Arduino Motor Scheduler

This application allows you to schedule stepper motor movements for an Arduino over serial communication.

Requirements

Python Application

• Python 3.7+
• PySerial
• CustomTkinter
• Schedule

Arduino

• Arduino board (tested with Arduino Uno)
• Stepper motor
• Stepper motor driver
• ArduinoJson library

Installation

1. Install Python dependencies:

pip install -r requirements.txt

2. Install the ArduinoJson library in your Arduino IDE

   • Open Arduino IDE
   • Go to Tools > Manage Libraries
   • Search for "ArduinoJson"
   • Install version 6.x or later

3. Upload the motor_controller.ino sketch to your Arduino

Hardware Setup

Connect your stepper motor and driver to the Arduino:

• Step pin -> Arduino pin 3
• Direction pin -> Arduino pin 4
• Connect power and ground according to your motor driver's specifications

Usage

1. Run the Python application:

python motor_scheduler.py

2. In the application:
   • Enter your Arduino's serial port (e.g., COM3 on Windows or /dev/ttyUSB0 on Linux/Mac)
   • Set the baud rate (default 9600)
   • Click "Connect"
   • Add scheduled moves by specifying:
     • Time (HH:MM format)
     • Direction (clockwise/counterclockwise)
     • Number of steps
   • Click "Start Scheduler" to begin executing scheduled moves

Notes

• The scheduler will run continuously until stopped
• Scheduled moves will repeat daily at the specified times
• Make sure your Arduino is connected before starting the scheduler
• The application uses JSON for communication with the Arduino

Troubleshooting

1. If you can't connect to the Arduino:

   • Check that the correct port is selected
   • Verify the Arduino is properly connected
   • Make sure no other program is using the serial port

2. If the motor doesn't move:

   • Check your wiring
   • Verify the motor driver is properly powered
   • Check the serial monitor for any error messages