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CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

This chapter emphasis on the project background and identification of the problem as

well as deliberating the core fundamentals for the development of the project. Moreover, the

scope of the project also been discussed in the chapter along with the significance and

limitation that will be encountered via the development of this project.

1.1 PROJECT BACKGROUND

Education system had been fundamental element in a contemporary country since it

plays a vital role in alleviating most of the challenges faced in our daily life as well as facilitates

opportunity to the younger generation for a better prospect in career and self-growth. The

history of teaching dates to the very starting of humankind and from the early man proficiency

and knowledge were pass down from generation to generation. Our ancestors’ ability to survive

and create tools out of stones and wood proves the education been the art of teaching and

learning passed down. [1]

The education system had evolved from writing on the sand, slates made of wood and

chalkboards. The education system that focuses of the teaching and learning process had

tremendously developed in past few decades. The materials and medium utilized in the

teaching also evolved alongside with the education system itself. In the former decades,

education related institutions used the blackboard and chalk. However, this system had taken

over by the whiteboard system to convey the teaching and learning process nowadays due to

its many advantages over the chalkboard.

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The immense growth and enhancement of technology had facilitated development in

numerous approaches for the teaching and learning process, the research concludes that the

traditional teaching method had resulted the student with a better understanding of the subject

been taught since there are room for them to inquiry and learn from the teacher. [2] Different

methods of cleaning the boards been employed to facilitate effective and efficient teaching

with white boards. In this paper, the design and implementation of a white board erasing

mechanism been controlled by Arduino based on the Limit sensor and IR sensors for erasing

the written text on the whiteboard via either quadrant erasing mode or full erasing mode and

capable to return to the its original position upon completion of task is planned to be developed.

1.2 PROBLEM STATEMENT

In these few decades, there been a numerous growth in the new education institutions

due the upsurge in the number of students that been joining in the education institutions as well

as the old institutions are not capable to serve the large sum of students. More classroom for a

subject are required to open in a particular institution in order to cater the tremendous growth

of students. The insufficient number of teachers had eventually lead the teachers to teach more

classes in a day in comparison to the teachers in the era of 1950. [3] This setback had root the

teacher to be more fatigue as the teacher require writing the information that they want to

convey to their students repeatedly. A fix schedule in one day also can cause a fatigue to the

teachers in cleaning all information that they write on the whiteboard.

The teacher often overlooks to clean the whiteboard after their class sessions. When

the next class session begins, the new teachers will complain as the board not cleaned and this

would distract the class. Sometimes, the teacher assigns any students to erase the whiteboard

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once the class ended. This leads to time wastage for the student as well as the teacher. For

instance, the student need to copy the written text as fast as they could so they can proceed

with their whiteboard erasing task. This will eventually interrupt the student’s focus on the

information that been taught.

Furthermore, cleaning the whiteboard been a difficult task for some teacher due to their

height. These teachers tend to use a minimum space out of the whole whiteboard since they are

not able to clean it. The height of some board cleaners also affect the section of the board to be

clean. Even the board cleaners are available, it takes away time from the teacher to erase the

board. Another setback that are often faced the education institutions is the vanishing of the

whiteboard eraser. The vanishing of the whiteboard eraser often caused when the student tends

to steal the eraser so that they can play with it. Besides that, other classroom tends to borrow

the eraser to clean that particular classrooms’ whiteboard and often to give back the eraser to

its original location.

1.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE PROJECT

The essential objectives that have been designate as fundamental to the project are:

1.3.1 To design and build the whiteboard erasing mechanism that based on Arduino

controlled mechanism with the capability of returning to its original location based on

the Limit sensor and IR Sensors

1.3.2 To enhance the erasing mode of the whiteboard erasing mechanism to quadrant mode

erasing and full mode erasing

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1.4 SCOPE OF THE PROJECT

The scope of the project are:

1.4.1 The prototype of the mechanism developed on whiteboard that measures 3 feet by 4

feet in size which been attached to the plywood that measures 4 feet by 5 feet in size.

1.4.2 The Arduino Compatible Atmel ATMEGA2560 Mega 2560 acts the brain of the

mechanism whereby it collects the input from the Control Switch and processes the

operation mode to carry out.

1.4.3 The Control Switch utilized for deciding the erasing mode to be either quadrant 1,

quadrant 2, quadrant 3 and all which satisfies the objective of the quadrant mode and

full mode erasing.

1.4.4 The limit switch utilized in the mechanism in order to safeguard the movement of the

duster slider from exceeding the wanted area of operation.

1.4.5 The white tape placed at the end of each quadrant detected by the IR Sensor in order

to command the duster slider to return towards the original position.

1.4.6 The duster slider consist of Velcro fastener that sticks cloth covered sponge (cleaning

tool) onto it is in charge to carry out the whiteboard erasing task.

1.4.7 The stepper motor is in charge for the movement of the duster slider on the whiteboard

via clockwise rotation on stepper motor 1 and anticlockwise rotation on the stepper

motor 2.

1.4.8 The three servomotor in the duster slider is in charge for the movement of the duster

slider towards the whiteboard surface depending on the IR Sensor and Limit Switch.

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1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE PROJECT

The invention of this mechanism that is capable to erase the whiteboard with dual mode

erasing capacity as well return the original position upon completion of the task stipulates many

advantages. One of the major significance of developing the automatic whiteboard erasing

mechanism using Arduino is that the time wastage could be conquer. The mechanism takes

over the whiteboard cleaning task that ease the teacher to be more focus on writing and

delivering their subjects to the student as well as save the time consumed by the teacher or

student to clean the whiteboard.

The invention of the whiteboard cleaning mechanism will curb the distraction occurred

in the later classes due the overlook of the teacher to clean the whiteboard in the former classes.

With the invention of this mechanism, later class teacher can easily clean the whiteboard with

invention of the whiteboard cleaning mechanism. The invention of the whiteboard cleaning

mechanism also indirectly helps the fatigue teachers from overstraining themselves from the

whiteboard cleaning task. Eventually with the invention of this mechanism will reduce the

manual work required by the teacher in carrying of the whiteboard cleaning process.

Besides that, the built onto whiteboard feature of the whiteboard cleaning mechanism

encounters the vanishing of the whiteboard eraser problem that been faced in many educational

institutional. Thus, the education institution able to locate the mechanism in every classroom

with ease. The cleaning process also carried out easily since the built-on feature of the

whiteboard cleaning mechanism. On the other hand, this mechanism also upsurges the financial

savings. The education institutions spend a large amount of money in buying the whiteboard

eraser been stolen or vanished from the classroom since the whiteboard eraser plays a vital role

as the medium of cleaning of whiteboard after a class session.

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1.6 LIMITATION OF THE PROJECT

The possibilities of limitation exist equally for the development of any software or

hardware project. The invention of the whiteboard cleaning mechanism also has its own

limitation such the whiteboard comes predefined quadrant sizes. The whiteboard cleaning

mechanism can only utilize in these predefined quadrants which are been split with a specific

length.

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CHAPTER II

LITERATURE REVIEW

The study is very crucial in order to have a better understanding of the automatic

whiteboard erasing mechanism that exists in the market. Besides that, the theory understanding

is also vital since it leads to this project and the project would relate into research of the

available theory as well as its application. Every theory and device will be compares and the

best as well as the most suitable be selected and utilized in this project.

