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.
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.
Sebastian Trella from Robots-Blog had the opportunity to conduct a short interview with Roy Barazani from „the OffBits“.
Roy Barazani from „the OffBits“
· Robots-Blog: Who are you and what is your job at the OffBits?
Roy: I am Roy Barazani – The OffBits founding father
· Robots-Blog: What inspired you to create the OffBits toy?
Roy: I guess I’ve always been fascinated by the idea of re-design. Even as a child I used to break my toys apart and try to rebuild them in new and different ways. Looking back, this allowed me to develop my imagination and ability to fantasize.
· Robots-Blog: How did you come up with the name „the OffBits„?
Roy: The OFFBITS started out by playing with random parts I found in my toolbox while working on an exercise before starting my design studies in college. Suddenly I found I had made a little robot! I kept this idea with me during my studies, and for my final project built a whole city of them made from recycled parts. It was really well received and I knew I had a great idea in my hands. It took a few years of development and testing in Maker Faire events and boutique design stores and now I finally feel they are ready for the world.
· Robots-Blog: Do you have a lot to do with robots in your job/everyday life?
Roy: Yes, I love robots and I have collected robots for years!
· Robots-Blog: How did sustainability factor into the creation of the OffBits?
Roy: I see The OFFBITS as a new way of playing with toys, an “open-source” platform with no rules, so each creation can be as unique as the one who built it. I love the way people can take the original design and then make something completely different. Also, the fact it is made of components we all have around us means there are no cost or availability limits to what people can do with them.
Offbits are a sustainable and eco-friendly educational toy that encourages zero-waste principles and practices through a fun and interactive experience. It’s a great way to bring awareness and inspire positive actions in preserving the environment.
We don’t think you need many toys, but what you do choose should be made to last.
The possibilities are endless with The Offbits, you can create anything from a simple robot to a complex model while using sustainable materials and reducing waste.
· Robots-Blog: And which is your favorite robot from the OffBits?
Roy: I love all my robots family!
· Robots-Blog: Can you tell us about any challenges you faced while designing the OffBits?
Roy: From a design perspective, working with standard hardware components brought many unique challenges. For example, choosing the right mix of bits in the kits (both functionally and aesthetically) required a lot of trial-and-error type work, and then of course there is the issue of connecting parts that weren’t designed to fit together.
· Robots-Blog: How do you envision the OffBits evolving in education fields?
Roy: This is a S.T.E.A.M toy helping young minds grow in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math. The OffBits toys encourage the development of fine motor skills, spatial reasoning, problem-solving, and imaginative play.
The hands-on building process allows users to learn about robotics and engineering concepts in a fun and interactive way. The step-by-step instructions for building and programming the Offbits kits, making it easy for users of all ages to understand the principles behind the technology.
The OffBits offer educational resources such as workshops, online tutorials, and educational material that could help kids to learn about sustainable practices and technologies.
· Robots-Blog: What can you tell us about your community?
Roy: The Offbits community feature allows users to share their creations and ideas, providing inspiration and a sense of collaboration. The Offbits users have challenges for every level. When they create, share and pass the challenge they can earn tokens for their future purchases.
Are you a fan of intelligent robots and artificial intelligence? The Robosen company has recently announced that the Flagship Optimus Prime robot will soon be available in Germany. This is especially great news for all Transformers fans who have always dreamed of owning their own Optimus Prime robot. This new version is also the world’s first auto-convertible Optimus Prime. Robosen Flagship Optimus Prime is a highly complex and interactive robot toy that is supposed to imitate the iconic character from the Transformers franchise. More information is available here on robots-blog.com and on the Robosenwebsite.
What is the Robosen Flagship Optimus Prime?
The Robosen Flagship Optimus Prime is a stunning robot based on the iconic and also arguably most famous Transformers character. The robot is able to transform from a moving truck into a robot and is equipped with a variety of smart features. It is 19 inches tall, 2.8kg heavy and constructed from premium components that are strong and long-lasting. More than 5,000 parts make up the robot toy, including 60 microchips and 27 servo motors that give it its sophisticated capabilities.
The robot is equipped with advanced technology, which gives it a variety of capabilities. For example, it can be controlled by simple voice commands to move or perform certain actions. A built-in speaker on the robot toy allows it to play music and sound effects, further enhancing the realistic experience.
