(Nanowerk News) "As 3D printers become more and more common place in the classroom there’s a need for engaging projects and curriculum to tie this powerful tool into science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) subjects,” said Graham Ryland, President and Co-founder of Barobo Incorporated. “We’re excited to launch the Mobot-A robot kit which offers students the opportunity to learn 21st century skills by building a robot from the ground up.”
Starting today, all the plastic parts, accessories, assembly instructions, and curriculum for the Mobot-A will be available to download from the company’s website. The Mobot-A kit includes the internal electronics, motors, and fasteners. Users print the rest. The launch of the Mobot-A kit follows a successful Beta program where over 300 robots were used in more than 30 high schools and middle schools to teach STEM subjects.
Once assembled, the Mobot-A can attach to other robots and accessories to form new and unique machines. Students can design their own accessories to attach to the robot and print on a 3D printer. In this way there’s no limit to what can be created. Curriculum ties these robot projects into math principles and students are exposed to basic programming.
“We’re breaking from traditional business models and relying on our users to, not just assemble the robot, but play an active role in manufacturing the plastic parts,” said Graham Ryland. “We’ve proven the technology in the classroom and want to get it into students’ hands as quickly and cheaply as possible. Relying on customers to manufacture their own plastic parts wasn't an option just a few years ago, but 3D printing technology has made this new way of rolling out an educational product possible."
Product Features
– Wireless programming over Bluetooth.
– Structured curriculum tying activities into STEM subject.
– Kids learn 21st century skills.
Included in the Mobot-A Kit
– Electronics, Motor, Batteries, and Fasteners
– Detailed Assembly Instruction and Curriculum
– Easy to use Software
The Barobo, Inc. Mobot-A robot kit is currently available at http://www.barobo.com for $139.95.
About Barobo, Inc.
Barobo, Inc. is a spin-off of technology developed at the University of California, Davis with a mission to offer hands-on, educational robots that make 21st century skills accessible. Barobo was awarded National Science Foundation Phase I and Phase II grants to commercialize its modular robot technology.
