New Robot Companion Unveiled on Kickstarter

Adelaide, Australia – September, 2023 – The new Ortomi Generation 4 has been released on  Kickstarter, and they’re simple, comforting and interactive little friends, designed to make people smile. They’re a creation from Ortomi, a small Australian start-up on a mission to capture the joy and  comforting presence of real pets. 

An Ortomi has a simple face that changes with different expressions and moods – both randomly and  interactively. They respond to gestures such as being petted, prodded and picked-up; and respond differently based on their mood – such as when they are happy, sad, asleep, angry or bored. As well  as now making cute beeps and boops (with a silent mode), the new Generation 4 has a larger screen,  more expressions, moods & interactions, and a smooth injection moulded shell – benefitting both  aesthetics and manufacturability. 

The Kickstarter launched on August 29th, and met its goal of AU$23,000 in under 10 hours. It  currently sits at AU$46,000, as people continue to rally behind project and help fund subsequent  stretch goals: 

1. AU$50,000 Custom Expression Creator: 

Users will be able to draw, share and browse custom expressions that they can teach  their Ortomi. 

2. AU$70,000 Silicone Cases: 

Squishy, silicone, key-ring cases will be developed and produced, improving the  portability and personalisation options of Ortomi, as well as adding a satisfying tactile feel. 

3. AU$100,000 Interactions between Ortomi: 

Wireless capability will be developed for Ortomi to interact with each other, enabling everything from cute reactions to complex relationships. 

As well as being completely portable with a 20hr battery life, Ortomi are set apart from other robots  on the market by their personalisation. Like dogs, or goldfish – Ortomi are a whole species, and each  one is meant to be unique. They come in many different colours, with different accessories, have  different personalities, and are usually even given their own name by their owner. 

The Ortomi 4 is set to ship in November 2023, and is set to mark a new chapter for the young  Australian company in terms of scale and impact. 

More details on the Ortomi Generation 4, including the launch video, can be found here:  https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ortomi-robotics/ortomi-an-adorable-robot-companion

KOSMOS Line-Follow-Robot

This sophisticated robotic toy is created remarkably to follow lines seamlessly. For kids above 10 years, the Kosmos Line-Follow Robot provides an exciting chance to construct their robot and experience its remarkable line-following skills firsthand. Different branches of science, including physics and mathematics, are all brought together in one convenient experiment kit. Let’s investigate what makes this fascinating instructional tool so effective.

Simplifying Robotics

The Kosmos Line-Follow Robot is an attempt to simplify the complex field of robotics so that it may be understood by and appealing to young people. Despite the common perception that robots are too complicated or only useful for highly specialised tasks, it is crucial to learn the basics of robotics as these devices become increasingly commonplace in everyday life. Involving yourself with the Kosmos Line-Follow Robot is an excellent way for students to get their feet wet in the fascinating field of robotics.

Applied Physics and Logical Thinking

Students need a foundation in physics and the ability to think critically to control the line-follow robot properly. Students may learn the basics of simple circuits using the Kosmos robot’s helpful visual representations. Through hands-on assembly, students create a flow of electricity between electrical components, guaranteeing the vehicle’s functionality and conformity with input and line specifications. This method improves one’s capacity to comprehend logic and circuits.

Line Following and Steering

The robot’s fundamental goal is always the same: it must follow a black line, either one that has been physically put out or one that has been painted on a surface. . The Kosmos Line-Follow Robot shows how robots may independently traverse their environment with the help of sensors.

Components and Reusability

Electrical components with cables, motors, wheels, tires, printed robot decorations, and in-depth instructions are all included in the Kosmos experiment kit. The kit’s target audience was children in grades 4 through 8, however, it may be used with any age group for demonstration. After the first construction is complete, the robot may be used as a helpful teaching tool in physics classes, concretizing theoretical concepts about circuits. The fact that the robot can be assembled and disassembled several times means it may serve as a durable and adaptable teaching tool.

