ME 360 · Electromechanical Design · Spring 2026

SPEED. CONTROLLED CART

A motorized cart with closed-loop speed control using encoder feedback and an Arduino controller.

See the build ↓ ← All work
Arduino
DC Motor & Driver
Encoders
ArduinoDC MotorsEncodersPID ControlSolidWorksEmbedded CSpeed ControlArduinoDC MotorsEncodersPID ControlSolidWorksEmbedded CSpeed Control
01Project brief

The brief.

Course
ME 360
Period
Jan – March 2026
My Role
Code & Testing Lead
Tools Used
ArduinoDC Motor & DriverEncodersSolidWorksLaser CuttingC++
02Goals

What we set out to do.

01

Design a motorized cart capable of maintaining a target speed under a set load condition using closed-loop control.

02

Implement sensor-based feedback using encoders and a proportional control algorithm on an Arduino microcontroller.

03

Build a fast, stable cart that completes a 10‑foot out‑and‑back run without tipping a balance bar, guided by simulation and validated through testing.

03My contribution

What I did.

Contribution

Controls Lead

  • Responsible for the motor driver wiring and complete Arduino control code for the speed regulation loop.
  • Implemented proportional speed control, measured step response, and iteratively tuned gain for stable tracking.
  • Led all testing sessions — collected speed data and documented results.
Contribution

Mechanical Design

  • Contributed to chassis design in SolidWorks with clean motor/encoder mounting.
  • Fabricated brackets and printed custom mounts for the motor driver.