2.1 REVIEW OF CURRENT SITUATION

In today’s world of numerous growths and advancement of the technology, people are

becoming accustomed to not only for an easier access to information via the internet but

numerous manual labor had been simplified and taken over by machines to enhance a simple

and better life. The digital era of transformation towards Internet of Things (IOT) had lead for

the evolution mechanism in many chores. The Arduino plays role as brain of the project that

comprise of open-source electronics platform based on both hardware and software. [1]

Education is an essential element for the country to raise an independent younger

generation who are capable to contribute the growth of the nation as well as facilitates

opportunity for a better prospect in career and self-growth. In the current era, whiteboard had

become a vital medium in the teaching and learning process in the traditional teaching method

that been practiced in numerous educational institutional in many countries. The teacher carries

out the teaching process by writing the information and knowledge on the surface of the

whiteboard. Upon the completion of the teaching process, the teacher is required to carry out

the whiteboard erasing process in order to write more information onto the whiteboard.

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Figure 2.1: The teacher is carrying out the whiteboard cleaning process

The tremendously growth in the number of students had affected the teacher to teach

numerous classes per day. This had eventually caused the teachers to be more fatigue since

they had use up their energy to write for teaching process. [4] Moreover, more manual labor

required for the whiteboard cleaning process since the whiteboard made up of white

background and more stress required to be apply on the whiteboard eraser to get a perfectly

clean whiteboard. The burn-up of energy due to the manual labor indirectly upsurge the time

wastage of both the teachers and the students that been tasked for the whiteboard cleaning

process.

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2.2 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

The whiteboard been the major medium for the teaching and process in the traditional

teaching method that been practiced widely nowadays. The whiteboard designed of a white

surface for non-permanent markings. Since the invention of the whiteboards, there been

numerous whiteboard eraser been designed with the goal of reducing the stress of the cleaning

of the whiteboard. [5] There two related researches been discussed in order to obtain a better

understanding of the project development.

2.2.1 PRELIMINARY DESIGN OF AN AUTOMATED WHITE BOARD CLEANER

One of the research that been conducted had affected in the designing of an automated

white board cleaner to overcome the setback rose. The automated white board cleaner was

majorly construct of plywood since it is easy for fabrication process and its availability as well

as fabrication part used stainless steel in order to make the white board eraser to be in contact

with the whiteboard. [6] Moreover, the whiteboard was equipped with motor stand mounting

together the motor, sprockets, chains and duster together. The core fundamental of this

automated white board cleaner was modifying the automatic whiteboard cleaner by replacing

the belts with chains that will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the cleaner as well

as reduce the stress of cleaning the board by using an automated duster. [6]

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Figure 2.2: The design of the automated white board cleaner

This project was able to overcome the wear and tear occur in the belts of the electric

board cleaner that exist in the market. Since the cleaning process impacts the belts since most

belts designed with low wear and tear resistance and with the frequent cleaning process, the

belt is likely to cut and hence makes the device or the cleaner less useful. The automated white

cleaner also eliminate the manual effort required for the typical whiteboard cleaning process.

[6] The development of the automated white board cleaner fulfill the criteria where a fully

automated system designed in order to carry out the cleaning process. However, the automated

white board cleaner features with only the full erasing mode. Thus, the user has to wait until

the automated white board cleaner finish cleaning the full board before continuing writing more

information on the board. [6]

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Figure 2.3: The operation of the automated white board cleaner

2.2.2 WHITEBOARD ERASING ROBOT

Whiteboard erasing robot is an autonomously robot, that can erase a written text on a

whiteboard completely autonomously. Without human interface, the robot easily finds the

text on whiteboard with the process that programmed. In this design, the robot moves

towards the written text until it detects the written text on whiteboard and upon detecting, the

robot will start the erasing task. The whiteboard erasing robot consist of the robot and robot

vision. The robot segment consists a base with two wheels that ride on the whiteboard track

that utilized to move on the X-axis of the whiteboard while the robot arm slider utilized to

move the robot in up and down directions on Y-axis. At the end of the arm, the duster

attached to do the cleaning process. [7]

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Figure 2.4: The operation of the whiteboard erasing robot

The robot vision utilizes the webcam and computer base control station that located at

the opposite side of whiteboard. The vision utilized to find written text meanwhile RoboRealm

utilized to process the vision which enable the robot to perform the cleaning task at the place.

[7] After finishing the vision part and analyzing the program, robot will move to the location

and do it cleaning task. This design of robot is suitable to be use in any school whiteboard as

long as the base of platform robot is the same with the criteria that was developed that is the

base must be suitable to place the wheels of robot. However, the design of the whiteboard

erasing robot is not efficient, as the manual erasing process since riding on the track became a

big challenge due to the narrow bottom as well as a very small area to work in due to the fitting

of all the heavy parts into a tight area. [7]

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2.3 REVIEW OF RELATED PRODUCTS

2.3.1 AUTOMATIC BOARD CLEANING SYSTEM USING MICROCONTROLLER

The automatic board cleaning system designed based on the wiping system and the

controlling system. The wiping system in charge in erasing the written text presence in the

whiteboard meanwhile the control system is in charge for controlling the wiping system to

perform its task efficiently. [8] The wiping system consist of the wiper slide attached on the

board while the controlling system consist of the microcontroller that controls the motor, rpm

and time of rotation.

Figure 2.5: The operation of the automatic board cleaning system using microcontroller

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The automatic board cleaning system using microcontroller able to clean the

whiteboard in an average duration of 48.24 seconds that is three times more efficient in

comparison to the manual cleaning process that take up 75 seconds. The development of this

automatic board cleaning system using microcontroller reduce the time and manual labor. [8]

However, there are some lacks in the development whereby there is lagging presence in the

motor.

2.3.2 A REMOTE CONTROLLED MOTORIZED WHITE BOARD CLEANER

The remote controlled motorized white board cleaner is the continuous research that

been improved from the Motorized White Board Cleaner. [9] The remote controlled motorized

white board cleaner aims to improve the design and implementation of a white board with

motorized cleaner is presented as an introduction to the automation of the teaching process

easing and reducing the task of clearing the board as it cleans itself. The cleaning system

consists of a remote control system unit made up of encoder which used to generate the signal

that is then transmitted through the transmitter to the receiver and transmitter consist of receiver

and decoder that decodes the transmitted signal. A pulse width modulation generator used to

modulate the signal from the decoder, the signal is then fed into the input port of the controller

unit. [10]

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Figure 2.6: The operation of the remote motorized white board cleaner

The remote motorized white board cleaner cleans the board when the remote-control

button pressed within the range of 20 meters away from the whiteboard. However, when the

range increases than 20 meters, the eraser do not detect the command from the remote. The

development of this project reduces the time required to carry out the cleaning process as well

as the manual labor required. [10] Hence, the remote controlled motorized white board cleaner

could be use in lecture theatres and seminar rooms to facilitate the effective and efficient

teaching using white boards.

2.3.3 AUTOMATIC DUSTER MACHINE

The automatic duster machine was continuous development for the duster cleaning

mechanism in Chennai, India. [11] The project aims to design a low cost and user-friendly

blackboard cleaner machine that operate with a press a single button as well as enhance the

efficiency and accuracy of the movement of duster machine. The robot operates in three mode

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of operation with the press of the button. The mode of operation is cleaning the left side of the

board, cleaning the right side of the board and the whole area of the board. The mechanism

consists of stepper motor that enable the movement of the duster in horizontal or vertical

direction to carry out the operation mode of the automatic duster machine. [11]

Figure 2.7: The operation of the automatic duster machine

The invention of the mechanism had successfully overcome some of setback faced such

as the fatigue situation encountered by the teacher, avoid duster left in the dirty condition when

a class finished and invented am automate blackboard duster. However, some setback also rose

in the invention of this product such as the problem with the movement of stepper motor in the

X-axis and the noise of the mechanism that disturbs the learning session. [11]

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2.3.4 SUMMARY OF RELATED PRODUCTS

The following table elaborates a brief overview of the related products allied to the

development of this project.

