Wall Hugging Mouse Kit (VPL-RAT-WHM)

Description

The VPL’s, Wall-hugging Mouse is a fun and easy-to-build kit that’s great for new robot enthusiasts. The mouse has no electronics, and a simple wire bumper along its side directs current to one of two motors to keep the mouse  moving along the wall.

The wall hugging mouse races along a wall in a zig-zag manner. When the bump sensor makes contact with the wall, the mouse moves to the right. When the bump sensor is not touching the wall, the mouse moves to the left. This simple behavior allows the robot to skillfully follow a wall. The sensor and switches are pre-assembled. The thin, clear body can be painted from the inside for an attractive finish that won’t easily scratch. To assemble the mouse you will need a screwdriver, a modeling knife, diagonal cutters, and long nose pliers.

How It Works

The Wall Hugging Mouse uses a simple two-motor system to scurry along the wall. When motor B is on and motor A is off, the mouse steers left towards the wall.  The sensor wire comes into contact with the wall it activates a  micro switch that turns motor A on and motor B off causing it to steer away from the wall. When the mouse steers away from the wall the sensor rod loses contact with the wall turning the micro switch off and turning motor A off and motor B back on again.

Because this kit has two independent motors for differential drive, it can also serve as a base for your own project. There is ample space for adding your own electronics, and you can readily modify the plastic base.

Basic Specifications

Motor: (2) RE-140
Body: Polycarbonate
Chassis: Plastic

Note: Specifications can be changed, added or subtracted without notice in our constant efforts for improvement.