Learning Outcomes

During its construction, the Kosmos Line-Follow Robot relied heavily on principles of physics and mechanics, two fields that are deeply intertwined. Students may learn how to operate the robot by following detailed instructions that walk them through each procedure. Students learn important information that may be used in the classroom and built upon in other ways, such as via experimentation and independent study.

Hands-On Experience and Practical Understanding

The line-following robot facilitates experiential learning and real-world comprehension via the use of a potentiometer for detecting electrical resistance and LEDs for providing visual feedback. By taking the robot apart and putting it back together, students may better understand the interdependencies between its parts. The robot’s behaviour can be changed by tinkering with the black line, opening the door to experimentation and a deeper knowledge of cause and effect.

Conclusion

The Kosmos Line-Follow Robot is an excellent approach to introduce children to robotics. This teaching aid gives students a firm footing on which to explore the potential of robotics by giving them hands-on experience, encouraging logical thought, and incorporating fundamental principles from physics and mechanics. The Kosmos Line-Follow Robot sets the path for the next generation of robotics experts by arousing their natural curiosities, encouraging them to try new things.

Variobot VariAnt: The Robot Ant

The presence of robots in our modern environment is getting increasingly casual to see. Robots are progressing rapidly in terms of both their capabilities and the potential uses they have. Examples of this include self-driving automobiles and drones. The VariAnt, a robot created by Variobot, is another amazing example.

VariAnt: At the First Glance

VariAnt, a robot ant, moves and acts almost exactly like its biological model. It independently explores its environment using a sensor system to detect obstructions or markers. The Variobot programmable kit is appropriate for researchers who are passionate and young at heart.

Advanced Autonomy

Like the majority of living things, the variAnt adjusts to the surroundings by detecting relative brightness. Using a network of patented sensors is made feasible. The autonomous robot ant has light sensors connected to its body, legs, antennae, and jaw claws that can be positioned as needed.

A processor is housed on an Arduino-compatible nano board, which serves as the ant robot’s central processing unit (CPU). The small control unit provides connections for two motors, 12  analog sensors,  8 digital I/Os,  2 programmed buttons, 2 reed switches for step numbers, that may be used in any way, and 15 status LEDs that can be plugged in and switched as needed.

The state of the sensors, motors, and reed switches may all be indicated by the LEDs. Inside the ant’s head is a tiny circuit board that is equipped with plug-in ports, which enables the flexible combination and extension of environmental sensors.

The lithium-ion battery that comes standard with the variAnt has a run time of around 3  hours and can be recharged using the provided USB cord.

The Walking Mechanism

The robotic ant makes use of these to identify objects, lines, light sources, or shadows in its surroundings, and then either follows them or stays away from them in an intentional manner.

The purpose of the walking mechanism that was created and patented by Variobot is to mimic the natural mobility of an ant as closely as possible. This is doable with only 24 different components made of acrylic.

VariAnt: Best for

For individuals of all ages, the robot ant is also an engaging and entertaining toy. You can use this set to design your own robot to behave, move, and appear like an actual, but much bigger, ant. The robot is an interesting thing to watch due to its distinct motions and behaviors, and due to its size, it can be used in a number of scenarios. The variAnt kit costs around €199.

Conclusion

The VariAnt might revolutionize robotics and our understanding of nature. Since it mimics ants, the VariAnt can perform many tasks that conventional robots cannot. Whether employed for research, environmental monitoring, or as a toy, the VariAnt is a groundbreaking robotics innovation that will captivate people worldwide.

Robots-Blog.com at Automatica 2023

uEye+ Warp10 cameras from IDS combine high speed and high resolution

See more, see better! New 10GigE cameras with onsemi XGS sensors up to 45 MP

In industrial automation, the optimisation of processes is often primarily about higher efficiency and accuracy. 10GigE cameras, such as those in the uEye Warp10 camera family from IDS Imaging Development Systems GmbH, set standards here. They enable high-speed image processing in Gigabit Ethernet-based networks even with large amounts of data and over long cable distances. For even more precision, the company is now introducing new models with sensors up to 45 MP that reliably capture even the smallest details.

