Self-Avoiding Useless Box
A Self-Avoiding Useless Box is an advanced version of the traditional "Useless Box," designed to avoid being turned off repeatedly. Unlike a normal useless box that simply turns itself off when a switch is flipped, this self-avoiding version moves or takes extra actions to prevent the user from switching it off easily.
How It Works
Basic Mechanism – When the user flips the toggle switch, a servo motor-driven hand emerges from the box and turns the switch back off.
Avoidance Behavior – Instead of always reacting the same way, the box:
Moves away (if it’s on wheels or has a motorized base).
Waits before reacting, making the user think it’s unresponsive.
Changes its response pattern, sometimes switching off, sometimes not.
Uses sensors (PIR, IR, or ultrasonic) to detect user motion and react unpredictably.
Advanced Features (Optional):
Can detect multiple switch attempts and change behavior accordingly.
Uses randomized logic to vary responses, making interactions more engaging.
Includes a directional sensor to detect where the user is and avoid them.
Components Used in a Self-Avoiding Useless Box
Microcontroller (Arduino Nano/ESP32) – Controls the motors, sensors, and logic for movement and switch handling.
Servo Motor (SG90/MG995) – Used to move the mechanical arm that flips the switch back.
DC Gear Motors (200 RPM) – Enables the box to move away when someone tries to switch it on.
Motor Driver (L298N/MX1508) – Controls the DC motors for movement.
Power Supply (12V Battery/18650 Li-ion) – Powers the motors and microcontroller.
IR or PIR Sensors – Detects user motion and prevents switching.
Ultrasonic Sensor (HC-SR04) – Helps detect obstacles and move in a different direction.
Toggle Switch – The main switch that the user flips to turn on the box.
Chassis/Enclosure – The outer case (wood/plastic/acrylic) housing all components.
Wheels & Castor Wheel – Allows smooth movement of the box.
Resistors, Wires, and Connectors – For proper circuit connections.
On/Off Power Switch – To manually turn the system on or off.
Working Logic
When the user flips the switch, the servo motor pushes the switch back.
If the user tries again, the box detects motion and moves away.
The system randomizes reactions to make it unpredictable and engaging.
This project is fun, interactive, and a great way to experiment with embedded programming, sensors, and robotics! 🤖🔧