Carrying a modular design is one of the most challenging
things in the robotics field. This method will make the robot more flexible and
is not stuck in certain form that will limit its functionality. The modular
approach will also make the robot looks more attractive in front of the
consumers, especially if the manufacturer intends to market the robot as
end-user product.
We have seen a lot of manufactures use nature as a reference
to make sophisticated works such as rattlesnake robot, bat robot, octopus
robot, and also cheetah robot. This time the KEYi Technology Inc. from San Jose
gets an inspiration from the body cell in working on a modular robot. This
robot is named CellRobot, a smart robot that can be assembled into a variety of
shapes, supporting the needs of education and entertainment.
Not much different from the cell units in the living body,
each unit of CellRobot cooperates with each other. It has round form and
slightly smaller than the palm. There are three main parts: Heart, X-Cell and
Cell. They are distinguished by capabilities and a number of connectivity. Via
connector, the cells can be combined and arranged into various configurations.
As the name suggests, Heart is the center of the CellRobot.
It is responsible for supplying power to the other modules and connects the
robot to mobile device. Heart has a series of ports and connectors, screen,
sound output holes, and lights indicator. Via the application, you are welcome
to choose modes - Guide or Custom - and by choice, you can begin to customize
or choose a preset.
Cell division acts as the muscles and structures. Cell is
saving motors, sensors, and independent microprogrammed control. Once connected
to Heart, Cell can be ordered to move in any direction or angle you want. Then
the X-Cell will release the full potential of robot in the form of spotlight,
360-degree panoramic camera, wheels, and others.
In designing the CellRobot, KEYi Technology wants to make it
as simple as possible, but developer still opens an opportunity for enthusiasts
to tinkering with the components. Developer explains that CellRobot does have a
few drawbacks such as the high production cost, can't move fast, can't fly, unable
to fly, or not as sophisticated as microbot in the Big Hero 6 movie, but at
least it can be exploited to become a learning platform.
CellRobot can be ordered through crowdfunding site
Kickstarter. The starter kit is priced at US $ 179, and KEYi Technology needs
at least US $ 75 thousand for completing its project.