The new industrial cameras are equipped with the onsemi global shutter sensors XGS20000 (20 MP, 1.3″), XGS30000 (30 MP, 1.5″) and XGS45000 (45 MP, 2″). They are primarily used in high-precision quality assurance tasks when motion blur needs to be minimised and data needs to be quickly available on the network. The 10GigE cameras offer up to ten times the transmission bandwidth of 1GigE cameras and are about twice as fast as cameras with USB3 interfaces.

Accuracy and speed go hand in hand when it comes to these models. This has advantages for many applications, e.g. in inspection systems for status and end checks at production lines with high cycle rates – such as semiconductor or solar panel inspection. Users also benefit from the fact that even large scenes and image sections can be precisely monitored and evaluated with these cameras. This proves its worth, for example, in logistics tasks for incoming goods and in the warehouse.

The large format onsemi XGS sensors require correspondingly large optics. Therefore, unlike the previous uEye+ Warp10 models, they are equipped with a TFL mount (M35x0.75). For secure mounting, TFL lenses can be firmly screwed to the cameras. The flange focal distance is standardised and, at 17.526 mm, the same as for the previously available cameras with C-mount. To ensure optimal image quality, IDS recommends the use of Active Heat Sinks. They can be mounted both on and under the models, reduce the operating temperature and are optionally available as accessories.

More information: https://en.ids-imaging.com/ueye-warp10.html

Robot-based automation: 3 tips for a time and cost-efficient implementation

Why no-code & low-code tools have become indispensable in robotics

Using robots is almost always worthwhile for companies. They can reduce labor costs, relieve employees, and make production more flexible – because the required batch sizes are becoming smaller and production processes more individual. In addition, a robot or cobot offers another major advantage: it can work without breaks and fatigue, thereby increasing product quality and reducing scrap.

With modern robot systems, almost all processes can now be automated. Usually, robots take over simple, dirty, monotonous, physically demanding, or even dangerous tasks. However, with the right hardware and, above all, software, very complex or particularly demanding tasks, so-called „Advanced Robotics“ applications, can also be solved. Examples of this include the assembly of flexible and bendable components such as cables, wires, or hoses or force-controlled surface processing.

When teach points can be transferred from the real robot back to the programming software as well, such a solution seamlessly integrates into the commissioning process and saves unexpected effort; Source: Ridvan – stock.adobe.com

Following the no-code/low-code trend, there are various software solutions on the market that enable graphical and therefore simplified and faster programming. The advantage is that no special programming skills are required. The portfolio ranges from manufacturer-specific solutions to independent offerings that can be used to program robots from different manufacturers with one single software. Especially in the latter case, experts recommend using tools that automatically generate native robot code for the particular robot controller instead of controlling the robot arm via a separate IPC.

In the first case, users remain flexible when it comes to adjustments or optimizations during operation and avoid a lock-in effect, as they can continue to program the robot in the traditional way using line code even without using the software.

Whether with external engineering tools or line code, there are factors on the path to robot-based automation that users often underestimate and therefore do not pay enough attention to. How to avoid three of the most important stumbling blocks will be briefly explained below.

No-code/low-code tools simplify and speed up robot programming thanks to their template-based approach; Source: ArtiMinds Robotics GmbH

FACTOR 1: PROGRAMMING EFFORT

The time required for programming an application is usually not underestimated, but there are other pitfalls in this phase: for example, process tolerances and variances that have not been taken into account or the increased complexity when incorporating sensors or establishing a communication between the robot and a PLC. In addition, programming a system is often a tailor-made and complex solution that is difficult to adapt. Moreover, programmers often have their own style, which can make the resulting code or program difficult to understand and modify for other programmers. At this point, the market supports the user with the aforementioned no-code/low-code solutions. For example, with pre-defined function blocks, programs can be constructed and structured in a clear and understandable manner for others. Process tolerances and variances can also be automatically compensated, analyzed, and optimized by using the right software. If the corresponding interfaces are already integrated, the effort required to connect sensors or set up a PLC communication is also immensely reduced.