Table 2.1: Comparison of related whiteboard cleaning mechanism in the market


Automatic Board A Remote Automatic Duster Automatic Whiteboard
Cleaning System Controlled Machine Erasing Mechanism
using Motorized White using Arduino
Microcontroller Board Cleaner
Description The wiping The cleaning system The blackboard The whiteboard erasing
system consist of consist of the duster consists of
mechasim consist of
the wiper slide encoder and stepper motor that
duster slider which
consist of the transmitter made up enable the
eraser perform the of decoder and movement of the controlled by stepper
cleaning process receiver. [10] duster in horizontal
motor and servo motor to
by the control of or vertical direction
cater the erasing
the control system to carry out the
consist of the mode of operation. operation to be either in
microcontroller. [11]
quadrant or full erasing
[8]
mode.

Autonomous Yes No No Yes

Processor Single Single Single Arduino


Microcontroller Microcontroller Microcontroller
Eraser made of Wiper Slide made Handheld remote Eraser held by the Duster slider consist of
up of plastic made up of wood slider
Velcro fastener that sticks
and plastic
cloth covered sponge

Time to 48.24 seconds 42.21 seconds 45 seconds (whole 33.84 seconds (whole
perform (whole board) (whole board) board) board)
cleaning process
Advantages Reduce time and Reduce time and Reduce fatigue Reduce the manual work,
manual labour manual labour situation and avoid the stress, energy wastage
duster left in dirty and conquer time
condition wastage.
Disadvantages Lagging of motor Only can be within Lagging in Only works on predefined
range of 20 meters movement in X-axis quadrant sizes.
by remote and very noisy

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CHAPTER III

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY

This chapter will explain about the project methodology, project planning based,

project schedule and project software. This project flow from one part to another part. The

details of the component used in this project also would pointed out.

3.1 PROJECT METHODOLOGY

The methodology used in this project is System Development Life Circle (SDLC).

SDLC has its specific task description in each phase, while maintaining the objectives of the

project and can be divide into several parts as well as manage in parts. Each phase of

development proceeds in strict order, without any overlapping or iterative steps.

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Figure 3.1: Methodology Flow of System Development Life Cycle (SDLC)

PHASE 1: PLANNING

The first phase of this project emphasis on the inclusive planning for development of

the automatic whiteboard erasing mechanism using Arduino. The major element focused in the

planning phase is the problem identification. Once the reasonable problem been recognized,

the planning phase continues to strategy of solving the problems. The criteria that emphasized

is the investigation of the project background that enables the identification of the current

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system that exist and how does the proposal of new system to overcome the problem. The

objective and scope are set based on criteria that been layout to ensure the development of

project goes efficiently.

PHASE 2: ANALYSIS

The system requirements are studied and structured in analysis phase. The process of

collecting facts from existing system performed in order to develop limitations and details as

well as defining new system objectives. The related literature work and product were examined

to enhance the mechanism.

PHASE 3: DESIGN

In this phase of project development, the conceptual design of mechanism taken into

consideration so the mechanism specifications and requirements. Once the conceptual design

justifies the objective and scope of project, physical design developed using AUTOCAD. The

physical design using AUTOCAD easily manage product data, automate workflows and make

real time design of the mechanism. Upon accomplishment of the conceptual and physical

designing, the project will be emphasizing on the circuit diagram modelling by utilizing the

Proteus software.

PHASE 4: IMPLEMENTATION

The implementation phase instigates as the construction of the mechanism begins. Each

part of the mechanism is will develop according to the physical design, circuit diagram and the

requirement of the objective of the project. Upon completion of the gathering of the part of the

mechanism as a single mechanism, the coding phase of the source code take place.

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PHASE 5: MAINTENANCE

Testing of the mechanism take places, the coding of the source code completed as per

the objective of the project. Any errors or bugs confronted in the maintenance phase taken into

consideration to solve by the developer.

3.2 DEVELOPMENT METHODOLOGY

Research are carried out in order to ease the finalization of the system design for both

hardware and software development for The Automatic Whiteboard Erasing Mechanism using

Arduino. The hardware development focuses on choosing the best components and tools to

meet the need of the project. Pre-phase of the software development, the design of the

mechanism constructed via conceptual designing and AUTOCAD designing.

Moreover, the software development focuses on the coding based on Arduino Compiler

and simulation based on Proteus in order to fulfil the objective of the project. The circuit design

constructed via the Proteus in order to obtain a simulation beforehand of implementing the

mechanism construction while Arduino Compiler let the appropriate coding required for the

project to be write on the Arduino Compatible Atmel ATMEGA2560 Mega 2560.

3.2.1 BLOCK DIAGRAM

The automatic whiteboard erasing mechanism using Arduino integrated into three

segments. The first segment of the project aims on the input source for the mechanism that

consist of the Control Switch, IR sensor and Limit switch. The processor development is the

second segment of project development. In this segment, the processor chooses which is

Arduino Compatible Atmel ATMEGA2560 Mega 2560 will be integrated using the Arduino

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IDE software to meet the objective and scope of the project. Meanwhile, the third segment of

the project focuses on the output source for the mechanism. The output source consists of the

integration of mechanical segments such as the stepper motor which controls the movement of

the duster slider towards right and left of the whiteboard meanwhile the movement of the

duster towards and away from the whiteboard been controlled by the servo motor.

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Figure 3.2: Block Diagram of the project

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3.2.2 FLOWCHART

The flowchart explained in sequence of the following steps.

1. The automatic whiteboard erasing mechanism using Arduino caters with Control Switch

with four selection that are Quadrant 1, Quadrant 2, Quadrant 3 and All.

2. Upon the Control Switch pressed, the mechanism will carry out its operation which either

quadrant mode erasing (when Control Switch A [Quadrant 1], Control Switch B

[Quadrant 2] or Control Switch C [Quadrant 3] is pressed) or full mode erasing (when

Control Switch D [All] is pressed).

3. Upon the Control Switch pressed, Arduino Compatible Atmel ATMEGA2560 Mega

2560 processes the command and triggers the stepper motor to start its operation. The

duster slider located 5cm away from the whiteboard. The Arduino Compatible Atmel

ATMEGA2560 Mega 2560 in charge to trigger the stepper motor 1 and stepper motor 2

to start its operation by rotation to enable the duster slider movement. The Stepper Motor

1 rotates clockwise meanwhile the Stepper Motor 2 rotates anti-clockwise which enable

the duster slider move across the whiteboard surface.

4. Once the duster slider reached the specific quadrant, it moves towards the end of the

specific quadrant until the white tape or limit switch detected so that the servo motor

moves the duster slider towards the surface of whiteboard to execute the erasing mode.

5. For Control Switch A [Quadrant 1] and Control Switch B [Quadrant 2], the duster slider

continues to move towards the right of the whiteboard until the white tape been detected

by the IR Sensor. IR Sensor distinguish the reflected light towards its sensor from the

emitted light. The white tape is responsible to stop the movement of the duster slider. The

detection dispensed to the Arduino Compatible Atmel ATMEGA2560 Mega 2560 for

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processing which triggers erasing process to take place by enabling the servo motor to

attach the duster slider towards the surface of whiteboard and execute the Quadrant

Erasing Mode.

