Maze
Maze
A PROJECT REPORT
Submitted by
KAVIPRIYAN.R 211422245022
of
BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY
in
SIGNATURE SIGNATURE
Dr.B.ANNI PRINCY M.E., Ph.D., Dr.D.SASIKUMAR,M.E.,MBA.,Ph.D.,
HEAD OF THE DEPARTMENT SUPERVISOR
PROFESSOR ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR,
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND
MACHINE LEARNING, MACHINE LEARNING,
PANIMALAR ENGINEERING PANIMALAR ENGINEERING
COLLEGE, COLLEGE,
NAZARATHPETTAI, NAZARATHPETTAI,
POONAMALLEE, POONAMALLEE,
CHENNAI- 600123. CHENNAI- 600123.
Certified that the above candidate(s) was/ were examined in the End Semester Mini
We would like to extend our heartfelt and sincere thanks to our Directors Tmt.
C.VIJAYARAJESWARI, Dr. C. SAKTHIKUMAR, M.E., Ph.D., and
Dr.SARANYASREE SAKTHIKUMAR B.E., M.B.A., Ph.D., for providing us with the
necessary facilities for completion of this project.
We also express our gratitude to our Principal Dr.K.MANI, M.E., Ph.D., for his timely
concern and encouragement provided to us throughout the course.
We thank the HOD of AI&ML Department, Dr. B. ANNI PRINCY, M.E., Ph.D.,
Professor, for the support extended throughout the project.
We would like to thank our supervisor Dr. D.SASIKUMAR, M.E., MBA., Ph.D.,
Associate Professor and all the faculty members of the Department of CCE for their advice
and suggestions for the successful completion of the project.
KAMALA KANNAN.S
KAVIPRIYAN.R
SUDHARSANA KABILESH S.S
KOLLU BHARGAV
ii
ABSTRACT
autonomous mobile robot that uses an efficient algorithm to navigate and find the best
path through a maze. It uses an Arduino microcontroller, ultrasonic and infrared sensors,
and DC motors to detect obstacles and make navigational decisions. The robot uses the
environments.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABSTRACT iii
LIST OF FIGURES 3
1 INTRODUCTION 4
1.1 OVERVIEW 4
2 LITERATURE SURVEY 12
3 SYSTEM DESIGN 14
CONSIDERATIONS
1
3.5 FUNCTIONAL FLOW 23
5 SAMPLE CODING 30
6.1 CONCLUSION 37
7 REFERENCES 41
2
LIST OF FIGURES
3
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
1.1 OVERVIEW
4
the most optimal path by calculating movement costs and heuristic values, ensuring
that the navigation process is both intelligent and adaptable.
This project is designed to be cost-effective, scalable, and highly efficient, making
it an ideal platform for a variety of real-world applications. In warehouse
automation, similar robots can be deployed for autonomous inventory management
and navigation in confined spaces. Additionally, the system can be adapted for
robotics competitions, where autonomous pathfinding and obstacle avoidance are
key challenges. Furthermore, it serves as a research tool for AI-based navigation,
allowing students and professionals to experiment with advanced path-planning
algorithms and real-time decision-making techniques.
The Maze-Solving Robot demonstrates the seamless integration of
sensor-based perception, algorithm-driven intelligence, and precise motion
control, highlighting the potential of autonomous systems in real-world
applications. By combining affordability with advanced functionality, the proposed
system not only provides a strong foundation for robotics education and research but
also paves the way for future innovations in autonomous navigation, AI-driven
robotics, and intelligent automation.
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1.2.1 MATERIALS AND METHODS
The development of the maze-solving robot requires a combination of hardware
and software components. The materials used include:
1. Arduino Uno: The central microcontroller that processes sensor data and
controls motor movements.
2. L298N Motor Driver: Enables bidirectional movement control for the DC
motors.
3. Ultrasonic Sensors (HC-SR04): Detects walls and obstacles.
4. Infrared Sensors: Assists in line following and detecting turns.
5. Rechargeable Li-ion Batteries (18650): Provides power to the system.
6. Chassis and Wheels: Structural foundation of the robot.
The methodology involves designing the robot’s hardware layout, implementing
the A* algorithm in software, and testing the system in different maze environments
to analyse efficiency and accuracy.
