A student has turned his robotic idea into a reality with the customisable, modular eeMOD microrobot.
University of Malta engineering graduate, Reuben Ferrante’s final year project has now become an educational tool for schools, while also offering a platform for researchers to build their own robotic invention.
“eeMod is a versatile tool, but also a learning platform,” Ferrante said. “Students who have the slightest curiosity on programming and want to do cool things with hardware are in for a treat. Starting from programming concepts, to how a program is run on a microcontroller to controlling and manipulating robotic arms; it can all be done using eeMod.”
The eeMOD integrates Bluetooth 4.0, Wi-Fi, infrared sensors, a motor control, light sensors, colour sensor, compass, gyro, accelerometer, SD card slot and USB into a modular base that anyone can use to build their own robot.
It can be controlled via a smartphone or autonomously if you’re happy to programme it to run without commands and its 3D printed chassis can be customised exactly as you wish.
The project is currently financing on Zaar and Indiegogo, with the casing 3D printed for those who want the full package to tinker with. The 3D designs will be available for those who want to make their robot look different if the Indiegogo campaign is fully funded.
On Indiegogo, the complete package costs from $65 (£45), which includes the bottom board, proximity sensors and line sensors (other sensors not included), motors, ball caster, wheels and the battery and the top board installed with an Atmega328P.
The complete eeMod with all the sensors, but no accessories costs from $99 (£70) for earlybirds, while those who are a little slower off the mark will have to pay $109 (£75).
