#obstacleavoidance

DIY Obstacle-Scanning Robot: Build a 180° Radar System Using Arduino

Robots that can sense their surroundings are at the heart of modern automation. From autonomous cars to warehouse robots, the ability to detect obstacles, map an area, and respond intelligently is essential. What if you could build a simplified version of that system at home? The DIY Obstacle-Scanning Robot is a hands-on project that teaches radar-like scanning, real-time distance mapping, and mechanical motion using a simple set of components.

At Maker’s Muse, we believe that powerful engineering concepts can be learned through accessible, playful projects. This obstacle-scanning robot is a perfect introduction to robotics, sensing, servo movement, and data visualization. With just an Arduino, a servo motor, and an ultrasonic sensor, you can create a robot that sweeps across a full 180 degrees, reads its environment, and displays the results like a mini radar system.

Let’s walk through how you can build this system from scratch and understand the science behind it.

What You Will Build

This DIY robot uses a servo motor to rotate an ultrasonic sensor across the front half of the robot. As the sensor turns from 0° to 180°, it continuously measures the distance to obstacles. These distance readings can then be displayed in real time using:

The Arduino Serial Plotter

LED indicators

Radar-style user interfaces made with Processing or Python

The result is a robot that can “see” in front of itself by scanning its environment, just like a radar or sonar device. It provides both practical skills and an excellent foundation for more advanced robotics.

Components You Need

To build this radar-scanning robot, gather the following parts:

Arduino UNO The main microcontroller that handles servo rotation, distance calculation, and data visualization.

Servo Motor (SG90 or MG90S) This rotates the ultrasonic sensor from 0° to 180°.

Ultrasonic Sensor (HC-SR04) The sensor sends out ultrasonic waves and measures how long they take to return, allowing distance detection.

Small Chassis with Wheels This holds everything together. You can use a ready-made robot base or build one from cardboard or acrylic.

Breadboard and Jumper Wires These allow you to make the necessary connections.

Optional but useful:

A power bank or battery holder

A simple LED or buzzer for alert signals

A laptop with Arduino IDE installed

With these basic parts, you are ready to assemble your scanning robot.

How the Setup Works

1. Mounting the Ultrasonic Sensor on the Servo

The ultrasonic sensor sits on top of the servo motor. When the servo rotates, the sensor rotates with it. This motion allows the sensor to scan different angles and detect objects at multiple positions.

Positioning tip: Make sure the ultrasonic sensor is centered and the servo arm is fixed firmly. Any wobble will affect distance accuracy.

2. Wiring the Components

The wiring is straightforward:

Servo motor signal → Arduino pin 9

Ultrasonic trigger → Arduino pin 10

Ultrasonic echo → Arduino pin 11

Common ground for all components

Once connected, your Arduino can control both the sensor and the servo.

3. Scanning 0° to 180°

The servo motor rotates in small steps: 0°, 1°, 2°, and so on, up to 180°. At each step, the ultrasonic sensor sends a sound pulse and waits for it to bounce back. The time taken for the echo is used to compute distance.

distance = (time × speed of sound) / 2

This step-by-step reading forms a full 180° scan.

4. Displaying the Output

You have multiple ways to visualize your obstacle data:

Serial Plotter Shows a live graph of distance vs. angle.

LED indicators Near objects trigger faster blinking.

Radar visualizations Using Processing, Python, or JavaScript, you can create sweeping radar graphics.

This turns raw data into a meaningful picture of your robot’s environment.

The Code Behind the Robot

To control the servo rotation and distance measurement, here is a simple Arduino code example based on your slides:

for(int pos = 0; pos <= 180; pos++){ servo.write(pos); int d = getDistance(); Serial.println(d); }

While this snippet focuses on the scanning loop, a full program includes:

Triggering the ultrasonic sensor

Calculating distance using echo time

Rotating the servo smoothly

Sending data to Serial Monitor

A minimal getDistance() function looks like this:

int getDistance() { digitalWrite(trigPin, LOW); delayMicroseconds(2); digitalWrite(trigPin, HIGH); delayMicroseconds(10); digitalWrite(trigPin, LOW); long duration = pulseIn(echoPin, HIGH); int distance = duration * 0.034 / 2; return distance; }

This code allows the robot to “sense” its surroundings at each angle point.

