Key Takeaways
- Learn how to build a remote-controlled lawn mower using readily available materials and creative engineering.
- Discover the power of open-source collaboration, as the project’s code and design are freely available for others to build their own.
- Embrace the magic of miniaturization and bring a smile to people’s faces with a DIY project that combines nostalgia, innovation, and practicality.
In the whimsical world of DIY projects, Blake Hodgson’s Lawn Da Vinci stands out as a marvel of ingenuity and nostalgia. Inspired by the iconic shrinking machine from the movie “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids,” Hodgson embarked on a journey to create a remote-controlled lawn mower that would bring a smile to anyone’s face.
The Genesis of a Robotic Lawn Care Revolution
Hodgson’s vision for the Lawn Da Vinci was to build a machine that could tackle the mundane task of lawn mowing with a touch of automation and a whole lot of fun. Using readily available materials and a dash of creativity, he crafted the mower’s frame from angle iron and steel, while mobility scooter wheels and motors provided the necessary locomotion.
The Brains Behind the Brawn
At the heart of the Lawn Da Vinci lies a clever combination of microcontrollers and a single-board computer. Two iRobota Pro Minis handle the motor control and RC signal processing, while a Raspberry Pi serves as the mower’s brain, streaming live video from an attached webcam to Hodgson’s smartphone.
Simplicity and Reliability: A Winning Formula
To ensure the Lawn Da Vinci’s reliable operation, Hodgson simplified the control system by having the motor driver receive signals directly from the RC receiver. This elegant solution reduced complexity and improved overall reliability.
Powering the Lawn Da Vinci: A Symphony of Batteries and Microcontrollers
Two 12V car batteries, wired in series, provide the mower with ample power. An ingenious power distribution system, featuring a disassembled car cigarette lighter USB charger, converts the 12V power to a clean 5V supply for the iRobota and Raspberry Pi.
Multiple Kill Switches: Safety First
Hodgson prioritized safety by incorporating multiple ways to kill the motors. These include turning off the remote, pushing the trainer button, moving the left joystick to the left, or pressing a button on a separate key fob. This comprehensive approach ensures that the Lawn Da Vinci can be stopped promptly in case of any unforeseen circumstances.
Open-Source Goodness: Sharing the Joy of DIY
In the spirit of open-source collaboration, Hodgson has generously shared his entire project, including the code, on his blog and Hackaday. This allows fellow enthusiasts to delve into the inner workings of the Lawn Da Vinci and potentially build their own remote-controlled lawn mowers.
Bonus: The Magic of Miniaturization
The Lawn Da Vinci embodies the magic of miniaturization, reminiscent of the iconic shrinking machine from “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids.” This project serves as a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of DIY enthusiasts who can transform imaginative concepts into tangible realities.
As Hodgson aptly puts it, “The Lawn Da Vinci is a fun project that brings a smile to people’s faces.” It’s a perfect blend of nostalgia, innovation, and practicality, proving that DIY projects can be both entertaining and functional.
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