BrickPi3 BalanceBot

Introduction

In this project, we build a balancing robot with the Raspberry Pi, some LEGO Mindstorms, and the BrickPi3. We provide full build instructions and software to create your own Raspberry Pi Balancing Robot. The software runs on Python, and reads the EV3 gyroscope to balance the robot. The movement is controlled with the LEGO remote control.

Step 1: Parts Needed

To build the Raspberry Pi balancing robot you’ll need the following:

• The BrickPi3 Base Kit

• The Raspberry Pi

• The LEGO Mindstorms EV3 Kit

• A WiFi Dongle – We use the Dexter Industries WiFi Dongle

• Raspbian for Robots – You can download it here for free or purchase it installed on an SD Card here.

Step 2: Build Instructions

You can find full building instructions in LEGO Digital Designer format here. The parts are all included in the LEGO Mindstorms EV3 Kit. All the parts to build your Raspberry Pi LEGO BalanceBot!

Step 3: Running the Software

All of the software to run the BrickPi3 Balancebot is free, and available for download on Github here. In the command line, enter the directory where you’ve downloaded the BalanceBot.py. Run the file with the command:

sudo python BalanceBot.py

You will see on-screen instructions for setting up and running the BalanceBot!

Questions?

Ask us on our forums here!