How the Robot “Sees” Like a Radar

Ultrasonic sensors are similar to how bats navigate. They send out sound waves above human hearing range. When these waves hit an object, they bounce back. By measuring the time it takes for the echo to return, the robot determines how far the object is.

The rotating motion of the servo allows the sensor to scan many directions in front of it. When plotted, these readings resemble:

Radar sweeps

Sonar pings

Lidar-style distance graphs

This combination of sensing and scanning introduces core robotics concepts: perception, mapping, and navigation.

Real-Time Data Visualization

Using the Arduino Serial Plotter, you can display distance information as a live graph. As the servo sweeps, peaks and dips in the graph represent obstacle distances. This allows you to:

Identify nearby objects

Map the shape of walls

Visualize movement in front of the robot

Visualization transforms raw numbers into understanding. It also opens the door to advanced robotics topics like SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping).

How to Improve Accuracy

Here are a few tips to enhance your readings:

Keep the sensor steady during rotation

Use small servo increments (1° or less)

Avoid scanning near loud, cluttered surfaces

Calibrate speed-of-sound values for your environment

Simple adjustments can drastically improve reliability.

What You Learn from This Project

This DIY robot introduces multiple foundational skills:

Electronics

Working with sensors, servos, and microcontroller pins.

Mechanics

Mounting and positioning components for accurate scanning.

Programming

Controlling servo angles, reading sensors, and visualizing data.

Robotics Concepts

Obstacle detection, mapping, and sensor-based navigation.

Problem-Solving

Debugging wiring, refining code, and optimizing performance.

This is why the project is popular in robotics clubs, workshops, STEM classes, and maker events.

Upgrades and Future Improvements

Once your basic 180° radar robot works, you can extend the project in many ways.

Add Obstacle Avoidance

Use distance data to steer away from obstacles automatically.

Build a Full Autonomous Rover

Add motors and write logic for navigation.

Map Entire Rooms

Use Processing or Python to draw radar-style circular maps.

Add Bluetooth or WiFi

Send data to a phone or online dashboard.

Replace the Ultrasonic Sensor

Try infrared sensors or even LiDAR for better accuracy.

This project is a perfect stepping stone to advanced robotics.

Final Thoughts

By combining an ultrasonic sensor, a rotating servo, and the logic of scanning, you’ve built a robot that “sees” using sound. It’s one of the most engaging and informative projects for anyone exploring robotics. Whether you’re a beginner or a curious maker, this 180° obstacle-scanning robot brings engineering concepts to life through hands-on experimentation.

How Do Drones Avoid Colliding With Each Other In Flight?

Drones zipping around together in the sky are pretty magical to watch, but have you ever wondered how they avoid running into each other mid-air? Well, there’s more going on behind the scenes (or, behind the propellers) than you’d think! With the rise of drone technology, keeping these flying machines from bumping into each other has become a priority. Let’s break down the tech and tricks that make collision-free flight possible.

1. Advanced Sensors

The first line of defense against collisions is sensors. Most modern drones are equipped with a whole arsenal of them! These sensors help drones "see" their surroundings, detect obstacles, and adjust their flight path.

Visual Sensors: Like a camera for your drone. Visual sensors help the drone recognize obstacles, including other drones, and avoid them. Some advanced models even have 360-degree visual sensors, giving them a panoramic view of the skies.

Infrared Sensors: These work in low-light or dark conditions by detecting heat signatures. So, even in pitch black, your drone can sense objects in its way.

