Schlagwort-Archive: Programming

Wandelbots presents NOVA: The world’s first agnostic operating system for robots

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Dresden, November 6th, 2024 – Last night at its exclusive launch event in Dresden, Wandelbots unveiled the world’s first agnostic operating system specifically developed for industrial robotic automation. With NOVA, a new era of automation begins, setting new standards in efficiency, accessibility, and innovation.

„With NOVA, we are witnessing a new dawn in industrial automation,“ said Christian Piechnick, CEO of Wandelbots. „Just as Android revolutionized smartphones and Windows transformed the PC world, NOVA will make industrial robotics accessible to everyone and create new ways for software developers to commercialize.“

Carl Doeksen, Global Robotics / Automation Director for Abrasive Systems at 3M states: „At 3M, we collaborate with startups, to augment our innovation model. We’re proud to be part of Wandelbots‘ journey to democratize robotics. Today, the vast majority of the abrasive applications are still done manually. Wandelbots NOVA will lower the barrier for companies to automate these types of processes. With NOVA, users are empowered with the process know-how they need to select the right abrasive materials; they can easily input the parameters for their workpiece and specify the desired final state using a simple UI. For 3M, NOVA provides an opportunity—not only to equip end-users with the tools they need, but to make our extensive expertise in process technology more accessible.“

Modern Programming Languages and Vendor Independence

Wandelbots NOVA is the world’s first agnostic operating system for robots, designed to make robotics accessible to everyone. By supporting modern development tools like Python and JavaScript, NOVA empowers millions of developers to create and scale robotic applications with ease, reducing the complexity of automation. Following a Plan, Build, and Operate approach, NOVA simplifies the entire automation lifecycle with AI technologies at its core—from planning and simulation to deployment and scaling—ensuring continuous support throughout each phase. Its seamless integration with existing hardware allows businesses to leverage past investments while scaling across multiple robots and brands, without costly retooling—accelerating projects, lowering costs, and increasing flexibility. Wandelbots’ close collaboration with Microsoft and OpenAI ensures scalability and that the latest and greatest AI capabilities enhance NOVA’s feature set.

As a vendor-independent operating system, NOVA simplifies and optimizes the complex world of industrial robotics by integrating hardware components from various manufacturers and making them accessible to everyone using through a modern interface. Complex programming and inflexible automation landscapes are now things of the past. NOVA’s open API concept, unique user experience, and seamless integration of externally developed apps make it a versatile platform for both robot users and millions of software developers.

Proprietary and outdated programming languages, high operating costs, a lack of skilled labor, and closed ecosystems have so far prevented the full realization of robotics‘ enormous potential—especially in small- and medium-sized enterprises, where robotics is still a niche topic. NOVA, as a unified operating system, will significantly advance robotics by enabling easy programming and control of robots from different manufacturers without the need for specialized expertise. This reduces operating costs, speeds up innovation processes, and eliminates the dependence on hard-to-find skilled personnel. Especially for SMEs, where the current level of automation is still in the single digits, NOVA opens up entirely new perspectives.

An Open Ecosystem for Software Developers

Wandelbots NOVA is much more than just an operating system. It offers a unified user interface for all robot manufacturers and models. Software developers can access development tools, UI elements, standardized libraries, and sample applications through the dedicated developer portal. Using the Python-based programming language „Wandelscript,“ they can create innovative solutions for interacting with robots and share their experiences within the community specifically created for this purpose.

A New Era of Automation

The launch of NOVA marks a turning point. It opens up new opportunities for companies to leverage automation. In addition, software developers, who currently create apps or websites, can now unleash their creativity in a completely new industry.

How NOVA Supports Companies

Wandelbots NOVA was developed with four key objectives to support companies:

  1. Support revenue growth: Automate processes faster and more reliably.
  2. Optimize Operations: Manage the entire robotics automation process through a single platform and reduce the complexity of shop floor IT.
  3. Reduce costs and risks: Virtual planning, commissioning, and support of automation systems lower the barrier to entry and the risk of unnecessary investments.
  4. Improved Usability: Automation projects with user-friendly frontend applications enable easy interaction between employees and robots.

Addressing the Labor Shortage and Simplifying Robotics

One major advantage of NOVA is its ability to counter the growing shortage of skilled robot programmers and production workers. Through intuitive frontend applications and a unified user interface, NOVA makes it easier than ever for employees to interact with robots without requiring technical knowledge. A modern and unified programming language also opens up a completely new field of activity for millions of software developers, thus strengthening the industry’s innovative capacity.

