Car-The-Garden - Autonomous Navigation

Miniature autonomous vehicle navigating the Korean driving test using search algorithms

Project Overview

Car-The-Garden is a robotics project that implements autonomous navigation for a miniature vehicle to complete a scaled-down version of the standard Korean driving test course. The project demonstrates practical applications of classic search algorithms in real-world navigation scenarios.

The Challenge

The Korean driving test includes various challenging maneuvers:

  • Parallel parking
  • T-junction navigation
  • Narrow path following
  • Obstacle avoidance
  • Precise turning and positioning

Implementing these in an autonomous system requires:

  • Accurate path planning
  • Real-time decision making
  • Sensor integration
  • Motor control precision

Technical Approach

Search Algorithms

  • Left-First Search: Prioritizes left-side paths for certain scenarios
  • Right-First Search: Prioritizes right-side paths for alternative navigation
  • Adaptive algorithm selection based on course requirements

Navigation System

  • Sensor data processing for environment awareness
  • Real-time path planning and execution
  • Motor control for precise movements
  • Course completion optimization

Implementation Details

The system combines:

  • Sensing: Environmental detection (likely using ultrasonic/infrared sensors)
  • Planning: Search algorithm-based path finding
  • Control: Motor actuation for steering and speed
  • Execution: Real-time navigation through the course

Learning Outcomes

This project provided hands-on experience with:

  • Robotics hardware integration
  • Classical AI search algorithms
  • Real-time system constraints
  • Sensor-motor coordination
  • Practical problem-solving in robotics

Technical Stack

  • Hardware: Miniature vehicle platform, sensors, motors
  • Software: Python or C for control logic
  • Algorithms: Search algorithms (BFS/DFS variants)
  • Skills: Embedded systems, robotics, algorithm implementation

Significance

Car-The-Garden demonstrates:

  • Practical application of theoretical algorithms
  • Integration of software and hardware systems
  • Problem decomposition in complex tasks
  • Real-world constraint handling
Bringing classic algorithms to life through autonomous robotics.

Project Type: Project Head
Duration: 2019
Focus: Autonomous Navigation, Robotics, Search Algorithms