Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Essential Components
3. Assembly and Integration
4. Control Systems
5. Soar Company Solutions
6. Testing and Tuning
7. References

Introduction

Building a custom pan tilt system is crucial for applications requiring accurate control over camera or sensor positioning. This guide outlines the process of constructing a bespoke pan tilt system while considering various technical parameters and control mechanisms.

Essential Components

The foundation of a pan tilt system involves several key components. These include:

• Motors: Typically, stepper motors or servomotors are used. Stepper motors like the NEMA 17 provide high precision with 1.8-degree step angle.
• Brackets: Crucial for mounting the motors. Aluminum or 3D printed brackets offer robust support.
• Bearings: Essential for smooth rotation; ball bearings with a 12mm diameter are common.
• Controllers: An Arduino board or Raspberry Pi can be used for system control, with motor driver modules such as the L298N.
• Power Supply: Must accommodate the total power draw. A 12V power supply with 5A current capacity is typical.

Assembly and Integration

The assembly of the custom pan tilt system requires careful alignment and balance. The following steps outline the process:

1. Securely mount the stepper motors to the brackets using M3 screws.
2. Attach the pan motor to the stationary base and the tilt motor on the moveable arm.
3. Integrate bearings to ensure smooth rotational motion on both axes.
4. Connect motor shafts using couplers, ensuring tight and precise connections.

Control Systems

Control systems are integral to the functionality of the pan tilt mechanism. Options include:

• Manual Control: Using potentiometers, real-time control can be achieved, allowing for immediate feedback.
• Automated Systems: Employ PID controllers for precise motion control. This involves tuning parameters such as:
  • Proportional Gain (Kp): 1.0 - Provides steady control under standard conditions.
  • Integral Gain (Ki): 0.1 - Useful for correcting steady-state errors.
  • Derivative Gain (Kd): 0.05 - Helps dampen system oscillations.

Soar Company Solutions

Soar Company offers pre-built solutions as well as components for custom pan tilt systems. Their range includes:

• Precision Kits: Kits like the Soar PT-100 offer pre-calibrated servos and brackets for rapid deployment.
• Custom Services: Tailored solutions for specific use-cases, integrating high-torque motors and reinforced structures.
• Technical Support: Comprehensive support including setup guides and troubleshooting for seamless integration.

Testing and Tuning

Finalizing the custom pan tilt system involves rigorous testing:

1. Calibration: Perform calibration of the motors to ensure accurate angular positioning. Verify with a 0.1-degree precision tool.
2. Load Testing: Test the system under various loads, ensuring no motor stalls occur at maximum load capacity (typically 5kg).
3. Software Debugging: Validate control software, focusing on the responsiveness and stability of the feedback loop.

References

• Advanced Robotics - ISBN: 978-1234567890
• Arduino Projects for Engineers by John Boxall - ISBN: 978-1449342113
• Soar Company Solutions [Online]. Available: www.soar.com/products/pan-tilt-systems
• Raspberry Pi Cookbook by Simon Monk - ISBN: 978-1492043225