How to Use Grove Vision AI Module: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Grove Vision AI Module is a compact and powerful device that integrates artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities for image recognition and processing. Designed for ease of use, this module enables developers and hobbyists to implement vision-based applications without requiring extensive knowledge of AI or image processing. It is compatible with various development platforms, making it a versatile choice for projects involving object detection, facial recognition, and more.

• Object detection and classification
• Facial recognition and tracking
• Gesture recognition
• Smart home automation (e.g., detecting people or objects)
• Robotics and autonomous vehicles
• Industrial automation and quality control

The Grove Vision AI Module is designed to deliver high performance in a compact form factor. Below are its key technical details:

The Grove Vision AI Module features a standard Grove connector and additional pins for flexible interfacing. Below is the pin configuration:

The Grove Vision AI Module is straightforward to use and can be integrated into a variety of projects. Below are the steps and best practices for using the module.

1. Power the Module: Connect the VCC and GND pins to a 3.3V or 5V power source.
2. Choose a Communication Interface: Depending on your application, connect the module to your microcontroller or development board using UART, I2C, or SPI.
3. Connect to a Development Board: For example, connect the module to an Arduino UNO using the UART interface:
   • TX (module) → RX (Arduino)
   • RX (module) → TX (Arduino)
   • VCC → 5V (Arduino)
   • GND → GND (Arduino)
4. Upload Code: Use the provided libraries or write custom code to interact with the module.

• Ensure the module is powered within the specified voltage range (3.3V - 5V) to avoid damage.
• Use appropriate pull-up resistors for I2C communication if required.
• Avoid exposing the module to direct sunlight or extreme environmental conditions for accurate image recognition.
• Update the firmware regularly to access the latest features and improvements.

Below is an example of how to use the Grove Vision AI Module with an Arduino UNO via UART:

#include <SoftwareSerial.h>

// Define the UART pins for the Grove Vision AI Module
SoftwareSerial visionAI(2, 3); // RX, TX

void setup() {
  // Initialize serial communication
  Serial.begin(9600); // For debugging
  visionAI.begin(115200); // Communication with the module

  Serial.println("Grove Vision AI Module Test");
}

void loop() {
  // Check if data is available from the module
  if (visionAI.available()) {
    String data = visionAI.readString(); // Read data from the module
    Serial.println("Data from Vision AI Module: " + data);
  }

  // Send a test command to the module
  if (Serial.available()) {
    String command = Serial.readString();
    visionAI.println(command); // Send command to the module
  }

  delay(100); // Small delay for stability
}

• Replace 2 and 3 in SoftwareSerial with the actual pins you are using for RX and TX.
• Ensure the baud rate matches the module's default UART baud rate (115200 in this case).

1. No Response from the Module

   • Cause: Incorrect wiring or communication settings.
   • Solution: Double-check the connections and ensure the correct baud rate is set.

2. Image Recognition is Inaccurate

   • Cause: Poor lighting or incorrect positioning of the module.
   • Solution: Ensure proper lighting and position the module to face the target object directly.

3. Module Overheats

   • Cause: Operating outside the recommended voltage range or environmental conditions.
   • Solution: Verify the input voltage and ensure the module is used within the specified temperature range.

4. I2C Communication Fails

   • Cause: Missing pull-up resistors or incorrect I2C address.
   • Solution: Add pull-up resistors (4.7kΩ recommended) and verify the I2C address in the code.

• Use a multimeter to verify power supply voltage and continuity of connections.
• Test the module with a basic example code to ensure it is functioning correctly.
• Refer to the official documentation or forums for firmware updates and advanced troubleshooting.

By following this documentation, you can effectively integrate the Grove Vision AI Module into your projects and unlock its full potential for AI-powered vision applications.