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Project 1.14.1:Servo-Controlled Drawbridge

Description This project simulates a drawbridge using a servo motor. A push button is used to raise and lower the bridge manually. Each press of the button changes the bridge position between lowered and raised states.
Use case Bridge automation systems, mechanical movement demonstrations, smart transportation models, STEM engineering projects.

Components (Things You will need)

Arduino Uno Arduino USB Cable Breadboard Jumper Wires Push Button Resistors Servo Motor

Things Needed:

  • Arduino Uno = 1
  • Arduino USB cable = 1
  • Push button = 1
  • Jumper wires
  • Breadboard = 1
  • Servo Motor = 1
  • Resistors

Mounting the component on the breadboard

Step 1: Place the push button on the breadboard. Connect one leg to 5V and the opposite leg to Digital Pin 2. Connect one leg of a resistor to the same row as the push button leg connected to Pin 2, then connect the other leg of the resistor to GND.

inseting push button.

Step 2: Connect the brown wire to GND, the red wire to 5V, and the orange wire to Digital Pin 9 on the Arduino.

inseting push button.

Step 3: After completing the wiring, connect the Arduino Uno to the computer using the USB cable.

PROGRAMMING

Step 1: Open your Arduino IDE. See how to set up here: Getting Started.

Step 2: Type the following codes;

code 1.

code 2.

code 3.

Uploading the code

Step 1: Save your code. See the Getting Started section

Step 2: Select the arduino board and port See the Getting Started section:Selecting Arduino Board Type and Uploading your code.

Step 3: Upload your code. See the Getting Started section:Selecting Arduino Board Type and Uploading your code

OBERVATION

  • The bridge starts in the lowered position.

  • Pressing the button raises the bridge smoothly.

  • Pressing the button again lowers the bridge smoothly.

  • The servo rotates approximately 90° during each movement.

  • The Serial Monitor displays the bridge status.

CONCLUSION

This project demonstrates servo motor control, digital input handling, mechanical movement simulation, and state-based operation. It provides a practical introduction to automated bridge systems and real-world engineering mechanisms used in transportation and infrastructure.