We also gather materials such as PVC board, glue sticks, grips, and jumper wires for construction. Next, we start the hardware design process by creating a mechanical structure for the ball-throwing machine. This involves designing the base, arm, and gripper mechanism to ensure stability, accuracy, and reliability during operation. We integrate the DC motors and servo motors into the mechanical design, ensuring proper alignment and attachment for smooth movement. In parallel, we plan the electrical setup by connecting the components to the Arduino UNO using jumper wires. We ensure proper power supply using an 11-12 volt battery and incorporate a motor speed controller to regulate the speed and direction of the DC motors. Moving on to software development, we install the Arduino IDE for coding and programming the Arduino UNO. We write the software code to control the operation of the ball-throwing machine, implementing algorithms for motor control, sensor interfacing, and robotic arm movement. Additionally, we use Fritzing software or similar tools to create a circuit diagram and schematic representation of the hardware setup. With both hardware and software components in place, we proceed to integrate them to create a complete system. We conduct thorough testing of the machine, checking for accuracy, repeatability, and reliability of ball throwing and picking operations. Any issues or shortcomings are identified and addressed through iterative testing, adjustment of parameters, and fine-tuning of the system. Once the machine meets the desired performance level, we document the design process, hardware specifications, software code, and testing results. We create a presentation or report summarizing the project objectives, methodology, implementation details, and outcomes, including diagrams, photos, and videos to illustrate the design and operation of the automated ball-throwing machine.

Circuit Diagram :

Software Details:

Arduino IDE: The Arduino Integrated Development Environment (IDE) is the primary software tool used for coding and programming the Arduino UNO microcontroller. It provides a user-friendly interface for writing, compiling, and uploading code to the Arduino board.

Fritzing Software or Similar: Fritzing software, or a similar tool, is utilized for creating circuit diagrams and schematic representations of the hardware setup. These diagrams are essential for visualizing the connections between components, understanding the circuit layout, and troubleshooting any potential issues.

Arduino Code: The software design involves writing code in the Arduino IDE to control the operation of the automated ball throwing machine. The Arduino code includes:a. Motor Control: Code for controlling the DC motors responsible for throwing the ball. This includes commands to start, stop, and adjust the speed and direction of the motors based on user input or sensor feedback.b. Robotic Arm Control: Code for controlling the movement of the 4DOF robotic arm and servo motors. This includes commands to position the arm accurately, open and close the gripper mechanism, and execute the picking and throwing actions.c. IR Sensor Integration: Code for interfacing with the IR sensor to detect the presence of the ball. This includes instructions to trigger the robotic arm to initiate the picking process when the ball is detected in front of the sensor.d. Feedback and Error Handling: Code to provide feedback to the user, such as LED indicators or serial communication, indicating the status of the machine and any errors encountered during operation.e. Autonomous Operation: Code to implement autonomous operation of the ball throwing machine, allowing it to detect, pick, and throw balls without direct user intervention.

Testing and Debugging: The software design process also involves testing and debugging the Arduino code to ensure proper functionality and performance of the automated ball throwing machine. This includes running simulations, conducting hardware tests, and troubleshooting any issues that arise during testing.

Project Pictures

Project Demonstration

Comparison with Other projects :