In addition, the robot has an advanced motion system that allows it to move in unique ways. The robot can move on both legs and wheels and is capable of performing fast movements and complex choreographies. Robosen Flagship Optimus Prime is powered by a rechargeable battery that provides up to 4 hours of playtime on a single charge.
Transforming Mechanism
One of the Robosen Flagship Optimus Prime’s most striking characteristics is its transforming system. It converts from a robot to a vehicle using a complex motor system that can carry out fast and precise movements. It is one of the fastest transforming robot toys available because the full transformation takes only 5 seconds. Advanced algorithms enable Optimus Prime to walk on two legs.
Voice Command System
Immersive Voice Commands power the interaction with Robosen Flagship Optimus Prime’s vocal command system, enabling it to recognize and carry out a variety of speech orders. By just saying commands like „transform,“ „roll out,“ and „attack,“ users may direct the robot toy. The voice command system is an excellent feature for both kids and adults because it is made to be simple to use and is incredibly responsive.
What are the main features of the Robosen Flagship Optimus Prime?
Robosen Flagship Optimus Prime has a wide range of functions that make it a fascinating and entertaining robot. Among the most important functions are:
– Intelligent control (Voice Activated): the robot can be controlled by simple voice commands to move or perform certain actions.
– Smartphone app (Remote Control): the robot has its own app that allows the user to customize various settings and functions. Optimus Prime can be remotely controlled or programmed through the app.
– Movement system: the robot is equipped with an advanced movement system that allows it to move in unique ways.
– Programmable functions: The robot can be programmed by users to perform certain movements and actions. The program/movement sequences created can then be shared with other users to expand the functions for all users.
What can you do with the accompanying smartphone app?
Connect the app to the Robosen Optimus Prime robot to bring Optimus Prime to life while learning to program and enjoying an immersive experience. Let Optimus Prime go on excursions, reenact movie scenes, or challenge him to take on various tasks and challenges. Completing missions in the app unlocks additional features for Optimus Prime, resulting in a more interactive gaming experience. You can also watch videos in the app to see cool actions from Optimus Prime and get inspired by what other programmers are doing with their Optimus Prime robots. The smartphone app is already available now for IOS and Android.
Comparison with other Transformers Toys in the market
Robosen Flagship Optimus Prime stands out from other Transformers toys in the market due to its advanced features and functionality. While there are other transforming robot toys available, none of them offer the same level of interactivity and control as Robosen Flagship Optimus Prime. Its voice command system, mobile app elements and licensed sounds and voices from the movies make it a unique and engaging toy that offers a more immersive and interactive experience for users.
Where can the Robosen Flagship Optimus Prime be purchased?
The Robosen Flagship Optimus Prime will soon be available in Germany for 999€. Interested parties can order the robot directly on the Robosen website. Robosen Robotics has also shown interest in using its robotics technology to enter new areas, including those in education. Seeing how the business innovates and creates new goods in the future will be exciting.
Bring the epic battle between the Autobots and Decepticons to life with Robosen Flagship Optimus Prime, the ultimate transforming robot toy. With its advanced features, interactivity, and responsiveness, it offers a unique and engaging experience for all ages. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind toy, get yours today!
So einfach kann es sein, einen eigenen Roboter zu konstruieren! Die kleinen Roboter aus der neuen Reihe ReBotz sind mit wenigen Handgriffen zusammengebaut. Mit Batterien versorgt, bringen sie Kinder ab acht Jahren mit Ihren kuriosen Fortbewegungsarten zum Staunen und mit ihren besonderen Charakteren zum Schmunzeln. Besonders Spaß macht es, die Körperteile der verschiedenen ReBotz durcheinander zu mischen und so ganz neue Fortbewegungsmethoden zu erfinden. Auf diese Weise wird die Sammelleidenschaft und die Lust der jungen Forscherinnen und Forscher am Experimentieren geweckt.
