1. Introduction
This project demonstrates a complete embedded engineering workflow, connecting hardware, firmware, and software layers to control a mobile robot. Commands are sent from a web or mobile application, processed by a Node.js bridge, and executed by the robot’s onboard microcontroller.
The system includes lighting control, motor direction, and speed regulation, showcasing real-time hardware integration and communication.
2. System Architecture
- Firmware: AlgoC (C-based language for microcontrollers)
- Bridge: Node.js + WebSocket + Serial communication
- App Layer: Sends commands like
FORWARD,LIGHT_ON, etc. - Hardware: Robot with DC motors, LED lights, and motion controller
3. Communication Flow
App → Bridge (WebSocket) Bridge → Microcontroller (Serial) Microcontroller → Executes motor/light actions Microcontroller → Sends feedback logs
The bridge acts as a protocol translator, ensuring messages from the app are parsed, sanitized, and sent to the hardware at 115200 baud.
4. Example Firmware
#include <algoC.h>
void application(ALGOC_APP) {
// Move forward for 3 seconds
motor(A, 80, CW);
delay(3000);
motor(A, 0, CW);
// Turn light on
light(1, ON);
}
This program demonstrates direct hardware control via AlgoC SDK — managing motor direction, speed, and LED lighting.
5. Bridge Implementation
The Node.js bridge interprets commands received through WebSocket and sends them over serial to the robot. Example:
→ Comando: FORWARD ← Robot: Control the motor [A]. Direction [-1], Power [5] → Comando: LIGHT1_ON ← Robot: LED channel 1 activated
This layer ensures reliable communication between asynchronous app events and the synchronous nature of embedded serial commands.
6. Key Learning Areas
- Serial communication protocol design
- Node.js integration with embedded systems
- Microcontroller firmware development in C
- App-to-hardware command synchronization
- Real-time debugging and feedback via serial logs
7. Future Improvements
- Add sensor feedback and obstacle detection
- Implement bidirectional WebSocket communication for live telemetry
- Include PID motor control and speed calibration
- Design a cross-platform mobile interface
8. Conclusion
This project illustrates the essence of Embedded Engineering: merging hardware, firmware, and software to create a responsive and intelligent robotic system. The solution provides a strong foundation for IoT-enabled robotics and real-time control platforms.
Appendix: Repository
Coming soon — the project repository and demo setup instructions.