AI Assisted Motorized Trolley.

Digital/Analog Circuit
Microcontroller Programming
Power Electronic
May-Jun 2024

Revived a shorted hoverboard inverter by troubleshooting voltage regulators and designing a low voltage cutoff system. Built a custom ESP8266 transmitter/receiver along with an android-based object-recognition AI mobile assistant.

Project Details

This project demonstrates the creative reuse of recycled hardware to develop a motorized trolley that integrates wireless control and AI-driven capabilities. The system is built using components from an old drone controller and two damaged smart plugs. 

Control of the trolley is handled through an Arduino-based system that reads joystick inputs from the drone controller while the ESP8266 radio module handles the wireless communication. A mode switch allows the user to alternate between wireless joystick control and an AI-assisted app. In AI mode, the app sends signals via USB to a second Arduino, enabling advanced functionality.

One standout feature is the AI-powered person detection system. A smartphone mounted on the trolley uses the app to recognize and track a person in front of the cart. Once a person is detected, the trolley autonomously follows them, adjusting its speed and direction to keep the person in view of the camera, ensuring continuous tracking.

To enhance cost efficiency, a low-pass filter was used to convert fast DC pulses into smooth analog signals, enabling reliable motor control and smooth operation of the trolley.

What I Did

  • Redesigned the High Voltage/Low Voltage Power Distribution System along with a custom Low Pass Filter(LPF) communication circuit for the inverter.
  • Programmed the Arduino/ESP8266 transmitter and receiver
  • Designed the wooden structure and the electrical system layout for the trolley
  • Configured the android app for the AI assistant feature