Arduino Radar Project Setup

Components Needed:

• Arduino Mega 2560
• HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor
• SG90 Servo Motor (or similar)
• Jumper wires
• Breadboard
• USB cable

Wiring Connections:

HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor:

• VCC → 5V on Arduino
• GND → GND on Arduino
• Trig → Digital Pin 9
• Echo → Digital Pin 10

SG90 Servo Motor:

• Red (VCC) → 5V on Arduino
• Brown/Black (GND) → GND on Arduino
• Orange/Yellow (Signal) → Digital Pin 6

How It Works:

1. Servo Sweep: The servo motor rotates from 0° to 180° and back, carrying the ultrasonic sensor
2. Distance Measurement: At each angle, the ultrasonic sensor measures the distance to any objects
3. Data Transmission: The Arduino sends angle and distance data via serial communication
4. Visualization: The data can be displayed on the radar screen visualization

Key Features:

• 180° scanning range with 2-degree increments
• Distance range up to 200cm (adjustable in code)
• Real-time data transmission via Serial Monitor
• Smooth servo movement with proper delays
• Error handling for out-of-range measurements

Usage Instructions:

1. Upload the Arduino code to your Arduino Mega
2. Connect components according to the wiring diagram
3. Open Serial Monitor (9600 baud rate) to see raw data
4. Use the radar visualization by opening the HTML file in a web browser for a graphical display

Customization Options:

• Adjust scanning speed: Change the delay values in the main loop
• Modify angle increment: Change the direction * 2 value for finer/coarser steps
• Set distance limits: Modify the maximum distance in measureDistance()
• Add object detection: Implement logic to detect and track specific objects

The project outputs data in CSV format (angle,distance) which can be easily processed by other applications or the provided visualization interface. The radar will continuously sweep and display objects in real-time, creating a classic radar sweep effect!

Setup Instructions

Step 1: Upload Arduino Code

1. Upload the Arduino radar code I provided earlier to your Arduino Mega
2. Open the Serial Monitor to verify it's sending data in format: angle,distance

Step 2: Choose Your Visualization Method

Option A: Processing IDE (Easiest)

1. Download Processing IDE from processing.org
2. Create a new sketch and paste the Processing radar code
3. Find your serial port:
   • Run the sketch once to see available ports in the console
   • Note the port number (usually 0 for the first Arduino)
4. Modify the connection line if needed:

   myPort = new Serial(this, Serial.list()[0], 9600);  // Change [0] to correct index

5. Run the sketch and you should see the radar display!

Option B: Python with Pygame

1. Install required libraries:

   pip install pygame pyserial

2. Find your serial port:
   • Windows: Usually COM3, COM4, etc. (check Device Manager)
   • Linux: Usually /dev/ttyUSB0 or /dev/ttyACM0
   • Mac: Usually /dev/cu.usbmodem... or /dev/cu.usbserial...
3. Update the serial port in the Python code:

   radar = RadarDisplay(serial_port='YOUR_PORT_HERE', baud_rate=9600)

4. Run the Python script

Step 3: Troubleshooting

If no data appears:

• Check serial port connection
• Verify Arduino is sending data (use Serial Monitor)
• Make sure baud rates match (9600)
• Try different serial port numbers/names

Common Serial Ports:

• Windows: COM1, COM3, COM4, etc.
• Linux: /dev/ttyACM0, /dev/ttyUSB0
• Mac: /dev/cu.usbmodem14101, /dev/cu.usbserial-1410

Features You'll Get:

✅ Real-time radar sweep just like the simulation
✅ Object detection shown as red dots
✅ Fading trail effects for smooth visualization
✅ Live data display showing current angle/distance
✅ Grid overlay with distance markers
✅ Object persistence to track detected items

The Processing version is generally easier to set up and more beginner-friendly, while the Python version offers more customization options. Both will give you the exact radar visualization effect from the simulation!

Pro tip: Start with Processing first since it's designed specifically for Arduino projects and handles serial communication very smoothly.

Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions for Processing IDE Radar Display

Step 1: Download and Install Processing IDE

1. Go to the Processing website:
   • Open your web browser
   • Navigate to https://processing.org/download
2. Download Processing:
   • Click the "Download Processing" button
   • Choose your operating system (Windows, Mac, or Linux)
   • The download will start automatically (file will be around 100-200MB)
3. Install Processing:
   • Windows: Run the .exe file and follow the installation wizard
   • Mac: Open the .dmg file and drag Processing to your Applications folder
   • Linux: Extract the .tar.gz file to your preferred location
4. Launch Processing:
   • Open Processing from your Start Menu (Windows), Applications (Mac), or extracted folder (Linux)
   • You should see a white text editor window with a toolbar at the top

Step 2: Prepare Your Arduino

1. Make sure your Arduino is connected to your computer via USB
2. Verify the Arduino code is uploaded and working:
   • Open Arduino IDE
   • Go to Tools → Serial Monitor
   • Set baud rate to 9600
   • You should see data like: 0,45 then 2,47 then 4,52 etc.
   • If you don't see data, re-upload the Arduino radar code

Step 3: Create the Processing Sketch

1. Open Processing (if not already open)
2. Clear the default code:
   • You'll see some sample code in the editor
   • Select all text (Ctrl+A on Windows/Linux, Cmd+A on Mac)
   • Delete it all
3. Copy the radar code:
   • Go back to the Processing radar code I provided earlier
   • Select ALL the code (Ctrl+A or Cmd+A)
   • Copy it (Ctrl+C or Cmd+C)
4. Paste into Processing:
   • Click in the Processing editor window
   • Paste the code (Ctrl+V or Cmd+V)
   • The editor should now be filled with the radar visualization code

Step 4: Find Your Serial Port (IMPORTANT!)

1. Run the sketch to check available ports:
   • Click the Play button (triangle icon) in the Processing toolbar
   • OR press Ctrl+R (Windows/Linux) or Cmd+R (Mac)
2. Check the console output:
   • Look at the black console area at the bottom of the Processing window
   • You should see something like:

     Available serial ports:
     0: COM3
     1: COM4
     2: COM7

 OR on Mac/Linux:

     0: /dev/cu.usbmodem14101
     1: /dev/cu.Bluetooth-Incoming-Port
     2: /dev/ttyACM0

3. Identify your Arduino port:
   • Windows: Usually COM3, COM4, COM5, etc.
   • Mac: Usually starts with /dev/cu.usbmodem or /dev/cu.usbserial
   • Linux: Usually /dev/ttyACM0 or /dev/ttyUSB0
   • Note the number (0, 1, 2, etc.) next to your Arduino's port

Step 5: Configure the Serial Port

1. Stop the current sketch (click the Stop button - square icon)
2. Find the serial connection line in the code:
   • Look for this line (around line 40):

     myPort = new Serial(this, Serial.list()[0], 9600);

3. Change the port number if needed:
   • If your Arduino was listed as "0:" in step 4, keep [0]
   • If your Arduino was listed as "1:", change to [1]
   • If your Arduino was listed as "2:", change to [2]
   • Example: If your Arduino is on port 1, change the line to:

     myPort = new Serial(this, Serial.list()[1], 9600);

Step 6: Run the Radar Display

1. Save your sketch (Ctrl+S or Cmd+S)
   • Give it a name like "ArduinoRadar"
   • Choose a location to save it
2. Run the sketch again:
   • Click the Play button or press Ctrl+R/Cmd+R
3. Check for success:
   • A new window should open showing the radar display
   • You should see:
     • Green radar grid with concentric circles
     • Angle lines at 30-degree intervals
     • A green sweep line moving back and forth
     • Red dots appearing when objects are detected
     • An info panel showing current readings

Troubleshooting

Problem: "Error connecting to serial port"

Solution:

1. Make sure Arduino is plugged in via USB
2. Close Arduino IDE Serial Monitor if it's open
3. Try a different port number in the code:

   myPort = new Serial(this, Serial.list()[1], 9600);  // Try [1] instead of [0]

Problem: No data appearing on radar

Solution:

1. Open Arduino Serial Monitor to verify data is being sent
2. Check that baud rates match (9600 in both Arduino and Processing)
3. Make sure Arduino radar code is actually running

Problem: "Port in use" error

Solution:

1. Close Arduino Serial Monitor
2. Close any other programs that might be using the serial port
3. Unplug and replug the Arduino USB cable
4. Try running the Processing sketch again

Problem: Console shows "Array out of bounds"

Solution:

1. This means the port number is wrong
2. Check the available ports list again
3. Use a port number that actually exists (0, 1, 2, etc.)

Problem: Radar window opens but is black/blank

Solution:

1. Check the console for error messages
2. Make sure the Arduino is sending data in the correct format: angle,distance
3. Try unplugging and replugging the Arduino

Expected Result

When everything works correctly, you should see:

• A dark green radar screen with grid lines
• A bright green sweep line rotating from 0° to 180° and back
• Red dots appearing where objects are detected
• Real-time data in the info panel showing current angle and distance
• Console output showing: "Angle: 45°, Distance: 73cm" etc.