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The proposed system leverages an Arduino-based control system, real-time
sensor feedback, and the A* algorithm to navigate efficiently through a maze while
autonomously adapting to obstacles. Traditional maze-solving robots often rely on
predefined paths or basic reactive mechanisms, which limits their ability to
dynamically respond to environmental changes.
This system addresses such limitations by incorporating intelligent decision-
making, efficient obstacle detection, and optimal path planning. The combination of
these features makes the robot well-suited for research, education and practical
autonomous navigation applications.
1. The algorithm prioritizes paths with the shortest estimated distance to the
exit.
2. It dynamically recalculates alternative routes in case of unexpected
obstacles.
3. The heuristic function ensures that unnecessary detours are avoided,
improving speed and efficiency.
This intelligent approach to path planning ensures that the robot navigates
efficiently, avoiding loops or redundant movements.
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2. Efficient Obstacle Detection and Avoidance
The integration of ultrasonic and infrared (IR) sensors enhances the robot’s
ability to detect and avoid obstacles in real time. Each sensor serves a specific role:
1. Ultrasonic sensors measure distances from walls and barriers, ensuring
accurate spatial awareness.
2. IR sensors provide additional detection for smaller or close-range obstacles
that ultrasonic sensors might miss.
3. The sensor fusion technique allows the robot to make accurate and reliable
decisions, reducing the risk of collisions.
With these capabilities, the robot can handle narrow pathways, sudden obstacles,
and complex maze layouts more effectively than conventional approaches.
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Unlike remote-controlled or semi-autonomous robots, this system is designed to
function without human assistance once initialized.
1. The robot autonomously detects and explores the maze environment.
2. It makes independent decisions on turns, movements, and obstacle
avoidance.
3. If new obstacles appear, the robot can recalculate and adjust its path without
external guidance.
This autonomy makes the system useful for real-world applications, such as search-
and-rescue missions, warehouse navigation, or industrial automation, where
human intervention may not always be possible.
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2. Variable speed adjustments ensure smoother transitions between
movements, reducing jerky or abrupt stops.
3. The system optimizes power consumption, ensuring longer battery life
during extended operations.
These features contribute to stable, controlled, and efficient motion, enabling the
robot to traverse a maze with minimal energy waste.
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This modularity ensures that the system remains adaptable and expandable for
more complex applications.
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CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE SURVEY
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approach, where the robot continuously learns from its environment to improve
navigation efficiency. Their research demonstrated that AI-powered robots
outperform traditional algorithm-based robots by adapting to changes in the maze
structure dynamically. However, due to the higher computational requirements of
RL models, their implementation in embedded systems remains limited.
Studies have also investigated the power efficiency and hardware limitations
of maze-solving robots. Patel et al. (2018) analyzed the energy consumption of
different motor drivers and power sources. Their findings indicated that L298N
motor drivers provide a balance between performance and efficiency, whereas
PWM-controlled motor systems can further reduce power consumption while
maintaining smooth movement.
From an application perspective, maze-solving robots have been implemented
in various fields, including industrial automation, rescue operations, and robotics
competitions. In the healthcare sector, similar robotic navigation techniques have
been employed in hospital delivery robots, where they autonomously navigate
hallways and deliver medical supplies. The relevance of such technology extends
beyond academic research, highlighting the importance of continued development
in autonomous navigation systems.
In conclusion, existing research has laid a strong foundation for maze-solving
robots, with numerous studies contributing to the improvement of pathfinding
algorithms, sensor integration, and control mechanisms. The proposed maze-solving
robot in this project leverages these advancements by integrating sensor-based
feedback with an optimized A* algorithm to enhance real-time navigation accuracy.
The findings from previous studies provide valuable insights that guide the
development and optimization of the proposed system, ensuring a balance between
efficiency, adaptability, and cost-effectiveness.
