Compliant Series Elastic Actuator Kit with Arduino Uno + Motor
Arduino-Based Series Elastic Actuator Kit: Build a Precision Torque-Sensing Motion System
Every part needed, pre-tested for compatibility, with an AI build companion trained on this exact project. Shipped from Bengaluru in 3-5 days.
Go beyond simple PWM speed control and build a series elastic actuator that measures torque in real time. A carefully chosen spring element sits between the motor and output shaft, and two AS5600 magnetic encoders capture the tiny angular deflection on either side. The Arduino Uno calculates the proportional torque, enabling closed-loop force control for robotic joints, haptic devices, or research prototypes. This kit is ideal for tackling advanced force‑feedback tasks like soft gripping and impedance control.
What You'll Build
You'll assemble a calibrated actuator that outputs position, speed, and measured torque over I2C. The OLED displays live torque values, current draw via INA219, and encoder diagnostics. This system can be mounted directly onto a robotic arm link or used as a standalone force-feedback testbed—the compliant element provides inherent safety and smoother interaction with objects, which is critical for applications involving physical human-robot interaction.
What You'll Learn
- Calibrating dual AS5600 magnetic encoders for differential angle sensing, including zero-point alignment and gain tuning
- Deriving torque from encoder deflection using spring constant calculations and linear regression
- Implementing closed‑loop force control with Arduino and L298N driver, with PID tuning for smooth response
- Multiplexing three I2C sensors via TCA9548A for synchronized data capture, avoiding address conflicts
Kit Contents
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arduino Uno R3 | 1 |
| DC Motor 12V | 1 |
| L298N Driver | 1 |
| AS5600 Encoder | 2 |
| TCA9548A I2C Mux | 1 |
| INA219 | 1 |
| 0.96in OLED | 1 |
| 100nF Caps | 10 |
| PCB Prototype Board | 2 |
| 12V 3A PSU | 1 |
| Soldering Iron | 1 |
| Solder Wire | 1 |
Why Buy This Kit Instead of Sourcing Parts Separately
| Factor | Sourcing Separately | Compoden Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility checks | You verify every part | Pre-tested as a system |
| Build support | Forums and scattered tutorials | AI companion trained on this exact project |
| Time to first working build | Days of debugging | Hours, with step-by-step guidance |
| Shipping coordination | Multiple sellers, multiple delays | One shipment from Bengaluru in 3-5 days |
Who This Kit Is For
Designed for advanced students and researchers who need accurate torque sensing in a motor drive. Typical users are B.Tech ECE/EEE students prototyping force-controlled robots for Smart India Hackathon, IIT/NIT/VIT/BITS Pilani lab researchers working on compliant actuators, and ATL tinkering lab mentors guiding advanced mechatronics projects. Prior experience with Arduino and soldering is assumed.
Built and Backed by Compoden
Every Compoden kit ships with an AI build companion trained on this exact project — accessible via a QR code on the box, with WhatsApp and email backup. We've spent 10 years building projects for makers, schools, and institutions across India. If a part fails because of a manufacturing defect, replace it free within 7 days.
What if I get stuck during the build?
The AI companion can walk you through every wire and calibration step, with interactive diagrams. You can also message us on WhatsApp for live troubleshooting during Indian business hours.
How do I calibrate the two AS5600 encoders for torque measurement?
The included guide and AI assistant provide a zero-point calibration routine using the OLED display. You'll manually twist the spring and record deflection values to set the torque baseline; the assistant then stores the calibration constants directly in the Arduino EEPROM.
Can I integrate this with ROS for a robotic arm?
Yes, the Arduino serial output can be parsed into a ROS node. The AI companion includes sample code for sending torque and angle data over USB to a PC running ROS, and we provide a ROS package template for easy integration.
What if my torque readings are noisy?
Noise is often from encoder misalignment or electrical interference. The AI companion helps you debug with I2C diagnostics and filtering algorithms like a low-pass filter, and we can guide you via WhatsApp if needed to check grounding and shielding.
Spring element between motor and output. AS5600 on each side measures deflection to calculate torque.
What's in this kit
Choose your assembly option:
- Soldering Kit — 25W soldering iron, 60/40 solder wire, flux, and small perfboard for permanent assembly.
- Breadboard Combo — 800-point full-size breadboard with 65-piece jumper wire pack for solderless prototyping.
Other projects you can build
Shipping Information
- Prepaid Orders: ₹75 for orders up to ₹999, FREE shipping above ₹999
- COD Orders: ₹125 shipping + ₹50 COD fee = ₹175 total
- Delivery Timeline: Dispatch in 1-2 days, delivery in 2-7 days depending on location
Returns & Warranty
- 7-Day Return: Manufacturing defects only (approval required)
- Warranty: 7 days from delivery
- Non-Returnable: Batteries, consumables, cut wires, clearance items