Investment Protection Thanks to Realistic Simulation with Digital Twins

Future automation systems can be tested for functionality before costly hardware equipment is purchased. The integration of Wandelbots NOVA with the NVIDIA Omniverse platform empowers developers and operators to create physically accurate digital twins of robots, factories, and movable workpieces for simulation before real-world deployment. This seamless integration delivers consistency between the digital twin and the physical automation cell throughout their entire lifecycle, which can enhance efficiency and reduce potential errors.

Wandelbots NOVA – Beta Phase Starts Now

Since June, the first approximately 50 customers have been able to experience the advantages of Wandelbots NOVA in the closed beta phase. Now, Wandelbots is making its operating system available to more users in the open beta phase. Interested users can register at https://www.wandelbots.com/developers-beta

Learn More at the SPS Trade Fair

We warmly invite you to see NOVA yourself and test it live at the SPS from November 12th to 14th: https://www.wandelbots.com/sps You can find us in Hall 6, Stand 248. Feel free to contact us at [email protected] to schedule an appointment. We are also happy to be available for interviews on-site.

In short:

  • NOVA enables programming and controlling robots independent of the vendor
  • NOVA brings robotics out of the niche and makes it accessible to the masses
  • Software developers can easily create their own robotics applications
  • NOVA, in combination with NVIDIA Omniverse, enables simulation and planning with digital twins
  • Strong collaboration with Microsoft ensures scalability and cutting-edge AI features
  • Interested companies and developers can sign up for the beta phase

Get your own Rick and Morty Butter Bot!

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https://circuitmess.com/pages/butter-bot-teaser

New Features Available for VEXcode 4.0

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VEX Robotics updated VEXcode for a new year of coding! VEXcode 4.0 for VEX IQ, VEX EXP, and VEX V5 brings users some exciting new features! These efforts aim to streamline user experience and support added accessibility options. Explore the new features for each platform below and in their accompanying VEX Library articles!

New Features in VEXcode IQ 4.0

VEXcode IQ 4.0 introduces major updates. Notable additions include Switch Blocks, which enable a seamless transition from block-based to text-based coding on a physical robot, enhanced save and load features for web-based VEXcode, and new accessibility options like Read Blocks Aloud. These updates are designed to streamline the user experience and support beginners and advanced users.

Learn more about these updates here: https://kb.vex.com/hc/en-us/articles/29278709186708-New-Features-in-VEXcode-IQ-4-0

New Features in VEXcode EXP 4.0

VEXcode EXP 4.0 offers comprehensive updates designed to elevate the educational experience for teachers and students. This release includes full support for the CTE Workcell, enabling seamless integration of industrial robotics into the classroom. The new Switch Blocks feature allows for a smooth transition from block-based to text-based coding, facilitating advanced learning. Additionally, web-based wireless project downloads enable more efficient workflows by allowing users to connect to an EXP Brain directly from their web browser. Enhanced accessibility features like Read Blocks Aloud, customizable voices, and high-contrast themes make VEXcode more inclusive and user-friendly. The updated AI Vision Sensor now supports AprilTags and AI Classifications, enhancing autonomous capabilities. With these enhancements, VEXcode EXP 4.0 continues to support a wide range of educational needs, from introducing beginners to advanced robotic programming.

Learn more about these updates here: https://kb.vex.com/hc/en-us/articles/29373428548372-New-Features-in-VEXcode-V5-4-0

Vention and ABB collaborate to make cobot automation accessible to SMBs

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Montreal/Berlin, September 10, 2024 – Vention, the company behind the cloud-based Manufacturing Automation Platform (MAP), announces its collaboration with ABB Robotics, confirming the compatibility between the Vention platform and the ABB GoFa™ family of cobots. Vention and ABB customers benefit from a seamless integration of both companies‘ technologies, from the design phase of the robot cells to the processes on the factory floor.  

As part of the Vention ecosystem, ABB will gain access to a wider range of do-it-yourself automation customers, while Vention will expand its offering with ABB’s robotic solutions. The mutually beneficial relationship will expand market reach and innovation for both companies.  

Enhanced automation capabilities with the ABB GoFa™ CRB15000 Series  

The ABB GoFa™ robots, now available on the Vention marketplace, offer  manufacturers proven cobots with a payload of 5 kg, 10 kg and 12 kg. Known for their safety, ease of use and performance, ABB GoFa™ robots are  designed to work side-by-side with humans in various applications, from assembly and welding to  material handling and inspection. 

