Motor Driver for Raspberry Pi Robot using TB6612FNG

In this feature, I take another look at the TB6612FNG motor driver, but this time, with the Raspberry Pi instead of the Arduino. The H-Bridge module is the chosen robot driver for my Pi Wars entry effort. View this post for circuit examples and Python test code to get started with your own Robot Project. Continue reading “Motor Driver for Raspberry Pi Robot using TB6612FNG”

Pi Wars 4.0 Update – Raspberry Pi Robotics Challenge

With less than ten weeks to go for The Pi Wars 4.0 competition day, there is still much to do. I imagine it’s going to be panic time for many of the competitors. I’m still a reserve competitor, but I have already seen indications of entrants dropping out, so there is still hope for me yet. The Raspberry Pi robot vehicle software is the most challenging task to complete in my entry effort, and I believe this will be the same for many other teams as well. Continue reading “Pi Wars 4.0 Update – Raspberry Pi Robotics Challenge”

Pi Camera Video Capture with OpenCV and Python Multithreading

In this article, I install the Raspberry Pi Camera which I will be using to add camera vision to a robot. Also, to maximise the performance of OpenCV and Camera, I will be using a utility to add multithreading to the Python applications. Furthermore, I include Python demo code which also supports USB webcams. Continue reading “Pi Camera Video Capture with OpenCV and Python Multithreading”

TB6612FNG Dual DC Motor Driver and Arduino Circuit guide

The TB6612FNG Dual H-bridge DC motor driver is ideal for small robot vehicles using the Micro Metal Gearmotors. This guide looks at how to use this driver when connected to Arduino compatible boards using single power supply options. Therefore, review this guide for pinouts and example circuit diagrams for 3.3 Volts and 5 Volts. Continue reading “TB6612FNG Dual DC Motor Driver and Arduino Circuit guide”

360 Degree Mod for Servo Continuous Rotation – Guide

In this feature, I am going to do a 360 degree mod on a micro servo motor for continuous rotation. I go through the modding step by step with clear pictures of the conversion process. Also, Python code will be included to drive the servo 360 degrees from the Raspberry Pi. Continue reading “360 Degree Mod for Servo Continuous Rotation – Guide”

Micro Servo 9g – Raspberry Pi Servo Motor Python Code Test

In preparation for a future project, I’m taking a close look at the Micro Servo 9g I bought from Ebay some time ago. So, to build the servo motor into a project, I require electrical specifications, wiring diagram, drawings with dimensions, 3D CAD model, and also test code for Arduino and Raspberry Pi. Continue reading “Micro Servo 9g – Raspberry Pi Servo Motor Python Code Test”

Multithreading Raspberry Pi Game Controller in Python

Multithreading on the Raspberry Pi is an excellent way to keep the main thread of your program running as efficiently as possible. To demonstrate, I show how you can move game controller polling routines to a separate thread. Find the Python example code for robot control at the end of this feature. Continue reading “Multithreading Raspberry Pi Game Controller in Python”

Object Detection and Tracking with OpenCV and Python

In this feature, I look at what it takes to setup object detection and tracking using OpenCV and Python code. Using the code snippets included, you can easily setup a Raspberry Pi and webcam to make a portable image sensor for object detection. Continue reading “Object Detection and Tracking with OpenCV and Python”

Nokia 5110 LCD Display Setup For Raspberry Pi Guide

The Nokia 5110 LCD Display seems a perfect fit for the Raspberry Pi as the screen can be connected directly. So here is a guide on how to set one up with details on how to hookup and install libraries. Also included is an example Python program in addition to the code examples included with the libraries. Continue reading “Nokia 5110 LCD Display Setup For Raspberry Pi Guide”

OpenCV Color Detection and Filtering with Python

OpenCV color detection and filtering is an excellent place to start OpenCV Python development. In this article, I introduce a basic Python program to get started with OpenCV. The program will allow the user to experiment with colour filtering and detection routines. This article marks the beginning of my efforts to create an object detection robot. Continue reading “OpenCV Color Detection and Filtering with Python”