How to build OpenBot
4-DoF wheeled rover · Beginner
OpenBot turns an Android phone into the brain of a 4WD robot car. With an Arduino Nano, TT motors and a printed body, it costs about $50 and does person following and navigation.
Mostly printed parts and plug-in servos. Good first build.
Our estimate, part-time
About $50 (phone not included), per the project BOM
MIT
What is OpenBot?
OpenBot, which started at Intel Labs, uses your Android phone as the robot's computer. The phone's camera and processor run person following and autonomous navigation networks, while a cheap 4WD body handles motion.
The project provides printable body variants, Arduino Nano firmware, the Android apps, controller tools and a training pipeline.
The DIY BOM is about $50 without the phone. No assembled CAD model is published.
OpenBot specifications
- Drive
- 4× TT gearmotors
- MCU
- Arduino Nano
- Brain
- Android phone
- Battery
- 3× 18650
Figures as published by the project. See Sources below.
Bill of materials
| Part | Qty | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Arduino Nano | 1 | |
| TT motor with tyre | 4 | |
| 18650 cell | 3 | |
| 3× 18650 holder | 1 | |
| USB OTG cable | 1 | |
| Spring or rubber band for the phone mount | 1 |
Where's the full bill of materials?
The full BOM, with exact quantities and vendors, lives in the project's own files. Prices change often, so treat $50 as a ballpark from the project. Start at the project repository.
Tools you'll need
- FDM printer
- Soldering iron
- Arduino IDE
Step-by-step build overview
Electronics & wiring overview
The phone talks to the Nano over USB OTG, and the Nano drives the four TT motors through a driver.
Software
Android apps, Arduino firmware and a training pipeline (MIT).
Tips from the bench
- ☕ Newer phones run the networks much faster.
OpenBot FAQ
How much does OpenBot cost?
About $50, not counting the phone.
Sources
Written by Bots n' Beans from the project's own documentation. Check the sources for the latest revision before you buy parts.
Related builds
Robot deals
All deals →
Get dealDeal · Everblog
10% off
ShopShop · CircuitMess
DIY robot kits
Robot and gadget kits you build yourself.
ShopShop · GRABO
Cordless vacuum lifter
GRABO Pro Brushless: the original cordless vacuum lifter for pavers, stone, glass and panels.
Like what we do? Buying through these links supports Bots n' Beans. We earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you!