Ultrasonic Sensors: Similar to a bat’s echolocation, these sensors emit sound waves and calculate distances based on the echoes. They’re particularly useful for close-range detection.

These sensors work together, creating a high-tech “shield” around the drone. Whenever an obstacle, like another drone, comes too close, the sensors alert the flight controller to adjust the course.

2. GPS And GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems)

Drones today are often GPS-enabled, meaning they know their exact position down to the last centimeter. In addition to GPS, some drones have GNSS, which includes access to other satellite systems (like Russia’s GLONASS) for even better accuracy. With GPS and GNSS, drones can “talk” to each other by sharing their location data. This lets them maintain safe distances automatically, especially when several drones are flying together in formation or in busy airspaces.

Geo-Fencing: Many drones have geo-fencing features, which use GPS to create invisible boundaries around certain areas. If one drone enters a restricted zone (maybe to avoid another drone), it’s immediately corrected, keeping collisions at bay.

3. Collision Avoidance Algorithms

Ever heard of “sense-and-avoid” technology? It’s exactly what it sounds like. Collision avoidance algorithms are the brain behind the whole operation. These algorithms take data from the drone’s sensors and GPS to determine if the drone needs to change speed, direction, or altitude to avoid a potential collision. They do this in real time, which is crucial when multiple drones are in close proximity.

Predictive Analytics: Some of these algorithms can even predict the paths of nearby drones. This means your drone can adjust its route before an actual conflict occurs.

AI And Machine Learning: With advancements in AI, some drones can actually “learn” from their surroundings. This means they get better at avoiding obstacles over time as they gather more data about their flight environment.

4. Communication Between Drones

Imagine driving in a city without traffic lights or road signs. Chaos, right? Now imagine dozens of drones flying around without any way to communicate. That would be a recipe for disaster. Thankfully, some drones can actually “talk” to each other.

Drone-To-Drone Communication (D2D): D2D technology lets drones share their location, speed, and direction with nearby drones. It’s like a virtual handshake to say, “I’m here; don’t get too close!”

Centralized Systems For Drone Fleets: For large-scale operations (think drone shows or delivery fleets), a central control system coordinates all the drones in real-time. This system manages each drone’s flight path to ensure they stay far enough apart. This is especially useful for those stunning drone light shows where hundreds of drones create images in the sky without ever touching!

5. Human Pilots And Flight Rules

Last but not least, human pilots and established flight rules also play a role in avoiding collisions. When professional pilots control drones, they follow specific rules, like maintaining line-of-sight, avoiding crowded areas, and not flying too close to other drones. For example, in a professional drone show, each drone’s path is carefully pre-planned. Pilots know exactly where their drones need to be at all times, minimizing the chance of accidents.

Why The AUTEL ALPHA Is A Game-Changer In Obstacle Avoidance

Do UAV Drones Have Collision Avoidance Programmed Into Them?

Yes! Many UAV drones have built-in collision avoidance systems these days. It’s one of the coolest safety features that make flying smoother and safer for everyone, whether you’re a beginner or a pro. Let’s break it down.

What Is Collision Avoidance?

Collision avoidance is the drone’s “eyes” in the sky. It uses sensors to detect obstacles and either slow down or navigate around them to avoid a crash. Think of it like a built-in co-pilot, keeping an eye out for you.

How Does It Work?

Drones use various sensors, like ultrasonic, infrared, and cameras, to map the environment. If they detect something in their path, they’ll either stop or reroute themselves. So, no more worrying about accidentally smashing into trees or walls!

Best Drone For Obstacle Avoidance?

Safety Measures To Prevent Drone Collisions

Drones have become super popular for everything from photography to drone shows (yep, it’s a thing!). But safety is key, especially when it comes to avoiding those dreaded mid-air collisions. So, how do drones stay safe in the skies?

Obstacle Avoidance Sensors

Most modern drones come packed with sensors that detect obstacles in real-time. These sensors use technology like infrared or cameras to spot objects in the drone’s flight path, helping it automatically adjust course.

