Robots Weblog | The brand new academic robotic MAKEBLOCK mBot2 may even be managed through facial expressions and reproduces feelings because of AI

The mBot2 programming robot replaces the globally successful mBot1 after 8 years and impresses with cutting-edge sensors, new motors and a brand new AI control board in a familiar design. For children, teachers and tinkerers who want to learn more about computer science, STEM, IoT, AI and block-based coding while playing

Ubstadt-Weiher, April 29, 2021 – Over the past eight years, MAKEBLOCK’s educational robot mBot has not only taught complex STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) concepts to millions of children, students, teachers and aspiring programmers around the world in a playful way, but has also put a smile on their faces after completing successful missions. And the success story continues with the new mBot2: Under the carefully modified shell, which is now made of robust aluminum, concentrated state-of-the-art technology is packed, enabling countless new programming and application possibilities. The most striking thing at first glance are the next-generation ultrasonic sensors, which look at you in brilliant blue. Who can resist this seductive look? The blue “eyes” are not only suitable for precise distance measurement, they also convey emotions with the help of the controllable ambient lighting. The mBot2 actually seeks eye contact with the little programmers, because the AI image recognition allows the speed to be controlled via facial expressions, for example.

The “brain” of the mBot2 is the powerful CyberPi microcontroller with integrated color display, loudspeaker, microphone, light sensor, gyroscope, RGB display and more. The built-in WiFi and Bluetooth module enables connection to the Internet for smart functions such as speech recognition, speech synthesis, LAN broadcast and uploading data to Google Sheets. The mBot2 is currently the most exciting toy robot to build yourself (only a screwdriver is required), can be expanded in many ways and offers great freedom of design when programming, which also allows you to experience the inner workings of a robot: Now available for a RRP of 139.- EUR (incl. VAT) in the Solectric online shop.

mBot2 communicates with its environment – powered by CyberPi

One of the most important innovations of the mBot2 compared to the previous version is its network capability with the help of the CyberPi microcomputer. In combination with the mBlock coding editor, the programmable powerhouse is a practical learning aid for computer science and AI training and places hardly any limits on the children’s play instinct. Teachers have the option of using Google Classroom, for example, to conduct interactive and advanced lessons in which several mBot2 communicate with each other via the Internet. This allows data from different devices to be collected, visualized and processed and initial programming for AI and IoT (Internet of Things) applications to be learned.

“The little educational robot mBot2 makes programming child’s play and encourages children to play creatively and interactively,” explains Alexander Hantke, Head of Solectric Education. “The mBot2 is the ideal gift for children who are interested in electronics, robotics and programming. When children see how other family members are also enthusiastic about the subject, they are often carried away by it. But it is also important to let children make their own mistakes with the mBot2 in order to keep the fun factor high over a long period of time.”

The CyberPi controller with 1.44″ full-color display for displaying data, images and other information can be used not only as the robot’s data center, but also as a handheld device such as a game controller or monitoring device. The integrated memory and operating system make it possible to store and manage up to eight programs in the controller.

Things get really exciting when you connect multiple mBots2 to create a local network of robots that communicate with each other, exchange information and carry out tasks. If the mBot2 is connected to the Internet, it can perform advanced functions such as voice recognition, connect to a cloud or retrieve weather information. The 3-axis gyroscope built into the CyberPi and the acceleration sensor for the optical encoder motors, which have a torque of 1.5 kg-cm, a maximum speed of 200 rpm and a detection accuracy of 1°, promise maximum precision in controlling the rotation, speed and position of the wheels and the robot.

mBlock – the powerful coding platform for easy entry into computer science and STEM teaching

The programmable robot helps children learn programming step by step through interactive drag-and-drop software. With the extensive tutorials and the included project cases, the young explorers can start with graphical programming and use the Scratch or Arduino C programming languages with one click. The mBlock software is compatible with Windows, MacOS, Linux and Chromebook and also supports Android and iOS. Together with mBlock, the mBot2 becomes a powerful tool for getting in touch with advanced technologies such as AI, IoT and data science. Students start with block-based coding and move on to Python coding as they gain experience. The Python Editor supports the young programmers with smart features such as intelligent auto-completion and syntax highlighting.

Expandable with mBuild modules and Makeblock components

The mBot2 can extend the range of action with more than 60 different mBuild modules and connect up to 10 different sensors, motors, LEDs or other components in series at the same time. Each module has a built-in Micro-Controller Unit (MCU), which allows the modules to be connected without prior disconnection or in a specific order. Meanwhile, additional packages are also available for this programmable robot for children (not included) that teach programming, robotics, electronics and construction while allowing students to program and execute interactive missions through hands-on learning.

The mBot2 is equipped with a 2,500 mAh battery in the so-called mBot2 Shield, which can be conveniently charged via a USB C cable. The mBot2 Shield also has two ports for encoder motors, two ports for DC motors and four ports for servos. Some of the servo ports can be connected to LED strips and analog/digital Arduino sensors.

For further information please visit Solectric’s online shop: https://shop.solectric.de/educational/makeblock/mbot/3729/makeblock-mbot-2?c=4807