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CHAPTER 3
SYSTEM DESIGN
One of the most critical components is the Arduino Uno, which serves as the
central processing unit for the system. It gathers data from sensors, processes it in
real-time, and sends control signals to the actuators. The L298N Motor Driver
Module plays a crucial role in regulating the movement of the robot by controlling
the DC motors based on instructions from the Arduino. This allows for precise
movement adjustments necessary for efficient maze traversal.
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The hardware design includes essential components such as sensors, actuators, and
microcontrollers. The key components used in the system are:
● Arduino Uno: The primary microcontroller responsible for processing sensor
data and executing navigation algorithms.
● L298N Motor Driver Module: Used to control the speed and direction of the
DC motors based on input signals from the Arduino.
● DC Motors and Wheels: Provides movement and maneuverability to
navigate the maze.
● Ultrasonic Sensors (HC-SR03): Detects walls and obstacles by measuring
the time taken for sound waves to reflect back.
● Infrared Sensors: Helps in line detection and fine movement adjustments by
identifying black and white surfaces.
● 18650 Rechargeable Batteries: Supplies power to all components, ensuring
prolonged operation.
● Chassis: The structural frame that holds all components in place and provides
stability to the robot.
Each component is strategically placed to maximize efficiency. The sensors are
positioned at the front and sides to ensure accurate detection of walls and openings.
The motors and wheels provide the necessary movement, while the motor driver
allows bidirectional control.
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● Ultrasonic sensors and IR sensors are connected to the Arduino’s 5V
output.
● PWM signals control motor speed and turning mechanism.
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1. Sensor Data Acquisition and Filtering
To navigate effectively, the robot continuously reads data from ultrasonic and
infrared (IR) sensors. Ultrasonic sensors help in detecting obstacles and measuring
distances, while IR sensors assist in identifying walls and open paths. To improve
accuracy, sensor readings undergo filtering techniques such as moving average
filtering to minimize noise and fluctuations in data.
2. Motor Control Using PWM Signals
Motor control is achieved through Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signals.
PWM allows fine control over the speed and direction of the motors, enabling
smooth movement. The software dynamically adjusts the duty cycle of the PWM
signals based on sensor inputs, ensuring that the robot moves efficiently while
avoiding collisions. The motors are controlled using H-bridge driver circuits,
allowing forward and reverse movement as needed.
3. Navigation Algorithm Implementation
A crucial aspect of the software is its ability to navigate through a maze. The
robot employs the A (A-star) pathfinding algorithm*, which is widely used in
robotics for determining the most efficient path. This algorithm evaluates different
possible routes and selects the one with the lowest cost based on distance and
estimated movement difficulty. The heuristic function used in A* enables the robot
to make intelligent decisions while exploring the maze.
4. Obstacle Avoidance and Path Planning
While moving through the maze, the robot continuously checks for obstacles
in its path. If an obstacle is detected, the software recalculates the optimal route in
real-time, ensuring that the robot does not get stuck. The system prioritizes paths
that lead towards the goal while avoiding unnecessary detours.
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5. Decision-Making Process
The decision-making process relies on input from multiple sensors and pre-
defined logic rules. If the robot detects an open path, it proceeds forward; if multiple
paths are available, it selects the optimal one based on the A* algorithm. In cases
where all paths are blocked, the robot initiates a backtracking mechanism to find an
alternative route.
6. Serial Communication for Debugging
For real-time monitoring and debugging, the software includes serial
communication via the Arduino's serial port. This feature enables developers to
receive live sensor readings, motor commands, and navigation decisions on a
computer. The debug information helps in fine-tuning sensor thresholds and
improving the robot’s decision-making accuracy.
7. Software Modularity and Code Structure
The software is designed using a modular approach, ensuring that different
components (such as sensor handling, motor control, and path planning) operate
independently while interacting through well-defined interfaces. This modularity
enhances code maintainability and scalability, allowing easy modifications and
upgrades.
8. Error Handling and Fault Tolerance
To ensure robustness, the software includes error-handling mechanisms. If a
sensor fails or returns inconsistent data, the system either re-reads the sensor or uses
redundant data from other sensors to make decisions. Additionally, watchdog timers
are implemented to reset the system in case of unexpected failures, preventing
software crashes.