ABB GoFa™ robots, enhanced by the power of the Vention Manufacturing  Automation Platform 

ABB GoFa™ robots are now compatible with the entire Vention platform,  including MachineBuilder (design), MachineLogic (robot programming),  MachineAnalytics (operational monitoring and data) and Remote Support (on-demand support). This compatibility provides ABB customers with an intuitive user experience, from  the design to the operation of robot cells. In addition, ABB GoFa™ robots  will be available for Vention’s  innovative Rapid Series application line during 2025.  

„We are very pleased to welcome ABB to the Vention ecosystem. This collaboration enhances our ability to deliver democratized and powerful automation solutions“ says Etienne Lacroix, Founder and CEO of Vention.  

„The partnership with Vention represents a significant step forward for both companies. This collaboration combines ABB’s advanced cobot portfolio with Vention’s expertise in application design and delivery. By bringing together our hardware and software capabilities, we’re making robot automation more accessible and easier to integrate for businesses of all sizes. „Our joint efforts will address key industry trends and help companies improve their operations and make workplaces safer and more efficient,“ said Andrea Cassoni, Head of Collaborative Robotics at ABB Robotics.  

About Vention  

Vention helps companies automate their production areas in just a few days through a democratized user experience. Vention’s digital manufacturing automation platform allows customers to design, automate, order, and deploy automated equipment directly from their web browser. Vention is headquartered in Montreal, Canada, with offices in Berlin and Boston. Its more than 300 employees serve more than 4,000 customers on five continents and in 25 manufacturing industries. For more information, see vention.com or follow us on LinkedIn. *MachineMotion, MachineLogic, MachineCloud and Vention are trademarks of Vention Inc.  

About ABB Robotics 

ABB (ABBN: SIX Swiss Ex) ABB is a technology leader in electrification and automation, enabling a more sustainable and resource-efficient future.  The company’s solutions combine technical expertise and software to optimize the manufacturing, movement, power, and operation of things.  Building on more than 140 years of excellence, ABB’s more than 105,000 employees are committed to driving innovation that accelerates industrial transformation. www.abb.com

ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation, as one of the world’s leading providers of robotics and machine automation, is the only company with a comprehensive and integrated portfolio that includes robots, autonomous mobile robots and machine automation solutions developed and orchestrated by our value-added software. We help companies of all sizes and industries – from automotive to electronics to logistics – to become more resilient, flexible and efficient. ABB Robotics & Discrete Automation is helping customers transition to the connected and collaborative factory of the future. The business unit employs around 11,000 people at over 100 locations in around 53 countries.  go.abb/robotics

Block coding for all modern LEGO® hubs

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Endless creativity and fun with smart LEGO® bricks using Pybricks

November, 2023 – Pybricks Headquarters: Today, the Pybricks team presents the first beta release of block coding for all modern LEGO® hubs. For the first time, fans of all LEGO themes can bring their smart bricks together in a single app for endless possibilities and creativity.

Whether you want to make smart train layouts, autonomous Technic machines, interactive BOOST creatures, or super-precise SPIKE and MINDSTORMS robots, you can do it with Pybricks.

Pybricks is beginner-friendly and easy to use. There’s no need to install complicated apps or libraries either. Just go to https://beta.pybricks.com, update the firmware, and start coding.

And now for the first time, no prior Python coding experience is required. You can code with familiar but powerful blocks, and gradually switch to Python when you’re ready. The live preview makes it easy to see how your blocks translate to Python code.

Meanwhile, more seasoned builders and robotics teams will enjoy advanced features such as color sensor calibration or builtin gyro control for drive bases.

The new block coding experience is exclusively available to our supporters on Patreon. You can sign up for a monthly subscription or make a one-time pledge in our shop for lifetime access.

Python coding remains entirely free and open source, and continues to be supported by a community of developers and LEGO enthusiasts around the world. Improvements are made almost every day, with the lead developers actively engaging with the community for ideas, bug fixes, and brand new features.

So grab your LEGO sets and start coding!

ABB is the first manufacturer to provide intuitive, block-based no-code programming for all cobots and six-axis industrial robots

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  • First-time users can program their collaborative robots and industrial robots for free within minutes
  • System integrators and experienced users can develop, share, and customize sophisticated programs for application-specific features

ABB Robotics has expanded the scope of its free Wizard Easy Programming software for collaborative robots to include all six-axis industrial robots running on an ABB OmniCore™ controller. This makes ABB the first robot manufacturer to offer an easy-to-use no-code programming tool for cobots and six-axis industrial robots. This lowers the barriers to automation for early adopters and provides ecosystem partners and integrators with an efficient tool to support their customers.