6. The duster slider continues to move towards the right of the whiteboard until the limit

switch 2 detected for Control Switch C [Quadrant 3]. The limit switch 2 is in authority to

stop the movement of the duster slider. The servo motor to attach the duster slider towards

the surface of whiteboard and execution of the Quadrant Erasing Mode takes place upon

the Arduino Compatible Atmel ATMEGA2560 Mega 2560 dispenses the detection of the

white tape by IR Sensor.

7. For Control Switch D [ALL], the duster slider continues to move towards the right of the

whiteboard until the limit switch 2 detected. The halt of the duster slider is accountable

by the Limit Switch 2. The Arduino Compatible Atmel ATMEGA2560 Mega 2560

receives the detection of the white tape by IR Sensor and upon processing it, the processor

runs erasing process to take place by enabling the servo motor to attach the duster slider

towards the surface of whiteboard and execute the Full Erasing Mode.

8. Upon completion of erasing process either The Quadrant Erasing Mode or Full Erasing

Mode, the processors triggers the duster slider to moves away from the whiteboard

surface and continue moving towards the left part of the prototype.

9. The movement of the duster slider continue towards the left until it detects the Limit

Switch 1 that is charge to stop the movement of the duster slider. Thus, the duster slider

return its origin position and is all set for the subsequent command from the user.

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Figure 3.3: Flowchart of the mechanism

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3.3 TOOLS AND HARDWARE

The development of the project utilizes some hardware in order to accomplish the scope

and objectives of the project. The table shows the specification of hardware for this project

development.

Table 3.1: Hardware Specification for the development of the project

Specification of the hardware Name of the hardware to be utilize

Input Source  Control Switch

 IR Sensor

 Limit Switch

 Power Supply

Processor  Arduino Compatible Atmel

ATMEGA2560 Mega 2560

3.3.1 CONTROL SWITCH

The Control Switch utilized by the user to determine the mode of operation for the

whiteboard erasing mechanism that is the quadrant mode erasing or full mode erasing. The Control

Switch caters four options such as “A” [Quadrant 1] which indicate the first segment of the

whiteboard, “B” [Quadrant 2] which indicates the second segment of the whiteboard and “C”

[Quadrant 3] that designates the third segment of the whiteboard as well as “D” [All] which

signifies the whole whiteboard.

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Figure 3.4: The Control Switch

3.3.2 IR SENSOR

An IR sensor is a device that detects IR radiation falling on it. There are numerous types

of IR sensors that are built and can be build depending on the application. The IR Sensor detects

the color of the written text by sense certain characteristics of its surroundings by either emitting

or detecting infrared radiation via looking for reflected light, it is possible to have a sensor that can

return the value of the reflected light. The IR Sensor in this mechanism utilizes its principle by

detecting the white tape at the end of each quadrant. The white tape indicates the end of the quadrant

for the Quadrant 1 and Quadrant 2 so the mechanism is able to terminate it movement towards the

right of the whiteboard by dispending the detection to the processor which able to stop the stepper

motor’s rotation and triggers the servo motor to move duster slider towards the surface of

whiteboard and execute the erasing mode.

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Figure 3.5: The IR Sensor

3.3.3 LIMIT SWITCH

The limit switch plays the role of control system in this mechanism. When an object

encounters the actuator, the device operates the contacts to make or break an electrical connection.

In this mechanism, there are two limit switch been used. The limit switch is responsible to safeguard

the movement of the slider from exceeding the wanted area of operation. Besides that, the limit

switch 2 also utilized as the limiter of the Quadrant 3 and All where the detection of this specific

limit switch triggers the processor to stop the movement of the duster slides and enable the servo

motor to move the duster slider towards the surface of the whiteboard and execute the erasing mode.

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Figure 3.6: The Limit Switch

3.3.4 POWER SUPPLY

Power Supply is an electrical tool that provides electric power to an electrical load. The

core purpose of a power supply is to convert the electric current from the source to the appropriate

voltage, current and frequency to power the load. The source for the power supply contributed from

electrical power grid such as electrical outlet or energy storage devices. The power supply obtains

the electric current from electrical outlet that is 240 V to power up the automatic whiteboard erasing

mechanism using Arduino in order to operate its functionality.

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Figure 3.7: The power supply

3.3.5 ARDUINO COMPATIBLE ATMEL ATMEGA2560 MEGA 2560

Arduino Compatible Atmel ATMEGA2560 Mega 2560 is a microcontroller board with 54

digital input/output pins out of which 14 used as PWM output, 16 analog inputs, 4 UARTS, a

16MHz crystal, an oscillator, a USB connection, a power jack, an ICSP header and a reset button.

The Arduino Compatible Atmel ATMEGA2560 Mega 2560 act as the processor for this mechanism

is liable to process the input from the Control Switch to determine the erasing mode to be executed

on the surface of the whiteboard.

Moreover, the processor is also accountable to process the detection of the white tape by

IR Sensor [For Quadrant 1 and Quadrant 2] as well as processing the detection of limit switches 2

[For Quadrant 3 and All] that stops the rotation of the stepper motor 1 and stepper motor 2 which

directly stop the movement of the duster slider towards the right of the whiteboard. Upon stopping

the duster slider movement towards right, the processor is in charge to trigger the servo motor

operation which is to enable the duster slider to move towards the surface of the whiteboard and

execute the erasing mode as per chosen by the user.

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The Arduino Compatible Atmel ATMEGA2560 Mega 2560 is responsible to enable the

servo motor to moves the duster slider away from the surface of the whiteboard and trigger the

stepper motor 1 rotates anti-clockwise direction and stepper motor 2 rotates clockwise for the duster

slider to move towards the left of the whiteboard.

Figure 3.8: The Arduino Compatible Atmel ATMEGA2560 Mega 2560

3.3.5 STEPPER MOTOR

The stepper motor is DC electric motor which divides a full rotation into a number of equal

steps In this mechanism, the stepper motor emerged at one end of the timing belt which eventually

enables the timing belt to rotate based on the pulley rotated via the stepper motor rotation. These

stepper motor and timing belt with the pulley control the movement of the duster slider towards the

right and left accordingly. Motor driver act as an interface between Arduino and the motors. The

most commonly used motor driver IC’s are from the L293 series such as L293D which are designed

to control stepper motor simultaneously.

32
There are two stepper motor been utilized to enable the movement of the duster slider to

the right and left of the whiteboard accordingly to the user’s command. The stepper motor 1 located

on the top meanwhile the stepper motor located on the bottom. The stepper motor 1 rotates in

clockwise direction while the stepper motor 2 rotates in anti-clockwise direction for the duster

slider to move towards the right of the whiteboard. The enable the movement of duster slider

towards the left, the stepper motor 1 rotates in anti-clockwise direction while the stepper motor 2

rotates in clockwise direction.

Figure 3.9: The Stepper Motor

33
Figure 3.10: The Motor Driver

3.3.6 SERVO MOTOR

The Servomotor act the actuator that enables the precise control of the angular or linear

position of the mechanism. In this project, the servo motor act the motor which enable the duster

slider movement towards the surface of the whiteboard to carry out the erasing operation upon

detection white tape for Quadrant 1 and Quadrant 2 or detection of limit switch 2 for Quadrant 3

and All.

Figure 3.11: The Servo Motor Driver

34
3.4 PROJECT SOFTWARE

The development of the project utilizes some software in order to accomplish the scope

and objectives of the project. The table shows the specification of software for this project

development.

Table 3.2: Software Specification for the development of the project

Specification of the software Name of the software to be utilize

Source Code  Arduino IDE

Designing and Simulation  Auto-desk

 Proteus

3.4.1 ARDUINO IDE

The development of the project utilizes the Arduino IDE to perform the source code

coding. The software enables to compile the necessary commands and source code into the

processor, which is The Arduino Compatible Atmel ATMEGA2560 Mega 2560. Specific

source code libraries used to program the Arduino Compatible Atmel ATMEGA2560 Mega

2560 to make decision to perform the erasing process when the IR Sensor detects the infrared

light as well as to change direction when the Ultrasonic Sensor detects obstacles.