9. Optimization for Performance and Efficiency
To improve performance, the code is optimized for real-time execution.
Unnecessary delays are avoided, and efficient data structures are used to reduce
memory consumption. The software prioritizes fast computations to ensure the robot
responds quickly to environmental changes.
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10. Future Enhancements and Upgradability
The software is designed to accommodate future enhancements. Additional
sensors, improved path-planning algorithms, or machine-learning techniques can be
integrated without requiring a complete overhaul of the existing system. This
flexibility makes the robot adaptable to more complex navigation challenges.
Overall, the software plays a vital role in ensuring that the robot can navigate
efficiently, avoid obstacles, and reach its destination using intelligent decision-
making processes.
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Strategic placement of ultrasonic and infrared sensors is crucial for accurate
environmental perception.
• Front-facing sensors detect obstacles and walls directly ahead.
• Side-mounted sensors help identify pathways, ensuring precise turning and
alignment within the maze.
• Downward-facing sensors (if used) assist in detecting floor markings or
sudden drops.
Proper positioning ensures that the sensors have a clear field of view, reducing blind
spots and enhancing obstacle detection accuracy. The mounting angles of ultrasonic
sensors are fine-tuned to maximize range and minimize interference from
reflections.
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The robot employs a differential drive system, meaning each wheel can move
at independent speeds to enable smooth turns. By varying the speed and direction
of the wheels, the robot can efficiently perform:
• Straight-line movement by driving both wheels forward at equal speed.
• Smooth turns by varying the speeds of each wheel.
• On-the-spot rotation (pivot turns), useful in confined maze spaces.
This system ensures precise maneuverability, allowing the robot to navigate
corners and intersections effectively.
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performance in maze navigation. Additionally, considerations for durability,
wiring organization, and expandability make the robot well-suited for long-term
use and potential future enhancements.
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1. Initialization
At the start of the process, the robot is positioned at the entry point of the
maze. The system initializes by activating all its sensors, including ultrasonic and
infrared sensors, to begin scanning the surroundings. The Arduino microcontroller
also verifies the power supply, motor drivers, and communication between
components to ensure the system is ready for operation. This step ensures that the
robot starts with a stable and fully functional setup.
2. Sensor Data Processing
Once initialized, the robot begins gathering real-time data from its sensors.
Ultrasonic sensors detect the distance to walls and obstacles, while infrared
sensors help identify path boundaries and intersections. This data is continuously
processed by the Arduino microcontroller, which determines available paths and
potential dead ends. By accurately detecting its surroundings, the robot ensures
precise navigation through the maze.
3. Decision-Making Algorithm
After collecting sensor data, the robot employs the A* algorithm to decide the
most efficient direction. This algorithm considers multiple factors, such as distance
to the exit, available paths, and obstacle positions, to determine the shortest and
safest route. The heuristic function in A* ensures that the robot makes intelligent
decisions, avoiding unnecessary movements and optimizing travel time. The
decision-making process is continuously updated based on real-time sensor
feedback.
4. Movement Execution
Once an optimal direction is chosen, the robot adjusts its motor speed and
direction accordingly. The L298N Motor Driver Module controls the DC motors,
enabling smooth movement and precise turns. Depending on the maze’s layout, the
robot may move forward, turn left, turn right, or stop momentarily to reassess its
path. The ability to dynamically adjust movement ensures efficient navigation and
prevents collisions with walls or obstacles.
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5. Path Optimization
As the robot progresses, it continuously refines its path to ensure the shortest
possible route to the exit. By re-evaluating sensor data and updating the A
algorithm’s calculations, the robot can adapt to changes and avoid unnecessary
detours.
This optimization process improves efficiency and ensures that the robot
navigates the maze in the fastest way possible. If the robot encounters a dead-end, it
retraces its steps and selects an alternate route, ensuring successful completion of
the task.