FACTOR 2: EFFORT DURING COMMISSIONING

A rule of thumb states that the cost of the robot itself is only about one-third of the initial cost of the cell, and experience shows that around 45 percent of the typical costs are incurred during ramp-up. This is because users often underestimate the time required for commissioning. Although the system is programmed offline and simulated throughout in advance, differences between theory and practice often become apparent during commissioning.

Thus, despite good preparation, the process can take significantly longer than planned, and adjustments and changes can quickly become expensive In addition, factors that were not apparent during digital preparation now need to be addressed on-site during commissioning. This makes this phase difficult to calculate. With consistent tools, the ramp-up can be implemented in a controlled manner and without great loss of time, so that this phase does not become a cost driver. It is important to combine simulation, programming, sensors, and data analysis in one single software package. This way, the engineering chain becomes consistent without the user having to compromise on functionality.

Programs can be structured and made traceable using pre-defined function blocks. Before commissioning, the process can be simulated as realistically as possible in a 3D simulation environment and tested; Source: ArtiMinds Robotics GmbH

This makes changes and adjustments faster, more flexible and easier. With ideally automatically generated robot code and the ability to transfer teach points back from the real robot into the software, such a solution integrates seamlessly and optimally into existing commissioning and maintenance processes. This also offers the greatest flexibility in terms of online and offline programming, allowing the user to choose the best option and easiest way for the respective task.


FACTOR 3: CHANGES DURING THE LIFECYCLE OF THE CELL

Even when the robot is running, there is still a danger that is often not considered: Over the system runtime, numerous changes in general conditions can occur that require adaptation of the programming.

These can be vibrations and shocks, for example caused from forklifts or other machines, wear and tear of tools, replacement parts that react differently than the previous components, changes in workpiece batches, and the space available in the hall or a change of the operating personnel. Changed lighting conditions and temperature conditions or the difference between a cold-started and warmed-up robot can also have an impact.

Software that standardizes and simplifies programming allows the user to react simply, quickly, and flexibly to these and many other changes and to make necessary adjustments in the program itself. If the worker uses a tool that also makes changes or the resulting consequences visible early on in terms of forces, cycle times, or defects and quality, it becomes easier to analyze and derive possible optimizations, which makes the user best prepared.

A guest article by ArtiMinds Robotics

Are We Ready for Humanoid Robots?

With the development of AI, robots have become a lot smarter. A quick Google or Youtube search will reveal many cases of people using advanced robots. For example, videos of robots packing shelves in factories or, even more impressive, the Ocean One Robot, an advanced humanoid that explores shipwrecks and plane crashes. 

These videos make many wonder how far we are from using such robotics in everyday life. Learn what today’s robots are capable of, what potential challenges need to be solved and if humanoids are ready for daily life.

https://unsplash.com/de/fotos/jIBMSMs4_kA
HD-Foto von Possessed Photography (@possessedphotography) https://unsplash.com/

3 Humanoids Robots Helping Humans Today

One reason advanced humanoid robots are in demand is their ability to handle dangerous and repetitive operations. This frees up humans to focus on other essential, safer tasks. Current AI robots such as humanoids and cobots are already assisting humans by completing various tasks — bomb disposal, surgery, packing items in grocery stores, self-driving vehicles and much more. 

One industry that frequently utilizes AI robots is the manufacturing sector. They mostly complete repetitive assignments such as packing items, material handling, assembly and welding. This speeds up production time and allows humans to tackle more complex or demanding tasks. Here are three different humanoid robots helping people. 

