Unplugged

Unplugged

High-efficiency KiCad schematic and PCB design for a Line Follower Car control system, built around the Round 2 challenge constraints.

Challenge Context

The task is to design a compact and reliable central control PCB for a Line Follower Car within a 4-hour window, using a predefined component list and chassis boundary reference.

Primary targets:

• Clean and manufacturable schematic
• Compact PCB that fits mechanical constraints
• Reliable power distribution and signal routing
• Correct interfacing of all provided modules
• Mechanical integration support through CAD

Reference problem document: Round2_PS.pdf

Project Status (Checklist)

• Schematic created in KiCad
• PCB layout created in KiCad
• CAD model included for integration
• BOM included
• Simulation screenshots included
• Design screenshots included

Repository Structure

• CAD_Files/
  • unpluggeddesign.f3d
• PCB_Files/
  • Unplugged.kicad_pro
  • Unplugged.kicad_sch
  • Unplugged.kicad_pcb
  • Unplugged.kicad_prl
  • Unplugged-backups/
  • autosave and lock files generated by KiCad during editing
• Design_Screenshots/
• PCB_Screenshots/
  • unplug.pdf
• SPICE_Simulations/
• Bill Of Materials.xlsx
• Round2_PS.pdf
• LICENSE
• README.md

Toolchain

• KiCad 9.x (project files indicate version 9 format)
• Autodesk Fusion 360 (for the CAD model)
• Spreadsheet tool (for BOM review)

Component List Snapshot

Based on Bill Of Materials.xlsx:

Estimated total BOM cost in sheet: about INR 2700.

Build and Reproduce

1. Open PCB_Files/Unplugged.kicad_pro in KiCad.
2. Review schematic in PCB_Files/Unplugged.kicad_sch.
3. Update PCB from schematic and inspect placement in PCB_Files/Unplugged.kicad_pcb.
4. Run ERC (schematic) and DRC (PCB).
5. Confirm board outline and mounting alignment with the chassis reference from Round2_PS.pdf.
6. Generate manufacturing files:
   • Gerbers
   • Drill files
   • Position files
   • Updated BOM export (optional)

Mechanical Integration

The CAD model is available in CAD_Files/unpluggeddesign.f3d for validating:

• Board fit inside the line follower chassis envelope
• Mounting compatibility and access clearance
• Cable and connector accessibility
• Practical thermal spacing around power modules

Submission and Review Artifacts

Use these folders for final reporting or evaluation:

• Design_Screenshots for CAD and design visuals
• PCB_Screenshots for PCB views and exports
• SPICE_Simulations for circuit behavior evidence
• Bill Of Materials.xlsx for procurement and cost
• Round2_PS.pdf for original task context

Notes

• Temporary lock, cache, and autosave files in PCB_Files are normal during active KiCad sessions.
• Timestamped recovery archives are available in PCB_Files/Unplugged-backups.

License

See LICENSE.