6. Completion
Once the robot detects the exit point of the maze, it stops all movement and
logs its final path. This data can be stored for further analysis, allowing
improvements to be made for future runs. The successful completion of the maze
demonstrates the effectiveness of the robot’s hardware components, sensor-based
navigation, and pathfinding algorithms. This final step confirms that the robot has
efficiently solved the maze using autonomous decision-making and real-time path
optimization.
In conclusion, the functional flow of the Maze-Solving Robot follows a
logical and structured sequence, ensuring efficient navigation, obstacle
avoidance, and pathfinding. By combining sensor data processing, decision-
making algorithms, and real-time movement execution, the robot achieves
autonomous operation with minimal errors. This approach not only optimizes maze-
solving performance but also lays the groundwork for future applications in
autonomous robotics and AI-based navigation systems.
The system design ensures efficient integration of hardware and software
components for smooth navigation. The robot’s ability to dynamically adjust its
path makes it an effective solution for real-world maze-solving applications.
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Fig 2: MAZE SOLVING ROBOT FLOW DIAGRAM
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CHAPTER 4
The robot begins at the entry point of the maze. Using its ultrasonic and
infrared sensors, it performs an initial scan of its surroundings to detect obstacles,
walls, and open spaces. The A* algorithm begins by setting the starting node as the
initial point, and the robot stores this in memory as the open list—a collection of
nodes yet to be evaluated. The cost function (f(n)) is calculated for each node, where
the f(n) value is the sum of g(n) (the cost to reach the node) and h(n) (the estimated
cost to reach the goal, based on a heuristic).
As the robot moves forward, it continuously gathers data from its sensors to
detect nearby obstacles. The robot uses its ultrasonic sensors to measure distances
to walls or barriers and IR sensors to detect the presence of obstacles at shorter
ranges. The data gathered allows the robot to make informed decisions about the
path ahead, adjusting its movement to avoid collisions. Any path that is blocked or
obstructed is marked as a closed node, preventing the robot from revisiting it.
As the robot moves, it keeps track of the paths it has already traveled. This is
essential for ensuring that it does not revisit areas unnecessarily. The A* algorithm
continuously evaluates the open nodes—each representing a possible step forward—
and calculates the f(n) value for each. If a valid path exists, the robot moves in that
direction, updates its internal memory, and marks the new node as visited. This
prevents redundant exploration and ensures that the robot's navigation is efficient.
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4. Dead-End Detection and Backtracking
At any point, if the robot encounters a dead-end or finds that all possible
moves are blocked, it triggers a backtracking mechanism. The robot retraces its steps
to the most recent junction and chooses an alternate path that has not been fully
explored. The A* algorithm plays a critical role in this process by recalculating the
best route based on updated environmental data. It also updates its open list and
continues evaluating new paths, ensuring that the robot does not waste time retracing
steps without purpose.
Throughout its journey, the robot continuously updates its memory map. This
memory map stores information about walls, obstacles, and explored paths, allowing
the robot to efficiently calculate the most promising routes. Each time the robot
discovers a new obstacle or a viable path, it updates the map and recalculates the
f(n) values for all open nodes. This ensures that the algorithm always operates with
the most current data, allowing the robot to adapt to changing conditions in real-
time.
The core of the A* algorithm lies in evaluating nodes based on their cost
function f(n). The robot iterates through the open list, calculating the g(n) and h(n)
values for each possible node. The node with the lowest f(n) value is prioritized, and
the robot moves towards that node. The heuristic function h(n), which estimates the
remaining distance to the goal, plays a key role in guiding the robot toward the exit.
As the robot explores, the algorithm ensures that it is always moving towards the
optimal solution.
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8. Shortest Path Determination
After exploring the maze and evaluating all possible paths, the A* algorithm
determines the shortest and most efficient route from the entry point to the exit. The
algorithm considers factors such as the distance to obstacles, available open paths,
and the estimated cost to reach the goal. The robot then selects the path with the
lowest f(n) value and proceeds towards the exit.