GPS And Return-To-Home Features

Many drones are equipped with GPS. If they lose signal or run low on battery, they automatically return to their launch point. This prevents flyaways and reduces the risk of crashing.

Geo-Fencing

This tech creates a virtual boundary for your drone. If it tries to leave a designated area, it’ll stop or turn back—saving you from flying into restricted zones or unexpected obstacles.

Visual Positioning Systems

VPS helps drones hover steadily by detecting surfaces below them. This is especially useful in areas where GPS signals may be weak.

How Do Drones Navigate And Avoid Obstacles?

Drones have gotten super smart when it comes to flying safely. Thanks to advanced tech, modern drones can zoom through the skies without crashing into things. Here's how they do it.

Sensors To The Rescue

Drones rely on sensors like infrared, ultrasonic, and vision-based cameras to detect obstacles in their path. These sensors constantly scan the environment, sending real-time data to the drone's brain (aka the flight controller) to make quick adjustments.

GPS And Navigation Systems

Most drones come equipped with GPS, helping them map out routes and stick to them. When the drone senses an object in its way, it recalculates the best path to avoid it. It’s like a personal assistant rerouting you during a road trip!

AI And Algorithms

Artificial Intelligence plays a major role in modern drones. Complex algorithms process all the sensor data and make split-second decisions. This allows drones to glide smoothly without human intervention.

Want The Best Drone For Obstacle Avoidance?

What Is The Autonomous Navigation Technology Of Drones?

Autonomous navigation in drones refers to the ability of drones to fly without human intervention. Instead of relying on a pilot's commands, these drones use advanced technology to guide themselves through the air. Pretty sci-fi, right? Let’s break it down.

Sensors And GPS: The Drone's Eyes And Ears

Drones are equipped with sensors like cameras, LiDAR, and GPS to help them understand their surroundings. These tools allow the drone to "see" what's around it, helping it avoid obstacles and know where it is. GPS provides precise location tracking, while the sensors give real-time information about nearby objects.

AI And Machine Learning: The Drone’s Brain

The cool part? Drones have "brains" too! They use AI and machine learning algorithms to process the data from their sensors. This helps them make decisions on the fly (pun intended). For example, if there's a tree in its path, the drone can figure out how to go around it instead of crashing into it. Smart, right?

Real-Time Decision Making

Autonomous drones continuously analyze their environment. This real-time decision-making is essential for smooth flights and obstacle avoidance. They adjust their flight paths to ensure a smooth and safe journey.

Why Obstacle Avoidance Is Important

Imagine flying a drone and having to dodge trees, birds, or even tall buildings. Sounds like a challenge, huh? This is why obstacle avoidance is so crucial. It ensures that the drone can fly safely in complex environments without crashing.

Best Drone For Obstacle Avoidance

How Do Drones Avoid Obstacles?

Drones have come a long way in tech evolution. Once upon a time, flying them meant crossing your fingers and hoping they wouldn’t crash into a tree, right? Thankfully, that’s a problem of the past. Modern drones are equipped with advanced tech that allows them to navigate like pros. Let’s dive into how modern drones manage to avoid obstacles with such finesse!

1. Obstacle Sensors: The Drone's Eyes

Think of obstacle sensors as the eyes of your drone. These sensors detect objects in the drone’s path and send that info to its onboard computer. The most common sensor types include ultrasonic, infrared, and vision sensors. Ultrasonic Sensors work by emitting sound waves. When those waves hit an object, they bounce back, helping the drone figure out how far away it is. Infrared Sensors use infrared light to detect objects, often in close range. Vision Sensors are like mini cameras. They capture images of the surroundings, helping the drone create a visual map of the environment. By using these sensors, drones can avoid bumping into walls, trees, or anything else that might be in the way.