35
Figure 3.12: Sample source code using Arduino IDE

3.4.2 AUTOCAD

The physical design developed using AUTO-DESK. The physical design using AUTO-

DESK easily manage product data, automate workflows and make real time design of the

mechanism.

Figure 3.13: Sample whiteboard eraser physical design using AUTODESK


36
3.4.3 PROTEUS

The Proteus Design Suite is a design tool including schematic capture, simulation and

PCB Layout modules. By using this software, we can load a hex file of a program into

simulation part and can test operation of the system before the actual hardware implementation.

Upon accomplishment of the conceptual and physical designing, the project will be

emphasizing on the circuit diagram modelling by utilizing the Proteus software.

Figure 3.14: Sample project simulation using PROTEUS

3.5 CIRCUIT DIAGRAM

The circuit diagram for the Automatic Whiteboard Erasing Mechanism using Arduino

constructed in PROTEUS software. The Control Switch, IR Sensor, Limit Switch, Motor

Driver with Stepper Motor and Servo Motor integrated with the Arduino Compatible Atmel

ATMEGA2560 Mega 2560. The connection of each components shown in figure below:

37
Figure 3.15: Circuit Diagram for The Automatic Whiteboard Erasing Mechanism using

Arduino

38
3.6 CIRCUIT SIMULATION

The simulation of the circuit diagram uses PROTEUS software as well as it utilizes the

constructed circuit diagram to simulate the output of the mechanism upon the circuit begin its

operation. The overall simulation attached in Appendix C.

39
Figure 3.16: Circuit simulation in the Proteus software.

40
3.7 DESIGN

The third phase of the development concentrates the development of design for the

whiteboard erasing mechanism. The design phase is a vital aspect of the project development

since the objective and scope of project are justified through the conceptual design while the

interface design enables better vision for the project development on the logical and physical

design. This phase divided into the conceptual design and AUTOCAD design.

3.7.1 CONCEPTUAL DESIGN

The conceptual design are the pre-sketch of the prototype of the mechanism planned to

design and built. The following are the conceptual that sketched for the development of this

project:

Figure 3.17: Conceptual Design 1

41
Figure 3.18: Conceptual Design 2

Figure 3.19: Conceptual Design 3

42
Figure 3.20: Conceptual Design 4

Figure 3.21: Conceptual Design 5

43
Figure 3.22: Conceptual Design 6

3.7.2 AUTOCAD DESIGN

The AUTOCAD design is a computer-aided drafting software that acts the blueprint of

the mechanism planned to be develop. The following are the AUTOCAD design for the

development of this project:

44
Figure 3.23: AUTOCAD Design 1

45
Figure 3.24: AUTOCAD Design 2

Figure 3.25: AUTOCAD Design 3

46
Figure 3.26: AUTOCAD Design 4

Figure 3.27: AUTOCAD Design 5

47
3.7.3 3D DESIGN

The following are the 3D Design of The Automatic Whiteboard Erasing Mechanism

using Arduino:

Figure 3.28: The 3D Design 1

Figure 3.29: The 3D Design 2

48
Figure 3.30: The 3D Design 3

3.8 PROJECT ASSEMBLY

3.8.1 PROTOTYPE BASE CONTRUCTION AND ASSEMBLY OF WHITEBOARD

The prototype base of The Automatic Whiteboard Erasing Mechanism using Arduino

constructed using the plywood. The plywood measured into the measurement of 4 feet by 5 feet

since the whiteboard measures 3 feet by 4 feet. This is enable the fitting of the rail guide, stepper

motor, duster slider and more materials have sufficient space. Upon measurement of the plywood

according the preferred measurement, the plywood was cut accordingly to measurement using

circular saw. Subsequently, the whiteboard was drilled into the centre of plywood using the drill

machine.

49
CONSTRUCTION OF PLYWOOD BASE
1. The plywood was measured into 4 feet by 5 feet using T ruler.
2. The plywood was cut according to the preferred measurement using a circular saw.

ASSEMBLY OF WHITEBOARD
1. The whiteboard was placed to the center of the plywood and measurement was
drawn around the whiteboard with same gap.
2. The whiteboard was drilled onto the plywood using drill machine

Completion of the plywood base construction and whiteboard assembly

Figure 3.31: Workflow of plywood construction and whiteboard assembly

Figure 3.32: Measuring the plywood to Figure 3.33: Measuring the same gap

preferred measurement between end of plywood and whiteboard

50
Figure 3.34: Drilling the whiteboard onto Figure 3.35: Completion of plywood

the plywood base with assembled whiteboard

3.8.2 DESIGNING AND ASSEMBLY OF DUSTER SLIDER

Upon the completion of plywood base construction with the assembly of whiteboard, the

duster slider was design accordingly. The plywood was utilized as the base of the duster slider.

The duster slider was assemble in the vertical orientation to the whiteboard. The Velcro was

assembled on the bottom of the duster slider that faces the surface of the whiteboard. The duster

sponge that been covered with the cloth would be placed onto the Velcro to be utilized as the

cleaning tool. The core intention of assembling the Velcro is to ease the user to remove the duster

sponge in case it get dirty and fit the clean duster sponge for the erasing purpose.

In addition to this, the servo motor was also installed into duster slider. The sole purpose

of installing the servo motor inside the duster slider is to enable the slider to move towards and

away from the surface of the whiteboard.

51
The plywood was The plywood installed The Velcro assembled
measured and cut in the vertical on the bottom of the
accordingly orientation duster slider

Completion of
The servo motor The duster sponge
designing and
installed into the wrapped with cloth
assembly of duster
duster slider sticked onto the velcro
slider

Figure 3.36: Workflow of designing and assembly of the duster slider

Figure 3.37: The plywood made duster Figure 3.38: The duster sponge is fit on

slider assembled vertically on whiteboard the Velcro as erasing tool

52
Figure 3.39: The Velcro to be assembled Figure 3.40: The servo motor installed

on the bottom of the duster slider into the duster slider

3.8.3 INSTALLATION OF METAL SHIFT GUIDE

The metal shift guide installation the subsequent step taken for the assembly of the

Automatic Whiteboard Erasing Mechanism using Arduino. The core task for this step is to install

the metal shift guide on the plywood base. The metal shift guide was accurately shorten as per the

plywood base requirement. The metal shift guide was installed on the top and bottom of the

plywood base. The main purpose of the metal shift guide is ease the movement of duster slider.

53
The metal shift guide measured to fit the plywood base

The metal shift guide cut according the reqirement to fit the plywood base

The metal shift guide screwed on top of the plywood base

Completion assembling the metal shift guide on the top and bottom of
plywood base

Figure 3.41: Workflow of installation of metal shift guide

Figure 3.42: Installation of metal shift guide on the plywood base.

54
3.8.4 INSTALLATION OF STEPPER MOTOR AND MOTOR DRIVER

Subsequently to the completion of fixing of the metal shift guide, the installation of stepper

motor and the motor driver takes place. The stepper motor responsible for the duster slider

movement to the right and left of the whiteboard as per control switch. Firstly, the motor driver

fitted on the back portion of the plywood base. The timing belt fitted between the stepper motor

and the fixed holder in order to ease the movement of the duster slider. The stepper motor 1 installed

on the top of the plywood base meanwhile the stepper motor 2 installed on the bottom of the

plywood base. Finally, the both stepper motor connected to the motor driver using wires.

