Tuesday, January 09, 2007

News: iRobot Introduces the iRobot Create!

A robust, programmable Robot platform that invites you to stretch your imagination

iRobot, a pioneering robot company that has sold millions of iRobot Roomba vacuuming robots, has introduced a remarkable robot platform that fills a major gap.

The iRobot Create is a dependable, rugged and versatile robot base that can be used for uncounted robotics hobby and research applications. It includes a selection of software routines developed for iRobot’s commercial appliance bots and a well-engineered, robust chassis designed for longevity. Many will consider this to be a DIY-roboticist’s dream come true.

Here, we offer a summary of the iRobot Create’s features in this First Look, initial comments by contributing editor Dan Lynch (who has been playing with one for a few days as of this post) and an interesting overview of applications designed for this new robot platform by iRobot employees worldwide. Stay tuned for an in-depth feature article in the Summer 2007 issue of Robot.

The iRobot Create comes fully assembled. It has 32 built-in sensors, two powered wheels, a castor (and optional 4th castor wheel), 10 pre-programmed behaviors, an expandable input/ouput port for custom sensors and actuators, a cargo bay with mounting points and a tailgate for ballast. This new bot platform works with optional accessories such as the iRobot Command Module, iRobot Roomba Virtual Wall units, the self-charging home base, and iRobot Roomba standard remote. You can use the Roomba rechargeable battery options or standard alkaline batteries. You’ll need a computer with a serial port (USB connectivity is expected soon) and Microsoft Windows XP, Linux or Mac OS X. - Link

Related: iRobot "Create" - Educational robot - Link

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