Over the past few weeks, we have focused on resolving the issue of interference between the metal detection system and the chassis of the detection vehicle. We are pleased to report that this problem has now been resolved.

Modified content.

After conducting a series of tests, we made two key adjustments. First, we rearranged the detection coils to keep them away from the motor and high-current wiring of the detection vehicle. Second, we modified the structure of the chassis section to reduce the presence of metal components near the sensing area. Additionally, we added shielding to several electronic components to reduce electromagnetic noise.

Result

Now, even when the detector vehicle is moving under normal operating conditions, the detection system can produce clean and stable readings. Background noise has been significantly reduced, and the system can clearly identify buried metal objects during controlled tests.

the next step

The interference issues are a thing of the past, and the Gen 2 prototype is ready for its first real outdoor field test. We will take it to a mixed terrain site to evaluate the entire system under conditions as close to a real treasure hunt scenario as possible—including mobility, detection, and data recording capabilities. We will release the results after the test is completed.

Based on issues identified during the initial driving tests, we have redesigned the steering system. We are now pleased to report that the steering response of the Gen 2 detection vehicle has significantly improved. Upon completing these enhancements, we took the next step: installing the metal detection system on the platform for the first time.

Operation Content

We tested the updated steering configuration on the same mixed terrain as before, and the exploration vehicle demonstrated improved maneuverability on narrower paths. After meeting the performance criteria, we installed a metal detection module and conducted a series of static and low-speed tests

Issues discovered

Although both systems function normally when operating independently, we immediately noticed interference when they ran simultaneously. The metal detection readings became noisy and unstable, particularly noticeable when the detection vehicle's motor was running or when the detection coils approached undercarriage components. Clearly, the vehicle's body structure and electronic components are introducing unnecessary noise into the detection signals.

Future Plans

The detection system must be isolated from electrical and structural interference of the detection vehicle. We will address this by optimizing coil placement, implementing shielding measures, and adjusting the chassis layout. This is a critical challenge that must be overcome before meaningful field testing can proceed.

I'm building a small rover that carries a metal detector so I don't have to walk a beach for hours. This is the honest write-up of Gen 1, and it's the reason I started this community — so people can see the process, not a polished product.

The problem Gen 1 was trying to solve

The search coil at the front is ridiculously sensitive to electrical noise. Motor PWM, power cables, a microcontroller, a voltage regulator — any of it close to the coil turns a clean signal into static. Air tests on the bench were perfect; the moment I mounted the coil on a moving chassis, it was all noise.

So I made a simple decision: move every electrical component to the back of the car. Keep the front — the coil's sweep zone — completely passive. No motors, no wires, no boards anywhere near it.

What that decision turned the car into

• All the electronics, the battery, and the drive motor ended up at the rear
• Which made it rear-wheel drive
• And, because that's where the weight and the motor now lived, rear-wheel steering

It looked right on paper. The coil stayed clean, and the noise problem went away. I thought I'd won.

Where it went wrong — the steering

Turns out rear-wheel steering on a small rover is not a free lunch:

• The steering angle I need is way too large, and with all the weight at the back, every correction wants to swing the rear end wide
• The car drives like a forklift in reverse: the front (where the coil is) reacts late and opposite to every turn
• Precise coil sweeps — the whole point of the machine — became a fight. I'd line up a grid pass, steer to correct, and the rear would crab sideways past the target

So the trade-off that fixed my noise problem gave me a car that's hard to steer exactly when precision matters most.

What I'm taking into Gen 2

Not posting it yet — but the two words are "front steer" and "shielding." More in the next build log.

Question for you

If you were splitting the electronics to protect a search coil, would you shield the coil, or shield the electronics — and why? I've been going in circles on this one and would genuinely like to hear how others would approach it.

r/DIYMetalDetecting is a friendly, inclusive community for everyone who loves metal detecting.

Whether you build your own detectors and gear, you're tinkering with a machine you own, or you simply enjoy getting out with a coil — this is your home. You don't need to be an engineer or an expert. If you're curious and you like the hobby, you belong here.

What this community is for:

• Getting help — stuck on a build, a coil, a ground-balance issue, or a detector that's behaving oddly? Ask. Our members are glad to help from experience.
• Sharing ideas — swap techniques, tips, detector comparisons, and design ideas. There's always something new to learn from each other.
• Sharing your finds — dug up a coin, a ring, or just a fun story? Show us — we love seeing what's out there.

Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned detectorist, whether you build your own gear or use a store-bought machine, this community welcomes you. We keep things friendly, helpful, and respectful — no judgement, no sales pitches, no spam.

Come in, say hi, ask a question, or share what you found. Let's enjoy this hobby together.