CAD and Modeling of an ESP32-controlled tank-drive car|
This is a mini car, that uses a 9.6V NI-MH Rechargeable Battery Pack, ESP32, 2 TT motors, an L298N Driver, and a 3D printed body.
I made this project as I found XRP's to be very expensive, at $115. While this is justified for some FIRST Robotics teams who use it as coding practice, as a drivetrain focused on beginners, I believe this is unnessesary. The XRP featuring a no-tools, no-soldering assembly process and a suite of components including a Raspberry Pi Pico W microcontroller, an inertial measurement unit (IMU), motor drivers, and various sensors. The inclusion of the Raspberry Pi Pico W enables wireless connectivity and compatibility with a range of programming environments, from block-based coding for novices to Python and Arduino for more advanced users. However, for the typical beginner or hobbyist interested mainly in hands-on mechanical learning and straightforward driving tasks, such advanced features are often unnecessary. Most entry-level users are not leveraging WPILib or practicing the development of precise autonomous routines, which are more relevant to competitive robotics teams. This project is a much cheaper, easier to reproduce version of the XRP that can be expanded still.
| Item No. | Product Name | Amazon Link | Quantity | Cost (USD) | Notes | Running Total (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ESP-WROOM-32 | Link | 1 | $15.99 | Main microcontroller with WiFi + Bluetooth | $15.99 |
| 2 | HiLetgo L298N Motor Driver Module | Link | 1 | $11.49 | Motor driver for controlling DC motors | $27.48 |
| 3 | 12V to 5V 3A 15W Step-Down Power Supply | Link | 1 | $7.99 | Provides stable power conversion | $35.47 |
| 4 | TT Motor Dual DC 3-6V | Link | 1 | $9.99 | Compact motor for drivetrain | $45.46 |
| 5 | GEILIENERGY 7.2V 3000mAh NiMH Battery Pack | Link | 1 | $14.79 | Main power source for motors | $60.25 |
| 6 | Tamiya Connector Adapter Cable | Link | 1 | $7.98 | Connects battery to wires | $68.23 |
| 7 | Overture Black PLA | Link | 1 | $14.99 | Filament for 3D Printer | $83.22 |
| 8 | ELEGOO 120pcs Multicolored Dupont Wire | Link | 1 | $6.98 | Wires for robot | $90.20 |
| 9 | BNTECHGO Flexible Conductor Wire | Link | 1 | $9.98 | Wires | $100.18 |
| 10 | Wire Connectors | Link | 1 | $8.99 | Connect the wires without having to solder | $109.17 |
| 11 | Multifunctional Data Cable Storage Box Adaptor | Link | 1 | $4.99 | Universal Data Transfer Cable (Black) | $114.16 |
| Subtotal | $114.16 | |||||
| NJ Sales Tax (6.625%) | $7.56 | |||||
| Total Cost | $121.72 |