New unicorn robot

For a few weeks I have had this kit - Smartibot - waiting to play with - finally got around to it. A cardboard-based, app-controlled, AI-enabled robot kit - now that is too tempting!

The kit comes with the parts for one of three models,  including a unicorn robot. A battery pack (takes 4xAA batteries not included), two motors, a bunch of nuts and bolts, 2 screwdrivers, 3 plastic balls, 2 wheel hubs, bunch of elastic bands and a very cute control board. The rest is cardboard including the wheels. The control board seems under-utilised for this task, even on a quick scan; on their kickstarter site, they show it controlling 4 DC motors and 10 servos. 

I was initially concerned it wouldn't have the rigidity needed; it does (even after being accidentally dropped down a flight of stairs) 

The app is free to download for both Apple (see below) and Android. The AI bit initially (certainly on IoS) comes from a cool routine that uses a phone's camera to move when it 'sees' a person.

It was a positive experience to build it; apart from adding batteries, everything was in the box or downloadable. The kit is available to pre-order at http://thecraftyrobot.net/wp/product/smartibot-basic-kit-preorder/

So the next stage is to program it. The company has released a blog post discussing a way to program it - something to try in the future. 





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. Twitter @scottturneruon