The stepper motor 1 fit


The motor driver fit to The timing belt fixed
on top of the plywood
the back portion of the between the stepper
base while the stepper
plywood base motor and fixed holder
2 on the bottom

Completion The wire connection


installation of stepper made between the both
motor and motor stepper motor and
driver motor driver

Figure 3.43: Workflow of installation of the stepper motor and motor driver

55
Figure 3.44: Motor driver installed to the Figure 3.45: The timing belt fitted from

back portion of the plywood base the stepper motor to the fixed holder

Figure 3.46: The stepper motor 2 been Figure 3.47: The stepper motor 1 been

installed on bottom of the plywood base installed on top of the plywood base

56
Figure 3.48: The motor driver connected to the stepper motor 1 and stepper motor 2

3.8.5 FIXING OF THE CONTROL SWITCH, IR SENSOR, LIMIT SWITCH AND

ARDUINO

The fitting of the control switch the following step upon completion of the installation of

the stepper motor and motor driver accordingly. The user utilize the control switch to set the erasing

mode that to be carried out by the mechanism which either in the quadrant erasing mode or full

erasing mode. The control switch set up whereby the first switch labeled as A for Quadrant 1 as

followed by the second switch to be labeled as B for Quadrant 2 while Quadrant 3 represented by

the third switch labeled as C and the ALL represented by switch D. The control switch been

installed on to the plywood base. Then, the control switch set up with wires according to the

requirement and these wires connected with the Arduino.

57
Figure 3.49: The control switch been Figure 3.50: The wires are set up

fitted on the plywood base according to requirement to the

Arduino

The IR Sensor installed on the plywood base subsequent to the completion of fitting the

control switch. The IR Sensor in this mechanism utilizes its principle by detecting the black tape at

the end of each quadrant. The black tape indicates the end of the Quadrant 1 and Quadrant 2 so the

mechanism is able to trigger the Arduino to stop the movement of duster slider and enable the servo

motor’s operation. Besides that, the Limit Switch also been installed at the same period of IR Sensor

installation in this mechanism. In this mechanism, the limit switch been utilized to safeguard the

movement of the slider from exceeding the wanted area of operation as well as indicate the end of

Quadrant 3 and All in order the erasing process to take place.

58
Figure 3.51: The IR Sensor installed on Figure 3.52: The Limit Switch installed

the plywood base on the plywood base

Subsequently, the Arduino Compatible Atmel ATMEGA2560 Mega 2560 fitted at the

bottom of the plywood base. The Arduino obtain the input from the control switch to determine the

erasing mode to execute, the IR Sensor and Limit Switch 2 to stop movement of duster slider and

enable the erasing process as well as Limit Switch 1 to return the duster slider to the origin position.

Figure 3.53: The installation of The Arduino onto the plywood base

59
3.8.6 SPRAYING PLYWOOD BASE AND INSTALLATION OF POWER SUPPLY

The plywood was sprayed with the black colour in order to appear neat and clean. Upon

the spray had dried, all the previous material was installed back to the plywood accordingly.

Subsequently to these installation, the power supply was fitted to supply sufficient power for the

operation of the erasing mechanism.

Figure 3.54: The plywood base sprayed with black colour.

60
Figure 3.55: The power supply installed onto the plywood base.

3.8.7 FULLY ASSEMBLED MECHANISM

The mechanism is entirely assembled upon installation of the power supply, thus the

process of coding the source codes into the Arduino would take place in order the mechanism to

operation and fulfil its objective.

Figure 3.56: The fully assembled mechanism.

61
3.9 PROJECT SCHEDULE

The table below shows in detail about planning of the tasks that carried out throughout

the development of this project.

Table 3.3: Project Schedule for the development of the Project 1

PROJECT 1
Week
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Tasks
11/09 - 17/09

18/09 - 24/09

25/09 - 01/10

02/10 - 08/10

09/10 - 15/10

16/10 - 22/10

23/10 - 29/10

30/10 - 05/11

06/11 - 12/11

13/11 - 19/11

20/11 - 26/11

27/11 - 03/12

04/12 - 10/12

11/12 - 17/12

18/12 - 24/12
Project Briefing 1
Project Class
Session
Meeting with
supervisor
Title Proposal
Mini Proposal
Preparation and
Submission
Project Title
Approval
Proposal Report
and Slides
Preparation
Proposal
Presentation
Conceptual
Designing
Circuit Design
Simulation Design
Progress Report and
Slides Preparation
Progress
Presentation
AUTOCAD
Designing
iRex

62
Table 3.4: Project Schedule for the development of the Project 2

PROJECT 2
Week
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

Tasks

19/02 - 25/02

26/02 - 04/03

05/03 - 11/03

12/03 - 18/03

19/03 - 25/03

26/03 - 01/04

02/04 - 08/04

09/04 - 15/04

16/04 - 22/04

23/04 - 29/04

30/04 - 06/05

07/05 - 13/05

14/05 - 20/05

21/05 - 27/05
Project Class Session

Meeting with supervisor


Query of tools and
hardware
Procurement of tools and
hardware

Assembly of project

Programming

Testing

Troubleshooting
Final Report and Slides
Preparation

Poster Design

User Manual Design

Final Report Submission

iRex

63
CHAPTER IV

FINDINGS AND DISCUSSIONS

This chapter will describes the simulation result that outcome from the mechanism

been assembled in the previous chapter. The final design and system test for the successfully

operation mechanism as per its objectives and scope.

4.1 SIMULATION RESULT

The circuit simulation replicate the behaviour of the actual electronic device and circuit on

the computer-aided software. Thus, circuit simulation software permits for demonstrating of the

circuit operation. The circuit simulation been executed using The Proteus software for this project.

The circuit simulation was performed few groupings such as Limit Switch output, IR Sensor output

and erasing mode output for Quadrant 1, Quadrant 2, Quadrant 3 and All.

4.1.1 LIMIT SWITCH OUTPUT

64
Figure 4.1: The Limit Switch 1 Simulation Output.

65
Figure 4.2: The Limit Switch 2 Simulation Output.

66
4.1.2 IR SENSOR OUTPUT

Figure 4.3: The IR Sensor Simulation Output.

67
4.1.3 ERASING MODE OUTPUT

Figure 4.4: The Quadrant 1 Switch Simulation Output.

68
Figure 4.5: The Quadrant 2 Switch Simulation Output.

69
Figure 4.6: The Quadrant 3 Switch Simulation Output.

70
Figure 4.7: The All Switch Simulation Output.

71
4.2 FINAL DESIGN

The final design reflects the completed mechanism with all the hardware been fitted

accordingly and the software been configured appropriately to ensure a successfully working

mechanism. The ultimate design of The Automatic Whiteboard Erasing Mechanism using Arduino

as following:

Figure 4.8: The final design of the mechanism

4.2.1 TOP VIEW

The top view indicates the front view or perspective of the user of the developed

mechanism. The top view of The Automatic Whiteboard Erasing Mechanism using Arduino as

following:

72
Figure 4.9: The top view of the mechanism

4.2.2 BACK VIEW

The back view indicates the behind view or perspective of the user of the developed

mechanism. The back view of The Automatic Whiteboard Erasing Mechanism using Arduino as

following:

73
Figure 4.10: The back view of the mechanism

4.3 SYSTEM TEST

The system test of The Automatic Whiteboard Erasing Mechanism using Arduino can

classified into two categories which is the hardware system testing and the software testing. The

hardware system testing focuses on the examination and troubleshooting the hardware halt faced

upon the test been executed meanwhile the software system testing focuses on the analysing and

solving the setback found on the source codes of the mechanism.