„If we want to promote and advance the use of robotic automation on a global scale, we need to address the challenges and opportunities of the industry,“ says Marc Segura, head of the robotics division at ABB. „By adding our six-axis industrial robots to Wizard Easy Programming, ABB Robotics is responding to the skills shortage and increasing demand from manufacturing companies for simple and easy-to-use programming software for their robot fleets.“

Create robot applications without prior training

Wizard Easy Programming uses a graphic, drag-and-drop, no-code programming approach designed to simplify the development of robotic applications. The software allows both first-time and experienced robot users to create applications in minutes – a task that typically requires a week of training and another week of development work. Since its launch in 2020, Wizard Easy Programming has been used in a wide range of applications in conjunction with ABB’s YuMi, SWIFTI™ and GoFa™ collaborative robots.

Wizard Easy Programming, previously available for ABB’s collaborative robots, is now available for all of the company’s six-axis industrial robots. (Image: ABB)

The software offers users the opportunity to create complete programs for applications such as arc welding or machine tending without prior training. An intuitive graphical user interface allows you to customize existing programs and pre-programmed blocks to control various actions – from robot movements to signal instructions and force control – for added flexibility.

Efficiently generate specific codes for specific applications

Wizard Easy Programming also includes Skill Creator, a tool that helps system integrators and experts create custom, application-specific wizard blocks for their customers. Skill Creator simplifies the creation of new blocks for highly specific tasks such as machine tending and welding, but also for difficult applications such as medical tests. Ecosystem partners who develop accessories such as grippers, feeding systems and cameras will have access to a digital tool that allows them to share product-specific functionalities regardless of the type of robot to be used.

Wizard Easy Programming is pre-installed on all cobots and new six-axis industrial robots running ABB’s OmniCore controller. The leading robot controllers of the OmniCore family are characterized by an energy saving potential of 20 percent on average and a high degree of future-proofing – thanks to integrated digital connectivity and over 1,000 scalable functions.

More information about Wizard Easy Programming is available here.

Variobot VariAnt: The Robot Ant

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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.

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

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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

Web-based VEXcode EXP

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VEXcode EXP is now available in a web-based version for Chrome browsers. The web-based version can be reached by navigating to codeexp.vex.com and contains all of the features and functionality of VEXcode EXP, but without the need to download or install anything! The new web-based version of VEXcode makes it easier for teachers and students to access projects from anywhere, at any time, on any device – including Chromebooks!

In addition to the built-in Help and Tutorials, the STEM Library contains additional resources and support for using web-based VEXcode EXP. Within the STEM Library you can find device-specific articles for connecting to web-based VEXcode EXP, loading and saving projects, updating firmware, and more. View the VEXcode EXP section of the STEM Library to learn more.

Web-based versions of VEXcode IQ and VEXcode V5 are in the works and will be available soon.

Lego Mindstorms Robot Inventor/Spike Prime (51515/45678) Adapterplatine für den Ultraschallsensor

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Gastbeitrag von brickobotik:

Der SPIKETM Prime von LEGO Education ist inzwischen seit über einem Jahr auf dem Markt. Wir haben ihn euch in unserem großen Test ausführlich vorgestellt. Inzwischen ist auch der Inventor 51515 also die Home-Variante des SPIKETM Prime erhältlich. Bei beiden ist die Software nun auf einem adäquaten Level angekommen. Inzwischen haben wir auch unser E-Book zur SPIKETM Prime Classroom-Software veröffentlicht, das für alle, die noch Fragen zur Programmierung der Roboters haben, definitiv einen Blick wert ist.

Für uns bei brickobotik geht die Arbeit mit dem SPIKETM Prime aber trotzdem weiter. Zum einen natürlich in unseren Workshops und Fortbildungen, die wir zu diesem Roboter durchführen. Aber auch die Elektrotechnik des SPIKETM beschäftigt uns. Deshalb geben wir euch in diesem Artikel einen kleinen Einblick in unsere „brickobotik-Bastelstube“ und stellen ein Projekt vor, an dem wir gerade arbeiten.


Viele von euch ist sicher aufgefallen, dass der Ultraschallsensor von SPIKETM Prime und Mindstorms Inventor im Gegensatz zu den anderen Sensoren auf seiner Rückseite zwei Torx-Schrauben zeigt. Wenn man diese herausschraubt, kann man die weiße Sensoreinheit des Ultraschallsensors entfernen und hält dann nur die schwarze Schale in der Hand. Darin kommt das Kabel des LEGO Powered-Up-Steckers an und wird auf eine Buchsenleiste verteilt.