Once the shortest path has been identified, the robot begins executing the final
navigation plan. Using motor control algorithms, it moves step-by-step along the
calculated route, avoiding obstacles and adjusting its course as needed. The robot
continues to reference its memory map and sensor data to ensure that it remains on
track. The A* algorithm continuously re-evaluates its path during execution,
ensuring that the robot’s movements are as efficient as possible.
Once the robot reaches the exit, the A* algorithm confirms that the goal has
been reached, and the robot stops its movement. Throughout the process, the A*
algorithm has ensured that the robot’s navigation was optimal, accounting for
dynamic changes and obstacles while avoiding unnecessary detours. In the event of
a failure or unexpected challenge, the algorithm is capable of recalculating the path,
ensuring that the robot always has an up-to-date and efficient strategy to complete
its task.
CHAPTER 5
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SAMPLE CODING
CODE:
#include <Arduino.h>
// Grid Settings
#define GRID_SIZE 10
#define WALL_DISTANCE 15 // cm
#define MAX_STACK 50 // Limit for backtracking
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// Position Tracking
int posX = 0, posY = 0;
int goalX = GRID_SIZE - 1, goalY = GRID_SIZE - 1;
// Movement Tracking
struct Position {
int x, y;
};
Position pathStack[MAX_STACK];
int stackIndex = 0;
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int heuristic(int x, int y) {
return abs(goalX - x) + abs(goalY - y);
}
Position popFromStack() {
if (stackIndex > 0) {
stackIndex--;
return pathStack[stackIndex];
}
return {posX, posY}; // Default to current position
}
// Move Functions
void moveForward() {
analogWrite(ENA, 150);
analogWrite(ENB, 150);
digitalWrite(IN1, HIGH);
digitalWrite(IN2, LOW);
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digitalWrite(IN3, HIGH);
digitalWrite(IN4, LOW);
delay(500);
posY++;
}
void turnRight() {
analogWrite(ENA, 150);
analogWrite(ENB, 150);
digitalWrite(IN1, LOW);
digitalWrite(IN2, HIGH);
digitalWrite(IN3, HIGH);
digitalWrite(IN4, LOW);
delay(400);
posX++;
}
void turnLeft() {
analogWrite(ENA, 150);
analogWrite(ENB, 150);
digitalWrite(IN1, HIGH);
digitalWrite(IN2, LOW);
digitalWrite(IN3, LOW);
digitalWrite(IN4, HIGH);
delay(400);
posX--;
}
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void turnBack() {
analogWrite(ENA, 150);
analogWrite(ENB, 150);
digitalWrite(IN1, LOW);
digitalWrite(IN2, HIGH);
digitalWrite(IN3, LOW);
digitalWrite(IN4, HIGH);
delay(700);
}
// Stop Motors
void stopMotors() {
digitalWrite(IN1, LOW);
digitalWrite(IN2, LOW);
digitalWrite(IN3, LOW);
digitalWrite(IN4, LOW);
}
// A* with Backtracking
void aStarNavigate() {
while (posX != goalX || posY != goalY) {
int frontDist = getDistance(trigFront, echoFront);
int leftDist = getDistance(trigLeft, echoLeft);
int rightDist = getDistance(trigRight, echoRight);
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if (frontDist < WALL_DISTANCE) maze[posX][posY + 1] = 1;
if (leftDist < WALL_DISTANCE) maze[posX - 1][posY] = 1;
if (rightDist < WALL_DISTANCE) maze[posX + 1][posY] = 1;
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turnLeft();
} else if (lastPos.x > posX) {
turnRight();
} else if (lastPos.y < posY) {
turnBack();
}
posX = lastPos.x;
posY = lastPos.y;
}
}
}
void setup() {
Serial.begin(9600);
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CHAPTER 6
CONCLUSION AND FUTURE WORK
6.1 CONCLUSION
The Maze-Solving Robot project successfully demonstrated the
integration of Arduino-based control systems, sensor-based navigation, and
pathfinding algorithms to achieve efficient autonomous navigation. The robot
effectively detected obstacles, mapped the maze, and determined the shortest path
using an optimized A and A* algorithm . By combining ultrasonic and infrared
sensors, the system was able to make real-time decisions and adjust movement
dynamically.
