Projects / Gyro Leveling Platform
Gyro Leveling Platform
Build a self-leveling birch tray driven by an MPU6050 IMU and two SG90/MG90 servos. The platform measures pitch and roll, then commands the servos to keep a payload level—a hands-on intro to closed-loop control.
$12 Control
Digital guide + cut files + BOM + code · Parts sourced separately · Ages 8–14 with adult help
IMUMPU6050
Servos2× SG90/MG90
Structure3mm birch gimbal tray
ControllerArduino Uno
Build time3–6 hours
Skill levelIntermediate
Pack contents
- Tray, outer/inner frames, base SVGs
- Assemble → wire → calibrate → tune loop guide
- First-principles: pitch/roll, proportional control
- Full dual-servo IMU sketch
- Verified BOM
Typical hardware cost
Default structure is laser-cut birch plywood with real fasteners and hobby electronics you can source—honest BOM, not mystery modules.
- ~$34–128 in typical parts (makerspace cut toward the low end; mail-order toward the high end)
- Digital pack price ≠ hardware
The $12 pack is the digital guide + cut files + BOM + lessons + code, plus printable Builder's Corner build journal pages. Hardware is sourced separately — see Where to get kit materials. Buy with Stripe is live below.
Questions? Email us at lance.haney@gmail.com.
Pricing
- Home / Personal license $12
- Classroom license $45 — 1 teacher, up to 30 studentsOne $45 Classroom license covers one group of up to 30 students. Each additional group needs another license.
- Build materials available at cost + 10% — email for a quote
Learning outcomes
- Explain pitch vs roll on a 2-DOF gimbal
- Wire MPU6050 over I²C with a sensible 5 V servo rail
- Convert accelerometer data to approximate tilt
- Close the loop with proportional servo commands