Propose a final project masterpiece that integrates the range of units covered, answering:
I would like to provide the basic components for a modular Open Source robot system.
I want to enable motivated hobbyists to easily build a great variety of inexpensive robots.
But that's not all. After you have built one or two robots from the existing parts you can change the basic parts
of the
robots in a 3D software and print your own parts.
A first sketch can be seen in the first week.
The system and also the electonics should be as open and diverse as possible,
so that a wide variety of circuit boards can be installed. The self-developed
circuit boards should not be hidden, but also as accessible as possible to understand how they work.
There are already different robot systems on the market.
I have tried out some of them myself but also often reached the limits where my creativity was limited or the cost
of the equipment was too high.
The systems can have both advantages and disadvantages. In order to show these as clearly as possible, I have
created a table to collect all the relevant data for me.
I have exclusively chosen systems which contain both the building of own robots and the programming.
| System | can the electronics be expanded | can the other parts be expanded | has someone made 3D printed parts | Flexibility | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lego Minstorms EV3 | difficult | for money | yes | yes | ca 400 - 500 € |
| Makeblock | easy | for money | no | ok | ca 100 - 300 € |
| Fischertechnik Robotics | medium | for money | no | ok | ca 400 - 500 € |
When comparing systems, each has its strengths and weaknesses. They all have a main board which can use different actuators and sensors. It is difficult or impossible to connect these different systems and programs and external sensors. But all of them are very expensive if you want to build big things or want/need multiple robots.
What will I design? Almost anything! All right, all the fun I can handle. I've already started with both electrics and 3D printing. The main block for my robot system I have been working on in many different ways. But I am still looking for the best way to connect the blocks. Furthermore I want to develop adapters for some sensors and actuators. At the electronic department I am working on a special system for the boards where you can create your own adapter and plug it on the motherboard. I also want to build a transport box for the robot so that you can transport the parts and the built robots safely.
Let's take a look at what we need.
The price calculation is for one modular robot set.| What | Materials/Components | Source | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3D printed parts | ABS/PLA | fablab | 30 € |
| Magnets | Magnets | shop | 20€ |
| Electronic | Platse, LED, Resistors, ICs, etc | shop/fablab | 50€ |
| Robot home | Wood | fablab | 10€ |
The total costs for a set therefore amount to approx 110€
I will manufacture all parts of the system myself, the 3D printed components as well as the circuit boards and the transport box.
The basic components of the robot system I will be using the 3D printers and furthermore, I would like to try if it is possible to cast them. The boards will be milled and assembled by myself. The transport box will be produced partly with the lasercutter and partly with the Shaper Origin.
The first question is how do I develop the system so that the blocks fit well together but still can be easily separated and put together.
What is my user group and what are their requirements for a modular robot system?