74
4.3.1 ARDUINO SOURCE CODE TESTING 1

The duster slider required to move towards the left upon completion of the erasing mode

task been assigned as per the requirement from the control switch, however there was a setback

found whereby the duster slider was going back in opposite direction instead of moving towards

the origin position. There was a minor problem with the source code. Upon rewriting the source

code, the error was disentangled.

Figure 4.11: The Arduino source code Testing 1

4.3.2 ARDUINO SOURCE CODE TESTING 2

There was error incurred mentioning that that compilation of the source code failed using

the Arduino IDE. Upon analysing the source code, there error identified as a double insertion of

semicolon at a command in the source code. Thus, the source code executed successfully upon the

addition semicolon been removed from the command in the Arduino IDE.

75
Figure 4.12: The Arduino source code Testing 2

4.3.3 INSTALLATION OF SECOND AND THIRD SERVO MOTOR

The initial design and blueprint for the mechanism was plan to be executed with a single

servo motor to move the duster slider towards and away from the surface of the whiteboard.

However, the power and force from one servo motor wasn’t sufficient enough for moving the duster

slider towards the surface of the whiteboard. Thus, two more servo motor was added into the duster

slider in order to have the sufficient power and force to move the duster slider towards and away

from the surface of the whiteboard. Upon adding the servo motor, the system function successfully.

76
Figure 4.13: The initial design with single servo motor in the duster slider

Figure 4.14: The latest design with three servo motor in the duster slider

77
4.3.4 IMPLEMENTATION OF WHITE TAPE FOR IR SENSOR

The initial design of the mechanism utilizes the black tape for the IR Sensor detection to

enable the limit of Quadrant 1 and Quadrant 2 to be determine by the Arduino. However, the duster

slider didn’t detect the black tape been sticked to the plywood base since the plywood base been

sprayed with the black colour. The black tape replaced with the white coloured tape instead. Upon

the the white tape been detected by the IR Sensor, the movement of the duster slider stops and the

processor triggers the servo motor to move the duster slider to move towards the surface of the

whiteboard and execute the erasing process.

Figure 4.15: The initial design with black tape for IR Sensor detection

78
Figure 4.16: The final design with black tape for IR Sensor detection

4.3.5 QUADRANT 3 ERASING MODE TESTING

The Quadrant 3 Erasing Mode testing evaluate the erasing mode from the initiating of

control switch labelled “C” until the completion of quadrant mode erasing process and the duster

slider returns to its origin position. The process involved for the duster slider to move towards the

right of the whiteboard as well as the movement of the duster slider towards the surface of the

whiteboard also been examined upon the testing. The Quadrant 1 Erasing Mode testing was

successful.

79
Figure 4.17: The control switch “C” been Figure 4.18: The duster slider moves to

pressed the right of the whiteboard

Figure 4.19: The duster slider moves Figure 4.20: The Quadrant 1 Erasing

towards the surface of the whiteboard Mode been executed

4.3.6 QUADRANT 2 ERASING MODE TESTING

The Quadrant 2 Erasing Mode testing examines the erasing mode from the initiating of

control switch labelled “B” until the completion of quadrant mode erasing process and the duster

slider returns to its origin position. The process involved for the duster slider to move towards the

right of the whiteboard as well as the movement of the duster slider towards the surface of the

whiteboard also been evaluated upon the testing. The Quadrant 2 Erasing Mode testing was

successful.

80
Figure 4.21: The control switch “B” been Figure 4.22: The white tape been

pressed and duster slider moves to right detected by the IR Sensor

Figure 4.23: The Quadrant 2 Erasing Figure 4.24: The duster slider returning

Mode been executed to its origin position

4.3.7 QUADRANT 1 ERASING MODE TESTING

The Quadrant 1 Erasing Mode testing examines the erasing mode from the initiating of

control switch labelled “A” until the completion of quadrant mode erasing process and the duster

slider returns to its origin position. The process involved for the duster slider to move towards the

right of the whiteboard as well as the movement of the duster slider towards the surface of the

whiteboard also been evaluated upon the testing. The Quadrant 3 Erasing Mode testing was

successful.

81
Figure 4.25: The control switch “A” been Figure 4.26: The Quadrant 3 Erasing

pressed Mode executed

Figure 4.27: The duster slider returning to its origin position

4.3.8 FULL ERASING MODE TESTING

The Full Erasing Mode testing evaluates the erasing mode from the initiating of control

switch labelled “D” until the completion of full mode erasing process and the duster slider returns

to its origin position. The process involved for the duster slider to move towards the right of the

whiteboard as well as the movement of the duster slider towards the surface of the whiteboard also

been examines upon the testing. The Full Erasing Mode testing was successful.

82
Figure 4.28: The control switch “D” been Figure 4.29: The duster slider moves

pressed towards the right of the whiteboard

Figure 4.30: The Full Erasing Mode been Figure 4.31: The Full Erasing Mode

executed (20%) been executed (80%)

83
CHAPTER V

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

5.1 CONCLUSION

The Automatic Whiteboard Erasing Mechanism using Arduino is a modernistic

approach towards the 21st century environment since this mechanism enhance the erasing mode

to be either quadrant erasing mode or full erasing mode as the user’s intention as simple touch

of control switch. This mechanism collaborates the input from the control switch, IR Sensor

and Limit Sensor to process by The Arduino Compatible Atmel ATMEGA2560 Mega 2560.

The processor also commands the stepper motor movement that controls the duster slider

movement to the right and left of the whiteboard and the movement of the servo motor that

manages the movement of duster slider towards and away from the surface of the whiteboard.

The duster slider is also capable to return to its origin position subsequent to the completion of

the erasing process. Besides that, the invention of this mechanism gives some notable

significance such as reduces the manual work required which eventually diminish the stress

and energy wastage, curb the distraction occurred in classes, conquer time wastage conquered

and upsurges financial savings.

5.2 RECOMMENDATION FOR FUTURE WORK

For the future development, voice commanded operation could upgrade with the

development of the mechanism which extent the efficiency of the mechanism. Moreover, the

ability to control the Arduino could also enhanced by the mobile applications.

84
REFERENCES

[1] Microsoft Encarta, "History of Education," Microsoft Corporation, Washington,


USA, 2009.
[2] E. Carter, F. M. Alsaaty, D. Abrahams and F. Alshameri, "Traditional Versus Online
Learning in Institutions of Higher Education: Minority Business Students’
Perceptions," Business and Management Research , vol. 5, no. 2, 2016.
[3] G. Clark, "A Diverse Educational System: Structure, Standards, and Challenges,"
American Studies Journal, no. 49, 2007.
[4] Petar Kormushev, Dragomir N. Nenchev, Sylvain Calinon and Darwin G. Caldwell,
"Upper-body Kinesthetic Teaching of a Free-standing Humanoid Robot," in IEEE
Intl. Conf. on Robotics and Automation (ICRA 2011), MN, USA, 2011.
[5] S. Atwood and B. Geaghan, "Electronic whiteboard system and method," AMA, vol.
16, no. 1, pp. 5-9, 2002.
[6] O. Simolowo and O. Ngana, "Preliminary Design of an Automated White Board
Cleaner," An International Multidisciplinary Journal, Ethiopia, vol. 8, no. 2, pp. 68-
82, 2014.
[7] Abacus, "Whiteboard Erasing Robot," Trossen Robotics Community, 2010.
[8] Imam-Ul-Ferdous and A.H.M Fazle Elahi, "Development of an Automatic Board
Cleaning system using," in International Conference on Mechanical, Industrial and
Energy Engineering, Bangladesh, 2014.
[9] M. Ogirima, "Design and Construction of a Motorized White Board Cleaner.,"
Nigeria, 2007.
[10] T. Jacob, "A Remote Controlled Motorized White Board Cleaner," AU JOURNAL
OF TECHNOLOGY, vol. 15, no. 4, pp. 273-280, 2012.
[11] S.Joshibaamali and K.Geetha Priya, "Automatic Duster Machine," International
Journal of Emerging Technology in Computer Science & Electronics, vol. 13, no. 1,
2015.

