Components

	RP2040-Zero	x 1
	NRF24L01	x 1
	MG90S Metal Gear RC Micro Servo Airplane Racing Car Truck Boat	x 5
	BMP280	x 1
	NEO-6M-GPS u-blox	x 1

Tools, APP Software Used etc.

	arduino IDE Arduino
	Soldering Iron Kit

Description

RC Receiver

Build Your Own RC Receiver

Harnessing advanced electronics and precise control systems, the RC Receiver is an essential tool for remote control enthusiasts and professionals. This device empowers you to manage various RC models, from drones to cars, with accuracy and responsiveness. Featuring the Raspberry Pi Pico RP2040 microcontroller and the versatile NRF24L01+ 2.4GHz wireless transceiver, this project taps into a world of endless creativity and innovation.

Disclaimer:

This RC Receiver is designed for educational purposes and legitimate remote control uses. Always ensure compliance with local laws and regulations. Prioritize safety during assembly and operation to prevent accidents.

Potential Applications:

Versatile Receiver: Control diverse RC models including drones, cars, boats, and more.
Learning Platform: Ideal for understanding the intricacies of wireless communication and microcontroller functionality.
Customizable Response: Tailor the receiver with specific controls and functions to suit various projects.

Building Guide - The RC Receiver:

Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials:

Raspberry Pi Pico RP2040 microcontroller
NRF24L01+ 2.4GHz wireless transceiver module
Servos (5x) for different control surfaces
BMP280 atmospheric pressure sensor
NEO-6M GPS module
Custom PCB designed for the RP2040 and all components
Soldering iron, solder, and flux
Precision tweezers and small pliers

Assembly:

Prepare Your Workspace: Choose a clean, well-lit area to ensure safety and optimal working conditions.
Mount the RP2040-ZERO: Carefully solder the RP2040 microcontroller onto its designated spot on the PCB.
Attach the NRF24L01+ Module: Securely solder the wireless module, making sure the antenna is correctly oriented.
Connect the Servos: Solder connections to each servo according to their roles in the control scheme, ensuring secure and correct wiring.
Install the BMP280 and NEO-6M Modules: Position and solder these sensors, which provide critical environmental and positional data.
Verify Connections: Double-check all electrical connections for consistency and safety before powering the device.

Programming the RP2040-ZERO:

The heart of your RC Receiver is its software, enabling precise control and data handling.
Set up the Arduino IDE: Install necessary libraries such as RF24 for wireless communication, Adafruit_BMP280 for the pressure sensor, and TinyGPS++ for the GPS module.
Connect the RP2040-ZERO to Your Computer: Use a micro USB cable for connections.
Configure and Upload: Select the appropriate board, port in the Arduino IDE, and upload your custom code to the microcontroller.

Testing and Usage:

Test the Receiver: Power the receiver and verify that all components are functioning correctly.
Calibrate: Ensure the servos and sensors are calibrated to your specific needs.
Final Setup: Mount the receiver in your RC model and perform a controlled test to confirm overall functionality.

Conclusion:

The RC Receiver project not only sharpens your skills in electronics and programming but also equips you with a highly adaptable tool for remote control applications. This project challenges you to blend creativity with technical expertise, resulting in a rewarding and educational experience. Embrace this opportunity to build a tailored RC receiver that enhances your remote control adventures.

Code

Sample Code

Arduino

#include <SPI.h>
#include <RF24.h>
#include <Servo.h>
#include <Wire.h>
#include <Adafruit_BMP280.h>
#include <TinyGPS++.h>

// Pin setup for the NRF24L01+
RF24 radio(7, 8); // CE, CSN
const byte addresses[][6] = {"1Node", "2Node"};

// Servos
Servo servo1, servo2, servo3, servo4, servo5;

// BMP280
Adafruit_BMP280 bmp;

// NEO-6M GPS
TinyGPSPlus gps;
HardwareSerial SerialGPS(1);

// Data structures
struct ReceivedData {
  int axis[5];
} data;

struct SentData {
  float temperature;
  float pressure;
  double latitude;
  double longitude;
} sentData;

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600);
  SerialGPS.begin(9600, SERIAL_8N1, 16, 17); // RX, TX
  radio.begin();
  radio.openReadingPipe(1, addresses[1]);
  radio.openWritingPipe(addresses[0]);
  radio.startListening();

  servo1.attach(2);
  servo2.attach(3);
  servo3.attach(4);
  servo4.attach(5);
  servo5.attach(6);

  if (!bmp.begin()) {
    Serial.println("Could not find a valid BMP280 sensor, check wiring!");
    while (1);
  }

  bmp.setSampling(Adafruit_BMP280::MODE_NORMAL,     /* Operating Mode. */
                  Adafruit_BMP280::SAMPLING_X2,     /* Temp. oversampling */
                  Adafruit_BMP280::SAMPLING_X16,    /* Pressure oversampling */
                  Adafruit_BMP280::FILTER_X16,      /* Filtering. */
                  Adafruit_BMP280::STANDBY_MS_500); /* Standby time. */
}

void loop() {
  if (radio.available()) {
    radio.read(&data, sizeof(data));
    servo1.write(map(data.axis[0], 1000, 2000, 0, 180));
    servo2.write(map(data.axis[1], 1000, 2000, 0, 180));
    servo3.write(map(data.axis[2], 1000, 2000, 0, 180));
    servo4.write(map(data.axis[3], 1000, 2000, 0, 180));
    servo5.write(map(data.axis[4], 1000, 2000, 0, 180));
  }

  if (SerialGPS.available()) {
    gps.encode(SerialGPS.read());
    if (gps.location.isUpdated()) {
      sentData.latitude = gps.location.lat();
      sentData.longitude = gps.location.lng();
    }
  }

  sentData.temperature = bmp.readTemperature();
  sentData.pressure = bmp.readPressure();

  if (!radio.available()) {
    radio.stopListening();
    radio.write(&sentData, sizeof(sentData));
    radio.startListening();
  }
}

CAD-Custom parts and enclosures

Case 1

Rx1.stl

Case 2

Rx2.stl

Download Gerbers Download BOM(Bill of materials)

Apr 24,2024

1,063 views

RC Receiver

Build a versatile RC receiver with RP2040, NRF24L01+, GPS, and sensors for precise control.

1063

Published: Apr 24,2024

Standard PCB

Download Gerber file 1

BOM(Bill of materials)

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