Keyboard Controls

Once running, you can use these keys:

• 'C' - Clear all detected objects from the display
• 'R' - Reconnect to the serial port
• Close the window - Stop the radar display

The radar will continuously scan and display objects in real-time, just like a real radar system!

Key Features of the TFT Radar Design

This redesigned version creates a completely standalone radar unit with the display built right in! Here's what makes it special:

🎯 Real-Time Radar Display

• 240x320 pixel resolution with smooth graphics
• Classic green radar grid with distance circles and angle lines
• Animated sweep line that moves smoothly across the display
• Red object dots that appear when something is detected
• Fading trail effect behind the sweep line

📊 Information Dashboard

• Live readings: Current angle and distance
• Object counter: Number of detected objects
• Scan progress bar: Visual indication of sweep position
• System status: Shows scanning direction and range
• Professional layout with bordered info panels

🔧 Advanced Features

• Object persistence: Detected objects stay visible for 5 seconds
• Automatic fading: Older objects gradually dim and disappear
• Efficient drawing: Only updates changed screen areas
• Smooth servo control: Precise 3-degree increments
• Range filtering: Ignores invalid readings beyond 200cm

💡 Benefits Over Computer Version

• ✅ Completely portable - no computer needed
• ✅ Instant startup - no software to launch
• ✅ Professional appearance - looks like real radar equipment
• ✅ Lower cost - no need for expensive computer
• ✅ Educational value - learn TFT graphics programming
• ✅ Standalone operation - perfect for demonstrations

🎨 Visual Appeal

The display shows a classic radar screen with:

• Dark background with green grid lines
• Bright green sweep line with trailing fade effect
• Red dots for detected objects
• Clean, readable text displays
• Progress indicators and status information

This creates a professional-looking radar system that operates independently and provides all the visual feedback you need right on the built-in display!

Arduino Radar with 2.8" TFT Display - Complete Setup Guide

Components Required

Main Components

• Arduino Mega 2560 (required for multiple SPI pins)
• 2.8" TFT SPI Display 240x320 v1.2 (ILI9341 controller)
• HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor
• SG90 Servo Motor

Additional Components

• Jumper wires (male-to-male and male-to-female)
• Breadboard (half-size or full-size)
• USB cable for Arduino
• External power supply (9V adapter recommended for servo)

Required Libraries

Install these libraries through Arduino IDE Library Manager:

1. Adafruit GFX Library - For graphics functions
2. Adafruit ILI9341 - For TFT display control
3. SPI - Built-in library for SPI communication

Installation Steps:

1. Open Arduino IDE
2. Go to Sketch → Include Library → Manage Libraries
3. Search for "Adafruit GFX" and install
4. Search for "Adafruit ILI9341" and install
5. SPI library is built-in (no installation needed)

Wiring Connections

2.8" TFT Display (ILI9341) → Arduino Mega

TFT Pin    →  Arduino Mega Pin
VCC        →  3.3V (NOT 5V!)
GND        →  GND
CS         →  Digital Pin 53
RESET      →  Digital Pin 8
DC/RS      →  Digital Pin 7
SDI/MOSI   →  Digital Pin 51
SCK        →  Digital Pin 52
LED        →  3.3V (backlight)
SDO/MISO   →  Digital Pin 50

HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor → Arduino Mega

Sensor Pin →  Arduino Mega Pin
VCC        →  5V
GND        →  GND
Trig       →  Digital Pin 9
Echo       →  Digital Pin 10

SG90 Servo Motor → Arduino Mega

Servo Wire →  Arduino Mega Pin
Red (VCC)  →  5V
Brown/Black→  GND
Orange     →  Digital Pin 6

Complete Wiring Diagram

Arduino Mega 2560
┌─────────────────────────────────────┐
│  Digital Pins        Analog Pins    │
│  ┌─────────────┐    ┌──────────┐   │
│  │ 53 → TFT CS │    │          │   │
│  │ 52 → TFT SCK│    │          │   │
│  │ 51 → TFT MOSI    │          │   │
│  │ 50 → TFT MISO    │          │   │
│  │  9 → US TRIG│    │          │   │
│  │ 10 → US ECHO│    │          │   │
│  │  8 → TFT RST│    │          │   │
│  │  7 → TFT DC │    │          │   │
│  │  6 → SERVO  │    │          │   │
│  └─────────────┘    └──────────┘   │
│                                     │
│  Power Pins                         │
│  5V  → Servo VCC, Ultrasonic VCC    │
│  3.3V→ TFT VCC, TFT LED             │
│  GND → All GND connections          │
└─────────────────────────────────────┘

