Final Project Proposal: Moving Workbench
This summer, I worked in manufacturing. Often times, parts and tools would have to be transported to different parts of the factory. Some equipment was heavy or inconvenient to carry, especially if you have your hands full. Other times, it could be helpful to extend your workspace or to have a mobile surface nearby while working (i.e. for placing tools and other equipment).
In order to assist in these scenarios, I thought it would be fun to build a moving workbench that can follow a specified user around. The idea is essentially a moving table on wheels.
General idea
Workbench features
- Wooden top & legs
- Motor hidden underneath bottom surface for mobility
- 4 wheels attached to bottom
- Microcontroller used for detecting user
Ideas for user detection
I have no idea how to make the workbench detect and follow the user yet. At the moment, I would think to use a camera and computer vision, some type of sensor, or some type of remote control system.
I may also consider
- Creating attachments to extend the functionality of the table (ex. tool holders)
- Giving the table arms (could probably be useful)
I'm excited to see how my design and implementation ideas evolve as I learn more!
Final Project — Week 5 Updates
Bill of materials:
- 1/2" plywood
- 4 wheels
- High-torque motor
- Breadboard
- ESP32
- L298N motor controller
- Batteries
Timeline:
- Week 6 (Outputs): Prototype a moving "table" — just needs to move and be controlled with a microcontroller.
- Week 7 (MVP Week): Add a remote control feature. Figure out how to use the input–output system to do this. Present an MVP.
- Week 8 (CNC Week): Cut the table out of wood. Make it look cool.
- Week 9 (Networking): Prototype any additional features for the table.
- Week 10: Refine project.