2. Advanced Algorithms: The Brainpower Behind The Flight

While the sensors are the "eyes" of the drone, the algorithms are the "brain." When the sensors detect an obstacle, algorithms quickly kick in to calculate the best route to avoid it. These algorithms are sophisticated enough to predict an object’s movement and adjust the drone’s flight path accordingly. For example, if a drone spots a tree branch in its way, it doesn’t just stop. It finds a new, safe route around the obstacle and continues its journey smoothly. It's like having a tiny GPS in the sky, recalculating the best path.

3. GPS And Mapping Systems: Stay On The Safe Path

Speaking of GPS, modern drones use it to fly pre-planned routes. This comes in super handy when you’re using the drone for tasks like surveying, delivering goods, or even capturing cinematic shots. When combined with real-time mapping, drones can adjust their flight paths to avoid obstacles they detect mid-flight. Some drones also come with "geo-fencing," a feature that creates virtual boundaries around areas the drone should avoid, like buildings or no-fly zones. If the drone approaches one of these zones, it automatically redirects itself, staying in the safe zone.

4. AI-Powered Navigation: Smarter Than Ever

Artificial intelligence (AI) has given drones an IQ boost. Modern drones use AI to learn and adapt to their surroundings. They can recognize specific types of obstacles and choose the best avoidance strategy. For example, AI can differentiate between a person walking across the path and a stationary object like a tree. This allows the drone to make smarter decisions based on the context. AI is a game-changer, especially in complex environments.

5. The Human Element: You Can Still Steer!

While drones have advanced obstacle avoidance systems, the pilot (you!) still plays a role. Many drones let you take over in tricky situations, giving you control if the automated system doesn’t react fast enough. However, the combo of obstacle sensing tech and pilot control gives you a nearly foolproof flying experience. It’s like having a co-pilot that watches out for bumps while you enjoy the view.

Why The DJI MINI 4 PRO WITH FLY MORE COMBO PLUS Is Your Best Bet

If you’re looking for a drone that takes obstacle avoidance to the next level, the DJI MINI 4 PRO WITH FLY MORE COMBO PLUS is the perfect pick. This little powerhouse comes packed with features, making flying safe and enjoyable. It has 360-degree obstacle sensing, meaning it detects obstacles in all directions. Whether you're flying through a forest or navigating tight spaces, this drone has your back! Not only does the MINI 4 PRO avoid obstacles like a pro, but it also delivers top-notch video quality and is super portable.

Final Thoughts

Which DJI Drones Have Obstacle Avoidance?

When you're flying a drone, the last thing you want is a crash. That's why obstacle avoidance is a must-have feature. DJI, the leader in drone technology, has packed this feature into many of their drones. But let's focus on the best ones.

DJI MINI 4 PRO WITH FLY MORE COMBO PLUS

The DJI Mini 4 Pro is small but mighty. Don’t let its size fool you. It comes with advanced obstacle avoidance sensors that cover all sides—front, back, top, and bottom. This means you can fly confidently, knowing your Mini 4 Pro will dodge obstacles like a pro. Plus, the Fly More Combo Plus gives you extra batteries and other accessories to keep you soaring longer.

DJI MAVIC MINI 3 PRO WITH SMART CONTROLLER

Next up is the DJI Mavic Mini 3 Pro. This drone takes obstacle avoidance to the next level. It’s equipped with tri-directional sensors that watch out for obstacles in front, behind, and below. The smart controller included in this package makes it even better, offering a crystal-clear live view and responsive control. It’s a drone you can trust in tricky flying conditions.

DJI MAVIC AIR 3 WITH COMBO KIT & RC-N1

Finally, the DJI Mavic Air 3 stands out for its superior obstacle avoidance. This drone is designed for those who want to push boundaries. Its sensors detect obstacles in all directions, making it perfect for complex environments. The Combo Kit and RC-N1 add extra value with essential accessories and a reliable remote controller, making your flying experience smoother and safer.

Wrapping Up