This DIY robot can be controlled by mobile and computer application via LAN or USB.
Today, young Makers looking to start tinkering have more options than ever before when it comes to DIY robotics kits. Among those available is Zygmunt Wojcik’s open source project, IoBot.
The IoBot is an Arduino Uno (ATmega328) based, Rockem Sockem-like bot that can be controlled by both a mobile device and PC via LAN or USB cable. A companion application is capable of running on Android, Windows and Mac OS while the Arduino is written in Python/Kivy. Wojcik notes that while knowledge of programming languages isn’t necessarily required, any prior experience will certainly help in further developing the code should a Maker want to update an Arduino sketch or customize a particular robot command.
Beyond its Arduino brain, IoBot consists of about $70 of electronic components (an Ethernet shield, servos, LEDs and resistors) that can be reused in other projects, while the rest of the parts are 3D-printed. These include a right and left arm, a head, an upper and lower back, a front body, a base for the bot and another for the Arduino. For those without access to a 3D printer, these pieces can be created using 3D Hubs.
Once its parts have been sourced, the project — like many other Arduino-powered gizmos — is pretty straightforward from there. With the accompanying app, Makers can use the IoBoT to do everything from move its arms, head and body to control other DIY gadgets, on/off LEDs, and a plethora of other programmable tricks.
“When you control the robot over a LAN, you can view LAPP messages on Arduino serial monitor, just connect the robot with your computer using USB cable. Check out what messages are sent to the robot by pressing each application button, and by moving each slider. You can use these data to control your own project with IoBot application. These messages, as well as ranges of sliders, can be changed in the source code of the application,” Wojcik writes.
Know a young one who may be interested in building their own robot? Head over to IoBot’s Instructables page here. Meanwhile, check it out in action below!
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