This AI powered Raspberry Pi RC tank shoots bubbles at its targets
Raspberry Pi-powered RC cars and tanks are popular projects among hobbyists, but the latest creation from the YouTube channel Kahosh RC and AI Tech stands out for its unique twist—a remote-controlled tank robot that shoots bubbles at unsuspecting targets. This inventive project combines the Raspberry Pi with an Arduino Nano to create a machine-learning-powered bubble-blasting tank, blending fun with impressive technical capabilities.
This RC tank uses a Raspberry Pi 4 as its primary controller for machine learning and AI functionalities, while an Arduino Nano manages the physical movements and actions of the tank. Although a Raspberry Pi Pico 2 could potentially replace the Nano, the current setup allows for more efficient division of labor, with the Arduino handling real-time control of the tank’s movements and the Pi focusing on AI processing. Despite the use of wheels instead of traditional tank treads, the tank moves with the agility and control typical of tracked vehicles. The upper “bubble station” can rotate independently, allowing for targeted bubble attacks.
The bubble-shooting mechanism is cleverly integrated into the top of the tank. It features a special compartment for the bubble solution, with a hose that feeds liquid to a blowing mechanism. A fan pushes air through a spinning bubble wand ring, creating a stream of bubbles. The tank’s movement and bubble-launching functions are controlled by a Hot RC brand RC controller, providing smooth and responsive operation. The build video offers a detailed view of the Arduino Nano, which is connected with numerous jumper wires, likely to power the servos and other components controlling the tank’s actions.
The Raspberry Pi 4 in this build is designated to handle machine learning tasks, enabling the tank to potentially track and target humans or other moving objects. With the upcoming Raspberry Pi 5 and the AI HAT offering enhanced processing power and specialized AI capabilities, there’s speculation on how much more efficient or faster this bubble-blasting robot could become. This project is a fantastic example of combining robotics, machine learning, and creativity, resulting in a fun and technically impressive RC tank that goes beyond traditional designs.
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