Auch wenn ich schon viele Roboter gebaut und getestet habe, ist dies heute eine Premiere! In den letzten Tagen habe ich zum ersten Mal einen Roboter von fischertechnik gebaut. Die Pressankündigung des fischertechnik Robotics Smarttech haben wir bereits in den letzten Tagen vorgestellt. [LINK]
Nun durfte ich ihn selber testen. Das Bausystem war mir zwar neu, hat mir aber auf Anhieb Spaß gemacht und ist wirklich einfach zu verwenden. Hat man sich einmal an die Bauanleitung und deren Stil gewöhnt, ist diese einfach verständlich. Während des Zusammenbaus des vierrädrigen Roboters mit den Omniwheels und dem Gestensensor, der mich ungefähr vier Stunden beschäftigt hat, habe ich dann auch gelernt auf welche Feinheiten ich in der Anleitung achten muss. Mir, als fischertechnik Neuling, sind zwei, drei Fehler passiert, die mir aber beim nächsten fischertechnik Modell bestimmt nicht mehr passieren würden. Überrascht war ich, dass man bei diesem Set die Kabel noch selber ablängen, abisolieren und die Steckverbinder anbringen muss. Das war ich aus anderem Roboter Kästen bisher nicht gewohnt; dies bietet aber die tolle Möglichkeit Kabel nach eigenen Wünschen und Längen zu erstellen. Diese Möglichkeit besteht bei vielen anderen Herstellern nicht und gerade wenn man mal einen etwas größeren Roboter baut, ist es von Vorteil wenn man lange Kabel selber fertigen kann.
Die Bauteile halten gut zusammen und es lassen sich sehr stabile Roboter konstruieren. Kinder brauchen hier vielleicht an der ein oder anderen Stelle etwas Unterstützung wenn die Teile, gerade wenn sie noch neu sind, noch etwas schwergängig zusammen zu stecken sind. Der von mir gebaute Roboter war dafür im Anschluss sehr stabil und überlebt selbst kleinere Stürze ohne dass Teile abfallen.
Die coolen Omniwheels ermöglichen es dem Roboter jederzeit in jede Richtung zu fahren. Solche Räder findet man in Robotersets leider viel zu selten! Daher fiel die erste Wahl auch direkt auf das Basismodell mit den neuen Omniwheels. Anschließend habe ich dies mit dem Spursensor und dem Gestensensor erweitert. Neben diesen beiden Modellvarianten sind Anleitungen für weitere sieben Roboter enthalten.
Der Roboter lässt sich entweder mit einem Netzteil oder mit einem Akku-Set betreiben, beides muss leider extra erworben werden.
Die aktuellste Version der für die Programmierung benötigten Software ROBOPro fand ich auf der Homepage von fischertechnik. Nachdem ich den Roboter über die Konfiguration auf dessen Touchscreen mit meinem WLAN verbunden habe (Okay: USB oder Bluetooth wäre auch gegangen, aber der Geek in mir musste direkt WLAN ausprobieren), konnte ich diesen mit der ROBOPro Software verbinden und programmieren. Das für die Cloud Funktionen benötigte Update wurde beim ersten Verbinden mit der ROBOPro Software mir sofort angeboten und ich konnte es problemlos installieren. Mit diesem Update lässt sich der Roboter als IoT Device in die fischertechnik Cloud einbinden und als smartes Gerät mit dem Internet kommunizieren. So kann man zum Beispiel eine Alarmanlage bauen, die einen über das Internet beim Auslösen alarmiert.
Neben der Möglichkeit in der ROBOPro Software grafisch zu programmieren, kann mit einer zusätzlichen frei verfügbaren Software auch in Scratch grafisch programmiert werden. Wer lieber textbasiert programmieren möchte kann dies auch in C. Da das Betriebssystem des Roboters auf Linux basiert, gibt es hier bestimmt noch jede Menge weitere, mir bisher unbekannte, Möglichkeiten den Roboter zu „hacken“ und noch mehr Funktionen hinzuzufügen. Das Einloggen auf dem Roboter per SSH ist auf jeden Fall möglich und über den SD-Karten Slot lassen sich alternative Betriebssysteme installieren und der Speicher erweitern.
Mein erster fischertechnik Roboter, genauer der Robotics Smarttech Roboter, hat mir bisher Freude bereitet und ich hatte Spaß daran mal ein mir bisher unbekannte Bausystem auszuprobieren. Mit den „selbstgebauten“ Kabeln und den universellen Ei- und Ausgängen am Controller, sowie der Cloud Anbindung, finden sich sicherlich auch tolle Einsatzmöglichkeiten abseits vom Einsatz als Spielzeugroboter.