85
APPENDICES

86
APPENDIX A

SOURCE CODE

#include <Servo.h>

const int limit_sw1 = A5;

const int limit_sw2 = A4;

const byte qudrant1_sw = 12;

const byte qudrant2_sw = 11;

const byte qudrant3_sw = 10;

const byte full_sw = 9;

const byte servo_pin = 8;

const byte ir_pin = 2;

const byte step_a = 7; //a1

const byte step_b = 6; //a2

const byte step_c = 5; //b1

const byte step_d = 4; //b2

const int step_delay = 10; //step delay

bool SW1 = LOW;

bool SW2 = LOW;

bool SW3 = LOW;

bool SW4 = LOW;

87
volatile bool IRSW = LOW;

Servo myservo; // create servo object to control a servo

int Position = 0; // variable to store the servo position

void setup()

pinMode(limit_sw1, INPUT);

pinMode(limit_sw2, INPUT);

pinMode(qudrant1_sw, INPUT);

pinMode(qudrant2_sw, INPUT);

pinMode(qudrant3_sw, INPUT);

pinMode(full_sw, INPUT);

pinMode(ir_pin, INPUT);

pinMode(full_sw, INPUT);

pinMode(step_a, OUTPUT);

pinMode(step_b, OUTPUT);

pinMode(step_c, OUTPUT);

pinMode(step_d, OUTPUT);

pinMode(servo_pin, OUTPUT);

88
attachInterrupt(digitalPinToInterrupt(ir_pin),vector, HIGH)

Serial.begin(9600);

myservo.attach(servo_pin); // attaches the servo on servo pin to the servo object

myservo.write(0); // make sure servo is 0 degree

Serial.println("the machine has started");

void loop()

SW1 = digitalRead(qudrant1_sw);

SW2 = digitalRead(qudrant2_sw);

SW3 = digitalRead(qudrant3_sw);

SW4 = digitalRead(full_sw);

if ( SW1 == HIGH)

moveone();

SW1 = LOW;

Position = 0;

89
if ( SW2 == HIGH)

movetwo();

SW2 = LOW;

Position = 0;

if ( SW3 == HIGH)

movethree();

SW3 = LOW;

Position = 0;

if ( SW4 == HIGH)

movefour();

SW4 = LOW;

Position = 0;

90
}

void reverse()

digitalWrite(step_a, HIGH); digitalWrite(step_b, LOW); digitalWrite(step_c, HIGH); digitalWrite(step_d, LOW);

//step 4

delay(step_delay);

digitalWrite(step_a, LOW); digitalWrite(step_b, HIGH); digitalWrite(step_c, HIGH); digitalWrite(step_d, LOW);

//step1

delay(step_delay);

digitalWrite(step_a, LOW); digitalWrite(step_b, HIGH); digitalWrite(step_c, LOW); digitalWrite(step_d, HIGH);

//step 2

delay(step_delay);

digitalWrite(step_a, HIGH); digitalWrite(step_b, LOW); digitalWrite(step_c, LOW); digitalWrite(step_d, HIGH);

// step3

delay(step_delay);

void forward()

91
{

digitalWrite(step_a, HIGH); digitalWrite(step_b, LOW); digitalWrite(step_c, HIGH); digitalWrite(step_d, LOW);

//step 4

delay(step_delay);

digitalWrite(step_a, HIGH); digitalWrite(step_b, LOW); digitalWrite(step_c, LOW); digitalWrite(step_d, HIGH);

// step3

delay(step_delay);

digitalWrite(step_a, LOW); digitalWrite(step_b, HIGH); digitalWrite(step_c, LOW); digitalWrite(step_d, HIGH);

//step 2

delay(step_delay);

digitalWrite(step_a, LOW); digitalWrite(step_b, HIGH); digitalWrite(step_c, HIGH); digitalWrite(step_d, LOW);

//step1

delay(step_delay);

void stopstep()

digitalWrite(step_a, LOW); digitalWrite(step_b, LOW); digitalWrite(step_c, LOW); digitalWrite(step_d, LOW);

delay(step_delay);

void moveone()

92
{

// move to 33 rotations

while (Position < 6600 && IRSW = LOW)

forward();

stopstep();

Position++;

Serial.print("steps: ");

Serial.println(Position);

delay(10);

//activate servo

IRSW = LOW;

myservo.write(180); // make sure servo is 0 degree

Serial.println("servo activated ");

while (Position > 0)

reverse();

stopstep();

Position--;

93
Serial.print("steps: ");

Serial.println(Position);

delay(10);

//deactivate servo

myservo.write(0); // make sure servo is 0 degree

Serial.println("servo deactivated ");

stopstep();

while (digitalRead(limit_sw1)!= HIGH)

reverse();

stopstep();

delay(10);

for (int i = 0; i < 200; i++ ) {

forward();

stopstep();

delay(10);

94
}

void movetwo()

// move to 33 rotations

while (Position < 13200 && IRSW = LOW)

forward();

stopstep();

Position++;

Serial.print("steps: ");

Serial.println(Position);

delay(10);

//activate servo

IRSW = LOW;

myservo.write(180); // make sure servo is 0 degree

Serial.println("servo activated ");

while (Position > 6600 && IRSensor = LOW)

95
reverse();

stopstep();

Position--;

Serial.print("steps: ");

Serial.println(Position);

delay(10);

//deactivate servo

IRSW = LOW;

myservo.write(0); // make sure servo is 0 degree

Serial.println("servo deactivated ");

stopstep();

while (digitalRead(limit_sw1)!= HIGH)

reverse();

stopstep();

delay(10);

for (int i = 0; i < 200; i++ ) {

96
forward();

stopstep();

delay(10);

void movethree()

// move to 33 rotations

while (Position < 19800 && IRSW = LOW)

forward();

stopstep();

Position++;

Serial.print("steps: ");

Serial.println(Position);

delay(10);

//activate servo

IRSW = LOW;

myservo.write(180); // make sure servo is 0 degree

97
Serial.println("servo activated ");

while (Position > 6600 && IRSensor = LOW)

reverse();

stopstep();

Position--;

Serial.print("steps: ");

Serial.println(Position);

delay(10);

//deactivate servo

IRSW = LOW;

myservo.write(0); // make sure servo is 0 degree

Serial.println("servo deactivated ");

stopstep();

while (digitalRead(limit_sw1)!= HIGH)

reverse();

stopstep();

98
delay(10);

for (int i = 0; i < 200; i++ ) {

forward();

stopstep();

delay(10);

void movefour()

while (digitalRead(limit_sw2)!= HIGH)

reverse();

stopstep();

delay(10);

Position++;

99
for (int i = 0; i < 200; i++ ) {

reverse();

stopstep();

delay(10);

myservo.write(0); // make sure servo is 0 degree

Serial.println("servo deactivated ");

stopstep();

while (digitalRead(limit_sw1)!= HIGH)

reverse();

stopstep();

delay(10);

Position--;

for (int i = 0; i < 200; i++ ) {

forward();

stopstep();

100
delay(10);

void vector()

IRSW = HIGH

101

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