Final working prototype.
Remember how we used to get data into computers before the uber fast broadband speeds we have today? FSK or Frequency Shift Modulation - or those beeps and squelches made by your modem or tape loader, back in the day. This is the same way data is programmed into a RoBlock - cheap, and will work with any device with an audio output!
A custom robot was designed in 3D, printed, painted and decalled. The hardware was developed around an 8 bit microprocessor. A H-Bridge drives 2 geared traction motors, and 4 I/O ports are added 2 at the front, and rear. The I/O ports are coupled to accessories using magnets. This provides a rhobust communication and easy to attach/detach coupling system.
A selection of accessories were completed - Light sensor, Bump (Switch) sensor, Ultrasonic sensor and mechanical lifter (Forklift).
The code is generated on a smartphone/tablet, then compiled and converted into FSK audio. This is then sent via a headphone jack to the RoBlock. The user presses the upload button when prompted and the RoBlock goes into the audio bootloader mode. The audio is then loaded into memory the same way a tape loads a game into am 80's computer. The user can then run the new code. As the code is writted to the flash ROM space on the microcontroller it persists even after a power cycle.
3D printed parts.
After sanding & paint.
Electronic hardware development.
Test Forklift with pen mount.
Prototype demo video.
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