Features
The SRB is more than just a robot – it's an intelligent waste-detection solution designed to make recycling effortless and efficient.
Click on any of the features below to explore how the SRB is redefining waste management for a cleaner future.
Hardware
Raspberry Pi 4:
The RaspberryPi 4 serves as the brain, processing data from the sensors, camera, and machine learning model. It handles all the decision-making, allowing the bot to identify and sort waste efficiently. With its powerful processor and connectivity options, the Raspberry Pi 4 enables us to coordinate the bot’s movements and actions seamlessly. This compact device is at the heart of our innovation, driving the intelligence behind our recycling solution.
Arduino Nano:
The Arduino Nano plays a key role as the control hub. It manages the LCD display, processes data from the accelerometer, and receives signals from the Raspberry Pi 4 to control the motors. This lightweight and powerful microcontroller ensures smooth communication between components and precise execution of the movements, making it an essential part of our innovative recycling system.
DC Motors/Wheels
In our project, the Smart Recycling Bot, the DC motors and wheels act as the bot’s muscles and legs. They provide the power and mobility needed to navigate different environments, responding to precise signals from the Arduino Nano. Together, the motors and wheels are essential for bringing our recycling bot to life, enabling it to collect and sort waste effectively.
LiDAR Sensor
The LiDAR sensor acts as the bot’s localization system, using echolocation to detect and avoid obstacles. By emitting laser pulses and analyzing the reflections, it maps the surroundings in real time, ensuring safe and efficient navigation. The SLAMTEC RPLIDAR A1M8 allows the bot to identify clear paths and make precise movements, making the LiDAR sensor a critical component for obstacle avoidance and spatial awareness.
HD Camera
The HD camera serves as the bot's eyes, enabling it to recognize and classify garbage. Connected to the Raspberry Pi 4, it captures high-quality images that are analyzed by a machine learning model to identify different types of waste. This visual intelligence allows the bot to identify items accurately, making the HD camera an essential part of our innovative recycling system.
LCD Display
The LCD display acts as the bot’s voice, providing real-time feedback and data to users. It showcases important information from the accelerometer, such as motion status or tilt angles, ensuring smooth operation and monitoring. This LCD ST7789 enhances the interactivity and transparency, making it easier to understand and manage its performance during waste sorting tasks.
Accelerometer
The accelerometer serves as the sense of balance and motion. It detects changes in orientation, tilt, and acceleration, providing critical data to ensure the bot moves smoothly and maintains stability. This sensor GY-521 MPU6050 helps prevent tipping and ensures precise navigation, making it an essential component for safe and effective operation while the bot sorts and collects waste.
Ultrasonic Sensors
The ultrasonic sensors HC-SR04 are crucial for preventing falls and ensuring safe navigation. Positioned to check the floor ahead, they detect edges, stairs, or drops, helping the robot avoid dangerous situations. By measuring the distance to the ground, the sensors prevent the bot from accidentally falling off ledges or down stairs, ensuring smooth and secure movement while sorting waste.
Software
Edge Impulse
Edge Impulse acts as the brainpower that enables the robot to identify different types of waste. Using machine learning algorithms, Edge Impulse analyzes data from the HD camera to recognize and classify trash with high accuracy. This intelligence allows the bot to categorize items between plastic, aluminum and paper, making Edge Impulse an essential component in enabling the bot to make smart decisions and contribute to effective recycling.
The Smart Recycling Bot integrates sensors, motors, and machine learning to navigate and identify different types of waste. With its ability to avoid obstacles, maintain balance, and sort items accurately, it provides an efficient and intelligent solution for waste management.