Using an Optical Mouse to guide a Robot

Hello Everyone,

I am currently working on a BB8 and trying to get it to follow a coordinate system. Currently the robot is being controlled via a Bluetooth connection to my tablet (remote control). Now I am trying to get it to follow this system so that it can be programmed to move itself through a maze. However, my research has not been successful. I have tried using the connectors from the inside of the mouse and connected it to an arduino however, it may have been damaged or otherwise not working.

What I am here to ask is how i can use an optical mouse's x and y coordinate tracking to develop a grid so that points can be programmed for the robot to follow. Once this is done I would need further assistance on another portion of this project however this is my main concern. I currently have access to different Optical mice, Arduino Unos, HC-05 Bluetooth receiver/transmitter, and should be able to get hands on anything, within reason, to help my end goal.

I appreciate any help that anyone can offer, and I will be happy to clarify any questions that you may have so that I can continue this project!

What I am here to ask is how i can use an optical mouse's x and y coordinate tracking to develop a grid so that points can be programmed for the robot to follow.

You need to elaborate more on this.

But, first, are you able to read the optical mouse's coordinates? Do the value make sense to you?

Where do you plan to define this grid? For what purpose?

Have you looked for tutorials on reading mouse encoders?

A mouse is not an exact input device.
It works on a computer because you use it to move the pointer until the pointer gets to where you want it.
Without the screen, it is not very easy to use it to enter exact values.
As you move it in any particular direction, small changes in how you hold it turn the mouse relative to the movement direction, translating some of the movement into input along the perpendicular axis.

however you DO decide to define the desired navigation coordinates, how do you intend to guide your BB8?
Again, guiding it by remote control uses YOU as the navigation system. If you want to make it autonomous, you will not have the correction factor in place that you previously provided.

Want to experiment? Plan a route. Up for 1 second. Left for half a second. Down for 1 second. Right for half a second.
Close your eyes and control your BB8.

Did it end up where you started? Repeatedly?
If your arduino is going to tell the BB8 to move in a particular way without and location awareness, you will not be happy with your results.