Diese Buchsenleiste (es handelt sich um einen 8-Pin Female Header) ist mit einem Rastermaß von 1,27 mm sehr klein und es kann deshalb ziemlich fummelig werden, sie mit herkömmlichen Arduino-Kabeln zu nutzen. Darum haben wir eine passende Adapterplatine entwickelt, welche die kleine Buchsenleiste auf das typische Rastermaß von 2,54 mm übersetzt, wie man es vom Arduino, Steckbrettern, Lochrasterplatinen, etc. kennt.

Technische Details zur Platine

Die Power-Funotions-2.O-Verbindung führt sechs Kontakte:

1X 3,3 V Spannungsversorgung
1X GND
2 digitale Ein-/Ausgänge (GPIO), welche auch für UART (115200 Baud, 8N1) verwendet werden können.
Achtung! Die GPlOs liefern nicht genug Strom, um LEDs direkt zu betreiben! Es wird eine Transistorschaltung benötigt, um eine LED aus der 3,3 V Spannungsversorgung zu speisen.

2x PWM für Motoren

Achtung! Die Spannung dieser Signale kommt direkt vom Akku des SPIKETM Prime! Diese liegt nach unseren Messungen zwischen 8,4 V und 6,3 V.

Für die GPlO-Kontakte ist auf der Platine je ein Widerstand vorgesehen, welcher einen minimalen Schutz gegen falsche GPlO-Konfigurationen darstellt. Sie können aber auch einfach überbrückt werden.

Nach links und rechts sind die gleichen Kontakte noch einmal ausgeführt. So sind auf der einen Seite der Platine die GPlO-Kontakte mit Spannungsversorgung ausgeführt und auf der anderen Seite die PWM-Kontakte mit Spannungsversorgung – und zwar sowohl im Rastermaß 2,54 mm als auch im Rastermaß 2,00 mm für das Grove-Stecksystem. Für die Kontakte links und rechts ist die Spannungsversorgung von 3,3 V durch eine offene Lötbrücke unterbrochen, damit zum Beispiel bei Verwendung eines Calliope mini die unabhängigen Spannungsversorgungen beider Geräte nicht zerstörerisch konkurrieren. Die offene Lötbrücke kann bei Bedarf mit etwas Lötzinn geschlossen werden.

Neue Möglichkeiten durch die Platine

Mit der Platine ist es deutlich einfacher, weitere Sensoren oder Motoren anzuschließen und mit dem SPIKETM Prime zu nutzen. Auch eine Verbindung zu Mikrocontrollern wie dem Calliope mini ist möglich. Aber es gibt eine wichtige Einschränkung: Solche Projekte sind eher für fortgeschrittene Nutzer*innen geeignet. Sowohl die Verdrahtung als auch das Programmieren erfordern Erfahrung mit der Elektronik und den entsprechenden Sensorprotokollen.

Technische Details zur Ansteuerung

Das direkte Ansteuern der Kontakte funktioniert über die SPIKETM-Prime-App, allerdings nur in Python-Projekten und auf eigene Faust. Es gibt kein von LEGO gestelltes „UltrasonicBreakout“ Python-Modul o.ä. Beschreibungen und Anleitungen zur den entsprechenden Micropython-Klassen und -Methoden kursieren jedoch im Internet. Wer Erfahrung mit anderen Micropython-Geräten, speziell der Bedienung der Micropython-REPL, mitbringt, kann hier schnell Fuß fassen.

Bestellt eure eigene Adapterplatine!

Wir werden bei brickobotik mit der Platine weiterarbeiten, um die Verbindung mit verschiedenen Sensoren zu testen. Allen Bastler*innen, die jetzt Lust bekommen haben, ebenfalls mit Verbindungen zum SPIKETM Prime zu experimentieren, möchten wir die Möglichkeit geben, unsere Adapterplatine dafür zu nutzen. Wenn ihr also Interesse an der beschriebenen Platine habt und sie über uns erwerben wollte, dann schreibt uns eine E-Mail an [email protected]. Wir sammeln die Anfragen und wenn genügend Interessent*innen zusammenkommen, geben wir euch per Mail Bescheid, sobald die Platine vorbestellbar ist. Du willst nicht selbst basteln, bist aber interessiert an einem bestimmten Sensor, den man mit dem SPIKETM Prime verbinden könnte? Dann besuch uns auf www.brickobotik.de und lass uns einen Kommentar oder eine Nachricht mit deinen Wünschen da. Wir werden versuchen, sie für kommende Projekte zu berücksichtigen