  1. Digit

Agility Robotics has developed a humanoid robot well-suited for many tedious operations. The humanoid is called Digit and has fully functional limbs making it excellent at unloading packages from trailers and also delivering them. Digit is equipped with sensors in his torso to help him easily navigate complex environments. 

  1. Nadine

Nadine is a realistic-looking social humanoid robot with various facial expressions and movements. She was developed in Singapore by researchers from the Nanyang Technological University. Nadine can recognize different gestures, faces, objects and is able to perform various social tasks associated with customer service. 

  1. Promobot

Promobot is a humanoid that is suitable for many different service-oriented roles. In hotels, promobot can recognize guests, print receipts, issue keycards and check guests in. This humanoid is customizable and can even work as a medical assistant — measure blood oxygen and blood sugar levels.

Are Humanoids Ready for Daily Life?

Today’s humanoids are undoubtedly impressive, but AI robots have yet to reach the level of generative artificial intelligence — an advanced form of AI capable of holding detailed conversations when prompted. Many companies aim to combine generative AI with advanced robotics to make it more applicable for a wider variety of use cases. 

Since most AI machines are developed for the use of single tasks, they tend to struggle when taking on multiple operations simultaneously. In other words, they aren’t very good at multitasking. This complex aspect would need to be addressed for AI robots to become a reality in daily life. The most advanced form of AI robots available today are self-driving cars, which have a long way to go before they are truly self-driving. 

It is the same with humanoid robots. Although many of the AI robots available are amazing, it is clear there are still advancements needed, especially in the case of processing abilities. AI robots will need to understand a wide variety of interactions no matter how they are carried out — voice, keyboard commands, hand gestures and sometimes even facial expressions. 

For AI humanoids to be applicable in daily life, humans need a deeper understanding of how they operate — training might be required. 

Potential Challenges to Overcome With Future Humanoids

One of the biggest problems with AI humanoids today is their battery life. They can usually only work for an hour or two and then require charging. While the goal would be to use them for multiple hours on end, another approach might be to increase the battery life by a few hours and add fast charging. 

In terms of complex and challenging tasks, many humanoids and cobots are quite advanced and can solve them with relevant ease. However, this usually means they lack in other areas, such as movement. In most cases, the humanoid has advanced movement or impressive processing abilities, but not both. 

In addition, the technology today’s humanoids use will also need further improvements. Better censoring capabilities are necessary in terms of in-depth cameras, voice and visual sensors to make them more applicable in modern life. For humanoids to become more widely used, their movement and processing abilities require further refinement. 

Humanoids also need to operate safely and effectively while working with multiple humans at the same time. The robot will need to comprehend numerous interactions with different people simultaneously to react appropriately. The current training methods used with humanoids today are slow and would need further refinements to make them available for daily life. 

Humanoids Robots Still Have a Long Way to Go

The advance of technology and AI is astounding, especially when combined to create robots that assist humans with numerous tasks. However, there are still a few areas where humanoids need refinement to become suitable for everyday use. Undoubtedly, humans will benefit significantly from utilizing advanced AI robotics in their daily life, but for this to become a reality, humanoids still have a long way to go.

Guest article by Ellie Gabel. Ellie is a writer living in Raleigh, NC. She's passionate about keeping up with the latest innovations in tech and science. She also works as an associate editor for Revolutionized.

Rise of the Autobots: Fanhome’s Optimus Prime

Fanhome, a well-known collectors‘ company, has just released a new line celebrating Optimus Prime, arguably the most recognizable figure in the Transformers franchise. Fans can now get their hands on a wide variety of high-quality building materials and magazines honoring the courageous leader of the Autobots, thanks to this limited-edition collection. Fanhome provides a quality experience for Transformers fans, from a sturdy backpack to a realistic model and the opportunity to construct one’s own Optimus Prime. Explore the amazing Fanhome Optimus Prime Collection and all it has to offer.

