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mbots - graphical programming and Arduino

Makeblock (http://mblock.cc/mbot/) funded through Kickstarter the development of a new robot - mBot (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1818505613/mbot-49-educational-robot-for-each-kid) with the subtitle "$49 educational robot for each kid". What they came up with is a interesting system that uses their mBlock software, which resembles Scratch but produces code for Arduino, to program a robot with LEDs, light sensors and buzzer integrated on the main board; but also comes with sensors for line-following, ultrasonic sensor and with the version in the kickstarter reward a 16x8 LED matrix.

 My impression so far it is really quite intuitive to work with, in the example above the robot:

  • moves forward;
  • displays 'f' on the LED matrix; 
  • turns right;
  • displays 'r' on the LED matrix;
  • repeats until the on-board is pressed to stop the motors. 
What I like most though is seeing the graphical code turned into Arduino code - the potential to see the same thing done into two ways adds extra educational value. 
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All opinions in this blog are the Author's and should not in any way be seen as reflecting the views of any organisation the Author has any association with.
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