This is the source code for the AutCar project - build your own self-driving toy car!

Getting started

1) Hardware prerequisites

You have two options: Either get a development kit with all hardware parts ready and packed for you at www.autcar.com.

Or, collect (and 3D print) all the parts yourself. You will need the following:

1. A Raspberry Pi 3 or 4 (the original Raspberry Pi or Raspberry Pi Zero (WH) won't work).
2. Two motors and an expansion board to connect both to your Raspberry Pi (we use 5V 28BYJ-48 stepper motors).
3. A camera (either an USB webcam or a Raspberry Pi cam).
4. A battery pack to run your Raspberry Pi.
5. 3D printed chassis and wheels. You can find sample models here.

Please check this document to learn how to assembly all parts.

2) Software setup

Do you have a car ready to go? Great, next please follow the guide here to install all dependencies and start the car.

3) Learn how to use the library

The following tutorials are available:

• 1. Basics - Learn how AutCar works in general
• 2. Machine Learning - Learn the basics of Convolutional Neural Networks for AutCar
• 3. External models - Train a model in customvision.ai and use it in AutCar
• 4. Execute two or more models - Write a custom execution function

FAQ & troubleshooting

Q: I have trained a machine learning model but the car is not following the lines.

A: This could have multiple reasons

• Check the training images and see if you are able to distinguish what direction a car should move just by looking at a specific image. If you can't do it, the model can't do it.
• You need more training data (at least 500 images per class is recommended)
• The lighting conditions are poor or the markings are barely highlighted compared to the ground
• Test your model as described here. The AutTrainer test method is using the same measures as the method used to drive the car. If your model doesn't perform well here, it won't perform well when driving.

Q: The battery pack and/or Raspberry Pi are only loosely attached to the car

A: This is correct for Model One, the Raspberry Pi is just loosely placed on top of the battery pack.

Q: The engine mounting in the rear area is worn out and the engines are no longer stable. What can I do?

A: The motors produce heat which will deform the mounting. This is an expected by-effect. You can do two things: 1) Remove the motors and heat the area with a hair dryer. Then carefully bend the ends closer together again. Cool down the chassis and put the motors back 2) Put a rubber band over both engine brackets.