The Legend of Optimus Prime Model: Specifications

The centerpiece of the exceptional Fanhome Optimus Prime Collection, the Legend of Optimus Prime sculpture stands tall at an astounding height of 60 cm. The strength, leadership, and unshakable commitment to justice of Optimus Prime are perfectly captured in this expertly crafted collectible. Get ready to be enthralled as you see Optimus Prime’s magnificent presence come to life.

The Legend of Optimus Prime model was meticulously created and had a level of artistry that is simply amazing. Using metal and ABS plastic combined with high-quality materials offers a long-lasting and accurate portrayal of the legendary Autobot leader. The delicate details are all accurately replicated, providing enthusiasts with an unmatched authentic replica.

This model stands out for having amazing features that make Optimus Prime come to life. Fans can exhibit Optimus Prime in battle-ready mode thanks to the model’s painstakingly crafted accessories and details, which give an extra level of authenticity. As Optimus Prime’s eyes are illuminated by fascinating LED lights, the model also exudes strength and resolve.

You may buy this Legend of Optimus Prime model with confidence since it is an officially licensed item that demonstrates Fanhome’s dedication to providing Transformers fans with products of the highest caliber and authenticity. It is evidence of the company’s commitment to giving fans memorabilia that accurately reflect the characters they like.

The Legend of Optimus Prime model comes with batteries to make your experience even more pleasurable. As a result, you can dive right into the intriguing world of Transformers.

Build Your Own Transformers Optimus Prime

Build your own Transformers Optimus Prime with Fanhome if you want a realistic and exciting experience. Subscribers receive carefully curated packages comprising all the parts and tools needed for assembly as part of a monthly subscription. New construction phases start each month, accompanied by educational periodicals, including interesting articles, directions, and statistics. Fans can fully immerse themselves in the Optimus Prime universe and see their invention come to life thanks to this hands-on method.

Conclusion

For Transformers fans and collectors, Fanhome’s Optimus Prime Collection is a paradise. Fanhome offers a first-rate experience in the process of making your own Optimus Prime. You may embody the courage, heroism, and steadfast dedication that Optimus Prime stands for.. Let the Fanhome Optimus Prime Collection stoke your imagination and whisk you away to the enthralling world of the Transformers as you let loose your inner Autobot.

The Optimus Prime Backpack for the first 1000 subscribers

Any dedicated Transformers fan must own the Optimus Prime backpack. This unique collector backpack, which was made with durability in mind, enables you to show off your support for Optimus Prime and the Autobots. Its robust design features characteristics that fans will immediately recognize, and its solid construction guarantees that it can sustain daily use. The bag combines practicality and fandom in an elegant way thanks to its roomy space and meticulous design. Subscribe now, be one of the first 1000 subscribes and get this unique backpack.

Build Your Own Voice Assistant with CircuitMess Spencer: Your Talkative Friend

Voice assistants have become a crucial component of our everyday lives in today’s technologically sophisticated society. They assist us with work, respond to our inquiries, and even provide entertainment. Have you ever wondered how voice assistants operate or how to build your own? Spencer is here to satisfy your curiosity and provide a fun DIY activity, so stop searching. This blog post will introduce you to Spencer, a voice assistant that will brighten your day with jokes and provide you with all the information you need.

Meet Spencer

Spencer is a buddy that converses with you; it is more than simply a voice assistant. It can hear you well enough to comprehend all you say. It uses its large red button as a trigger to search the internet and give you straightforward answers. It’s a wonderful addition to your everyday routine because of Spencer’s endearing nature and capacity to make you grin.

Spencer’s Features: Your Interactive Voice Assistant Companion

1. Voice Interaction

High-quality audio communication is possible because of Spencer’s microphone. It comprehends your instructions, inquiries, and chats and offers a simple and straightforward approach for you to communicate with your voice assistant. Simply talk to Spencer, and it will answer as you would expect, giving the impression that you are conversing with a genuine friend.

