Line-Following Robot with TCS34725 & KY-033 Sensors

Description

Line-following robot with two sensor options

This project is a line-following robot that you can build with two different sensors: KY-033 infrared modules or the TCS34725 RGB color sensor from Adafruit. Both work, but they work differently, and the package includes Arduino code for each.

The KY-033 is the simpler option. It is a basic infrared sensor that sees dark vs. light. Tape a black line on a white surface, point the sensor at it, and the robot follows. Straightforward, cheap, and it does the job for most situations.

The TCS34725 is more interesting. It reads actual color values, not just light and dark. That means you can follow colored lines or make the robot respond to different colors in different ways. It is a bit more involved to wire up, but the code handles the calibration for you.

What is in the package

• STL files for the chassis and sensor mounts (3D printable)
• Arduino code for the KY-033 setup
• Arduino code for the TCS34725 setup
• Wiring diagrams and a bill of materials

The chassis is designed to hold two DC motors with wheels and a caster ball. The sensor mounts clip onto the front of the robot and hold whichever sensor module you choose. You can print all the parts in PLA without supports.

Which sensor should you use?

If you just want a robot that follows a black line, the KY-033 is enough. It is cheaper and easier to set up. If you want to experiment with color detection or plan to extend the project later, go with the TCS34725. The code for both options is included, so you can always try both.

Full Tutorials:

• Building the line-following robot with TCS34725
• KY-033 line-following robot: beginner tutorial