Introduction: Arduino Bluetooth RC Car (Android Controlled)

By Ardumotive

Hello, in this project I will show you how to transform an RC toy car to Bluetooth controlled through your Android smartphone!

Before starting, make sure that you have:

  • Arduino uno board
  • L293D motor driver
  • HC-06 Bluetooth module
  • RC Car that can fit all the above !

Optional you will need:

  • 1M & 100K resistor for battery level
  • 4x leds for lights
  • 1x speaker/buzzer for horn sound

For power, you can use the existing batteries (4x 1.5V AA), or replace them with a LiOn rechargeable battery pack.

(I used 12V LiOn rechargeable battery pack)

Official page: http://www.ardumotive.com/bluetooth-rc-car.html

Step 1: Remove the Existing Rc Circuit

Before starting, remove the existing rc circuit. You will not need it any more... you will make a better one from the beginning with Arduino uno ;)

Now, with one battery AA 1.5V you must find the polarity of 2 c motors.

  • For movement motor (back side) the positive polarity cable will be that moves the car forward.
  • For direction motor (front side) the positive polarity cable will be that moves the wheels left.

Step 2: Breadboard Schematic

Ι suggest you to build your circuit on (small) breadboard first.

You can use on/off switch of car like this:

Battery +........./ .......... Arduino Vin

Tip

If you have a "big" rc car it will need more power so you can use L298 module board. L293D motor driver will give max 0.5A per channel and it will be come very hot after while. L298 module board has a heat sink and can give 1A per channel, but is bigger than L293D.

Step 3: Code

Download and open file with Arduino ide. Read every line of code (+comments) to understand how it's working and then upload it to your Arduino uno board!

(for programming arduino uno board you must disconnect first the RX & TX pins of Bluetooth module)

Attachments

Step 4: Android Bluetooth Controller

To control your new Bluetooth car, download and install this android application:

http://www.ardumotive.com/bluetooth-rc-car.html

Tip

First enable Bluetooth and establish connection with BT module.
(ex. HC-06, password 1234)
Use "Help & info" button if you can not understand how it is working.

Accelelometer function is under developing, use with attention!

If you have problem with this app on your android device you can also use this one.

Step 5: Video of My BT ArduiCar

Video is in Greek language but I believe that you can understand it...

Thanks for watching!!!

Remember that Bluetooth technology will give you max 15-20 meters of control.

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