This paper presents the design and development of an Arduino-based metal-detecting robot controlled via a

thinking approach. The project aimed to create a low-cost and user-friendly robotic system that helps

limitations in detection range, battery life, and obstacle avoidance, leading to further adjustment focused on

enhancing functionality and adaptability. This human-driven approach emphasized the importance of

continuous innovation based on user feedback and technical constraints. The findings demonstrate the potential

of design thinking in robotics development, encouraging solutions tailored for practical implementation in

industrial safety and education, with future improvements in mind to increase versatility and performance

reliability.

Technological advancements in robotics and automation have enabled the creation of innovative systems

capable of performing tasks with high efficiency, safety, and accuracy. Within this field, metal-detecting robots

smartphone control, an L298N motor driver for mobility, and a metal detector sensor. The prototyping and

testing phases were done step by step with focusing on optimizing both function reliability and real-time user

notification upon detection.

The project is motivated by the growing need for automated solutions that can operate in hazardous

environments that contribute to minimizing human risk. The final design offers a cost effective and adaptable

platform suitable for educational, industrial, and personal use. This paper discusses the system's design

process, hardware implementation, and performance evaluation

This literature review focuses on current research related with the application of the Design Thinking approach

education systems which includes engineering programs. The paper explores design thinking as a human-

centered, collaborative approach that promotes innovative mindsets. The paper highlights pedagogical models

that prepare students for dynamic problem-solving and design challenges. The model also promotes leadership,

creativity, and social responsibility in engineering contexts.

Fitriyah (2025) analyzed design thinking research trends over the past decade and emphasize on its growth in

engineering education globally. The review identifies design thinking as a driving force for interdisciplinarity,

creativity, and applied innovation among students. It supports for design thinking in education that cultivates

skills in problem framing and solving, ideation, prototyping, and testing, is crucial for engineering graduates

that are bound to face technological and social challenges

These papers collectively highlight the design thinking's important role in transforming engineering education

The testing for the metal detection sensor was also done. The system successfully performed its basic

functions: the robot car accurately responded to commands for forward, backward, left, and right motion, while

the metal detector reliably identified objects and triggered a buzzer alert when object is detected within range.

However, several limitations were identified. The operational range of the robot car was constrained to only 20

meters due to the Bluetooth connection. Beyond this range, the robot car would disconnect from the phone.

The metal detector's sensitivity, while functional, was susceptible to environmental factors such as distance and

minimal interference. The range of metal detection is short with only in the range of 1-2.5 cm. Furthermore,

the operational time was limited to approximately 20 minutes due to the 6V power supply used. The robot

operated effectively on hard surfaces with smooth movement and performing its detection function seamlessly

but struggle to detect accurately when tested on a grassy or sandy surface. Further improvements can be made

Table 1 shows the testing done to confirm the range of the metal detector. The metal detector module only able

to detect object when it is in the sensor range, which is between 1cm to 2.5 cm.

This project was motivated by the need to solve the challenge of locating lost metallic objects while

minimizing human involvement that can decreases the potential for fatality. Following the principles of design

solutions, and prototyping using affordable and available components. This approach ensured the built is a

limited operational time due to battery usage. These insights present opportunities for future improvement to

enhance functionality, including extending sensing distance and improving power longevity.

I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to all those who have supported and help throughout the

process of completing this paper. Many thanks to all writers and colleagues.