2. Internet Connectivity and Information Retrieval

Spencer has internet access, allowing you to access a huge information base. You may have Spencer do a real-time internet search by pushing the huge red button on his chest. Spencer can search the web and provide you clear, succinct answers, whether you need to discover the solution to a trivia question, check the most recent news headlines, or collect information on a certain issue.

3. Personalization and Customization

Being wholly original is what Spencer is all about. You are allowed to alter its features and reactions to fit your tastes. Make Spencer reflect your style and personality by altering its external elements, such as colors, decals, or even adding accessories. To further create a genuinely customized experience, you may alter its reactions, jokes, and interactions to suit your sense of humor and personal tastes.

4. Entertainment and Engagement

Spencer is aware of how important laughing is to life. It has built-in jokes and amusing replies, so talking to your voice assistant is not only educational but also interesting and fun. Spencer’s amusing features will keep you entertained and involved whether you need a quick pick-me-up or want to have a good time with friends and family.

5. Learning and Educational STEM Experience

In particular, STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) subjects are the focus of Spencer’s educational mission. You will learn useful skills in electronics, soldering, component assembly, and circuits by making Spencer. To further develop Spencer’s talents, you may go into programming, gaining practical experience with coding and computational thinking.

6. Inspiration and Creativity

Spencer acts as a springboard to spark your imagination and motivate further investigation. You may let your creativity run wild as you put together and customize your voice assistant. This do-it-yourself project promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and invention, developing a creative and innovative mentality that may go beyond the context of making Spencer.

Recommended Age Group

Spencer is intended for those who are at least 11 years old. While the majority of the assembly procedures are simple, some, like soldering and tightening fasteners, call for prudence. Never be afraid to seek an adult for help if you need it. When using certain equipment and approaches, it is usually preferable to be guided.

Assembly Time Required

The construction of Spencer should take, on average, 4 hours to finish. However, take in mind that the timeframe may change based on your prior knowledge and expertise. Don’t worry if you’re unfamiliar with electronics! Enjoy the process, take your time, and don’t let any early difficulties get you down. You’ll grow more used to the procedures as you go along.

Skills Required

To start this DIY project, no special skills are needed. Fun and learning something new are the key goals. Your introduction to the field of electronics via Building Spencer will pique your interest in STEM fields and provide you the chance to get hands-on experience. Consider completing this assignment as the first step towards a lucrative engineering career.

Pros and Cons of Spencer

Pros of Spencer

  • Spencer provides an engaging and interactive experience, responding to voice commands and engaging in conversations to make you feel like you have a real companion.
  • With internet connectivity, Spencer can retrieve information in real-time, giving you quick answers to your questions and saving you time.
  • Spencer can be customized to reflect your style and preferences, allowing you to personalize its appearance, responses, and interactions.
  • Spencer comes with built-in jokes and entertaining responses, adding fun and amusement to your interactions with the voice assistant.
  • Building Spencer provides hands-on learning in electronics, soldering, circuitry, and programming, offering a valuable educational experience in STEM disciplines.

Cons of Spencer

  • The assembly process of Spencer may involve technical aspects such as soldering and component assembly, which can be challenging for beginners or individuals with limited experience.
  • Spencer heavily relies on internet connectivity to provide real-time answers and retrieve information, which means it may have limited functionality in areas with poor or no internet connection.
  • While Spencer offers basic voice assistant features, its capabilities may be more limited compared to advanced commercially available voice assistant devices.

Conclusion

Spencer, creating your own voice assistant is a fascinating and worthwhile endeavor. You’ll learn useful skills, expand your understanding of electronics, and enjoy the thrill of putting a complicated gadget together as you go along with the assembly process. Remember that the purpose of this project is to experience the thrill of learning, solving problems, and letting your imagination run free as well as to produce a final product. So be ready to join Spencer on this journey and discover a world of opportunities in the exciting world of voice assistants.