The Maze-Solving Robot project successfully showcased the seamless
integration of Arduino-based control systems, sensor technology, and advanced
pathfinding algorithms. By leveraging the capabilities of both ultrasonic and infrared
sensors, the robot effectively navigated through a complex maze, demonstrating its
ability to make autonomous decisions. The combination of hardware and software
allowed for precise detection of obstacles and efficient movement, ensuring a high
level of accuracy in the robot’s navigation.
One of the key achievements of this project was the implementation of
optimized A and A* algorithms for pathfinding. These algorithms enabled the robot
to determine the most efficient route within the maze, reducing the overall travel
time and enhancing its ability to adapt to dynamic environments. By analyzing
different paths and computing the shortest route, the system proved its efficiency in
solving mazes autonomously.
The use of ultrasonic and infrared sensors played a crucial role in real-time
obstacle detection and navigation. Ultrasonic sensors provided accurate distance
measurements, while infrared sensors assisted in detecting maze boundaries and
walls. The combination of these sensors allowed the robot to avoid collisions and
adjust its movement dynamically, ensuring smooth and effective navigation
throughout the maze.
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Furthermore, the Arduino-based control system provided a reliable and
flexible platform for managing the robot’s movements and decision-making
processes. The microcontroller efficiently processed sensor data and executed
commands in real time, demonstrating the effectiveness of embedded systems in
robotics applications. This project highlights the importance of integrating hardware
and software for autonomous robotic solutions.
The success of this maze-solving robot opens doors for further enhancements
and applications in the field of autonomous navigation. Future improvements could
include the integration of machine learning techniques for adaptive decision-making,
improved mapping capabilities, and enhanced sensor fusion to handle more complex
environments. These advancements would make the robot even more efficient and
versatile in real-world scenarios.
This project serves as a valuable demonstration of robotics, artificial
intelligence, and embedded systems working in harmony to achieve autonomous
navigation. The integration of sensors, pathfinding algorithms, and real-time
decision-making mechanisms successfully enabled the robot to navigate and solve
the maze efficiently. This research contributes to the growing field of autonomous
robotics and sets the foundation for future innovations in intelligent navigation
systems.
Throughout the development and testing phase, the robot consistently
exhibited high accuracy in path optimization, effectively solving mazes of varying
complexity. The experimental results confirmed that the combination of A
pathfinding with backtracking* provided an effective balance between
computational efficiency and real-world applicability. The robot was able to
autonomously navigate through unknown environments, showcasing the potential of
autonomous robotic systems in real-world scenarios.
This project also validated the feasibility of using embedded systems for
autonomous robotics applications, showcasing the potential for future
advancements in industrial automation, rescue operations, and AI-based robotics
research. The robot’s performance was evaluated through various test cases, proving
its capability to adapt to different maze layouts and successfully reach the goal. The
integration of both hardware and software components in a compact, low-cost
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solution highlights the potential for further enhancements in autonomous navigation
technology.
Despite the successful implementation, some challenges were encountered,
including occasional sensor inaccuracies, motor calibration issues, and
environmental variations affecting obstacle detection. Addressing these challenges
further reinforces the importance of precise calibration and adaptive learning models
in autonomous robotics.
In summary, this project provided a comprehensive insight into the design,
implementation, and optimization of a maze-solving robot. The findings from this
study contribute to the broader field of robotics, artificial intelligence, and
automation, encouraging further exploration in autonomous robotic navigation.
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● Self-Improving Navigation System: Implementing adaptive AI models that
analyze previous navigation data to optimize future performance, reducing
errors in real-time.
● Obstacle Recognition & Avoidance Enhancement: Using LIDAR or 3D
depth sensors can significantly improve object detection and enable the robot
to operate efficiently in dynamic environments.
By addressing these areas, the project can evolve into a more intelligent,
autonomous, and adaptive robotic system, contributing to the advancement of
robotics and embedded system technologies.
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Press, 2018.
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[10] OpenCV Documentation, “Computer Vision-Based Robot Navigation,”
Available: https://docs.opencv.org/, Accessed: March 2024.
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