Physical Assembly Instructions

Step 1: Mount the Servo and Sensor

1. Attach ultrasonic sensor to servo horn:
   • Use small screws or strong double-sided tape
   • Position sensor so it faces forward when servo is at 90°
   • Ensure wires don't interfere with servo rotation
2. Mount servo to base:
   • Use servo mounting screws
   • Position so it can rotate freely 180°
   • Secure to breadboard or project box

Step 2: Connect TFT Display

1. IMPORTANT: TFT display uses 3.3V, NOT 5V!
2. Connect power first:
   • VCC to 3.3V pin on Arduino
   • GND to GND
   • LED (backlight) to 3.3V
3. Connect SPI pins:
   • Follow the wiring table above exactly
   • Use short, direct connections for best signal quality
   • Avoid crossing wires over each other

Step 3: Connect Sensors

1. Ultrasonic sensor:
   • Mount on servo horn facing forward
   • Connect with longer wires to allow servo movement
   • Secure connections with heat shrink or tape
2. Servo motor:
   • Connect signal wire to pin 6
   • Ensure good power connection (servo draws current)

Power Requirements

Option 1: USB Power Only

• Good for testing with small servo loads
• May cause voltage drops with heavy servo movement
• Arduino gets power via USB

Option 2: External Power (Recommended)

• 9V power adapter to Arduino barrel jack
• More stable power for servo operation
• Better performance during continuous scanning

Software Setup

Step 1: Upload Code

1. Open Arduino IDE
2. Copy and paste the TFT radar code
3. Select Arduino Mega 2560 from Tools → Board
4. Select correct COM port from Tools → Port
5. Click Upload

Step 2: Test Display

1. Power on Arduino
2. TFT should show:
   • "RADAR SCAN" title
   • Green radar grid with circles and angle lines
   • Info panel with current readings
   • Sweeping green line

Step 3: Verify Sensor Operation

1. Place objects at different distances
2. Watch for red dots appearing on radar
3. Check info panel shows correct angle/distance
4. Verify servo sweeps smoothly 0-180°

Troubleshooting

TFT Display Issues

Black/blank screen:

• Check 3.3V power connection (NOT 5V!)
• Verify SPI wiring (especially MOSI, SCK, CS)
• Check library installation

Garbled display:

• Wrong SPI connections
• Interference from long wires
• Try different CS/DC/RST pins

No backlight:

• Connect LED pin to 3.3V
• Some displays have separate backlight control

Sensor Issues

No distance readings:

• Check ultrasonic sensor wiring
• Verify 5V power to sensor
• Test with Serial Monitor

Servo not moving:

• Check power supply (servo needs good 5V)
• Verify signal wire connection
• Test servo separately

Objects not showing:

• Verify sensor is mounted straight
• Check distance calculation in code
• Objects must be within 200cm range

Performance Issues

Slow/jerky movement:

• Reduce scan delay in code
• Use external power supply
• Check for electrical interference

Missing objects:

• Increase scan delay for better readings
• Check sensor mounting alignment
• Verify distance calculation

Customization Options

Display Settings

#define RADAR_RADIUS   80    // Smaller radar circle
#define MAX_DISTANCE   150   // Shorter range
#define ANGLE_STEP     5     // Faster scanning

Colors

#define COLOR_SWEEP     0x07FF  // Cyan sweep line
#define COLOR_OBJECT    0xFFE0  // Yellow objects
#define COLOR_GRID      0x0010  // Dim green grid

Scanning Speed

const int scanDelay = 50;   // Faster scanning
const int scanDelay = 200;  // Slower, more accurate

Expected Results

When working correctly, you should see:

✅ Smooth radar sweep from 0° to 180° and back
✅ Real-time object detection shown as red dots
✅ Live information display with angle, distance, object count
✅ Progress bar showing scan position
✅ Fade effect for older objects
✅ Professional radar appearance with green grid and sweep line

The display will show a classic radar interface with all information self-contained on the TFT screen, making it a completely standalone radar unit!

Pro Tips

1. Use short, quality wires for TFT connections to avoid signal issues
2. Mount components securely to prevent loose connections during servo movement
3. Test each component separately before final assembly
4. Use external power for best servo performance
5. Keep sensor clean for accurate distance readings