Get your own Spencer Building kit here: bit.ly/RobotsBlog

fruitcore robotics unveils new operating system with integrated AI  copilot: a big step in industrial automation for more efficiency, user friendliness and time 

Constance, June 28th, 2023 – fruitcore robotics takes industrial automation to a new level with an  innovative operating system that uses the latest AI technology. With horstOS, industrial companies  have a new tool at their disposal that assists them in every step of commissioning entire applications  with the intelligent industrial robot HORST while significantly reducing complexity. With an integrated  AI copilot, industrial companies can increase the efficiency of their production processes and save  time. „Generative AI is driving a transformation of many task areas. The new technology will transform  automation and provide our customers with a whole new automation experience,“ says Patrick  Heimburger, Managing Director (Chief Revenue Officer) of fruitcore robotics.  

The new operating system of fruitcore robotics simplifies and accelerates the configuration and  management of all components involved in the process, the programming as well as the operation of  the finished application. The entire control system of robots, components and existing industrial  processes is carried out via a user-friendly interface through which their interaction is realized even  more easily. horstOS essentially comprises three interconnected areas: the component management  area, the program creation area and the process control system area. These three areas provide users  with all the functions they need to set up and use their overall plants quickly, simple and efficiently.  

In the component management area, users can seamlessly integrate and centrally manage all  components relevant to an overall plant, such as grippers, camera systems and safety systems, thanks  to standardized interfaces. Adding components takes just one click and is possible for all components  that have a web app or a digital interface – regardless of the manufacturer. If status information needs  to be queried for one of the connected components, settings need to be checked or changes need to  be made, this can be implemented straightforward via the robot panel with horstOS as the central  user interface. When users switch to the program creation area, they find themselves in the intuitive  horstFX operating software, in which they create the robot’s program sequence with the integration  of all components. Once the program sequence has been created, it can be started, stopped or  paused in the process control system. The process control system also allows users to customize the  operation and process monitoring to their personal needs and specific processes. Widgets can be used  to show relevant process data, display the status of connected components, and access parameters  that need to be adjusted frequently. This gives users full control over their automation process.

Ask HORST Anything – AI Copilot helps in all life phases of industrial robots  

„Our new operating system incorporates the most advanced technology and deep integration of  artificial intelligence. It sets new standards for the rapid integration of industrial robots into  processes such as machine loading and unloading, quality assurance, parts separation or adhesive  and sealant application, says Patrick Heimburger. With the AI Copilot in horstOS, users get an  intelligent assistant that provides real-time support in natural language to successfully cope the  challenges of automation. Whether setting up the robot and other components, troubleshooting,  or suggesting program blocks or even writing entire programs, AI Copilot enables users to quickly  and accurately find solutions for their applications and keep operations running smoothly. For  example, if the user wants to know how to pass the part position detected by the camera to the  robot, he can address this question to the AI Copilot via text prompt and receive the  corresponding code block within a few moments.  

The AI Copilot from fruitcore robotics is based on ChatGPT and has been specially trained for industry  conditions. It offers users comprehensive access to all relevant instructions, support content and  software documentation from fruitcore robotics. In order to provide users with an optimal user  experience, the Constance-based company focuses on continuous enhancements of the AI Copilot’s  capabilities. 

Future-oriented automation with horstOS  

The scope of horstOS is also expected to grow steadily in the coming years. The modular structure of  the operating system already allows external software and services to be integrated without great  effort. User-specific software programs and interfaces from OEMs can also be seamlessly integrated.  „Through horstOS, the future of automation becomes a new reality. The system offers extensive  support, even for those with little knowledge, and significantly reduces the effort required for setup,  operation and after sales,“ explains Jens Riegger, Managing Director (CEO) of fruitcore robotics. „Our  intelligent industrial robots are not only designed to offer our customers the best return-on investment in the robotics market. Especially against the backdrop of the ubiquitous shortage of  skilled workers, they are also designed to help increase productivity and save valuable time,“ says Jens  Riegger.