Looking to get started with an autonomous RC car

I went that way several years ago. Randy kindly helped me finishing it.

Important notes:

  • For first tests limit speed, just in case. I used a low maximum throttle pulse width, slightly over neutral.
  • On new versions any channel can be used for mode change, not only 5.
  • RTK important for a real circuit. Better “predict” a good day for tests, specially if there is GPS shadowing (on circuit shown the podium caused it to increase, as shown on graphs).
  • For arming, disable magnetic interference (single motor). Observe in videos there that car can start and accomplish missions even starting 180º rotated.

See Pixhawk 1 on car shown, which fits on 1/10 car. For newer rovers I used Matek H743 Slim.

Any, but don’t expect real R/C racing car performance. Use a low performance combination.

Any, sticks or wheel, even with two channels (GCS for other than steering/throttle). From the beginning I wanted to use a car radio. A third channel would do mode change (knob in T3VCS shown), and with a four channels radio you could simplify arming/disarming.

Tests pending (perhaps some day…):

  • DO_CHANGE_SPEED on straights.
  • Object avoidance, or attach a rotating lidar and observe surroundings (yellow radar).
  • Simultaneous RTK and live 4G or 5G transmission.
  • Trajectories (splines…).