Open source robot
The project, called “OpenBot”, is proposed as a cheap but capable research platform – a balanced alternative to expensive robots based on commercially available radio-controlled models and inexpensive but computationally limited educational models. The prototype components cost the developers only \$50.
Intel Labs has assumed that at least 40% of the population has a smartphone today, so why not use the features of these smartphones to go further in their project? they developed an Android application so that the user can have an interface to collect data and control the robot’s workload. This application comes with an Arduino nano-microcontroller that takes care of the low-level functions.
The making of Openbot
Intel Labs recommends the use of PLA material for 3D printing of different parts of the robot – it is one of the simplest thermoplastics to extrude, requiring no special technical machine.
Researchers used an Ultimaker S5 to build the Openbot chassis. It is actually a plate attached to a cover with six screws. The latter integrates a universal smartphone holder with an adjustable spring to make it compatible with different phones, and an opening to attach an Arduino microcontroller powered by USB.
The team says that the complete printing process takes about 13.5 hours for the bottom plate and 9.5 hours for the cover with the phone holder. Of course, it is possible to print faster, but at the expense of final precision and quality. Finally, on the weight side, count 146 grams for the plate and 103 grams for the lid.
The assembly is quite easy, according to the creators of the OpenBot, it takes around 30 to 60 minutes .
full article here https://www.3dnatives.com/en/openbot-by-intel-080920206/
