Abstract

This project focuses on the design and fabrication of a trekking vehicle with a rocker-bogie mechanism integrated with a pick-and-place system. The rocker-bogie suspension, commonly used in planetary rovers, enables the vehicle to navigate rough terrains while maintaining stability. The vehicle is controlled wirelessly via Bluetooth, utilizing an Arduino microcontroller to process input signals and execute movement commands. The pick-and-place mechanism is equipped with a gripper controlled by servo motors, allowing precise object manipulation in outdoor environments. The integration of these components ensures efficient mobility and functional versatility for trekking and exploration applications. 

The vehicle is powered by a DC motor-driven rocker-bogie system, which distributes the load effectively while overcoming obstacles. The Arduino board acts as the central processing unit, receiving commands through a Bluetooth module from a smart phone or remote device. Servo motors control the gripper’s movement, enabling object grasping and placement. The structural frame is designed to be lightweight yet durable, ensuring ease of mobility in rugged outdoor terrains. The system is programmed using embedded C or Arduino IDE, ensuring smooth coordination between mobility and pick-and-place functions.  This trekking vehicle is ideal for search and rescue operations, automated material handling in remote areas, and planetary exploration simulations. The rocker-bogie suspension enhances adaptability to uneven terrains, while the pick-and-place mechanism increases its operational scope. The use of Arduino and Bluetooth control provides a cost-effective and user-friendly interface for operation. The prototype serves as a foundation for future advancements, such as AI-based navigation and autonomous path planning, making it a significant step toward intelligent robotic systems for outdoor applications.