Arduino Physics Lab Car

This repository contains multiple Arduino sketches for controlling and testing self-driving cars for physics lab experiments. The main goal is to achieve straight-line motion with minimal manual calibration, suitable for classroom use with multiple cars.

Folder Structure

• src/ — All Arduino sketches (.ino files)
• wiring_diagram.txt — Pinout and wiring reference
• .gitignore — Ignore build and editor files
• setup_arduino.sh, check_connection.sh — Setup and diagnostic scripts

Main Sketches

• self_correcting_car.ino — Uses line tracking sensors for automatic straight-line correction (recommended)
• alternating_correction_car.ino — Software-only solution, alternates motor corrections to average out drift
• straight_line_motion.ino — Simple constant velocity motion, no correction
• Other sketches are for diagnostics, IR remote, and advanced features

Usage

1. Upload the desired sketch from src/ to your Arduino car.
2. For best results, use self_correcting_car.ino and place black tape on the floor for line following.
3. For quick deployment on many cars, use alternating_correction_car.ino.

Setup

• See setup_arduino.sh for automated environment setup on macOS.
• See wiring_diagram.txt for hardware connections.

License

MIT