VEX robotics solutions is the world’s leading robotic solutions for student learning in the world. VEX is from the USA and is being used globally and VEX products form the basis of the leading robotics competitions.
The VEX Robotics Design System offers students an exciting platform for learning about areas rich with career opportunities spanning science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). These are just a few of the many fields students can explore by creating with VEX Robotics technology. Beyond science and engineering principles, a VEX Robotics project encourages teamwork, leadership and problem solving among groups. It also allows educators to easily customize projects to meet the level of students’ abilities. The affordable VEX platform is expanding rapidly and is now found in middle schools, high schools and university labs around the globe. Robotics hobbyists also appreciate the advanced capabilities of the VEX System.
The Hexbug Micro Robotic Creatures are fun little gadgets that employ nature-inspired sensors to “feel” their way around. These tiny battery-powered insects have little practical purpose other than entertainment, but their ingenious design will wow you.
Similar to a wind-up toy but infinitely better, the Hexbug is battery-powered and moves around any smooth, flat surfaces thanks to its six articulated legs. There are five different versions, named Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Delta and Echo. Each version has its own shape and color, but all of the Hexbugs are approximately 2-1/4 inches wide, 3 inches long and just over 1 inch tall. The legs attach to the body with an intricate triple-action pin and connecting lever. The feet are tiny rubber pads that grip and pull the Hexbug as it pivots its way around obstacles.
The Hexbug has some clever features, including a translucent top casing that lets kids (and adults!) see the innards. In this case, the “guts” center around a computer chip, which we swear has two little bug eyes at the front. The Hexbug resembles an actual bug, with two antennae located at the front of the creature. The antennae are touch-sensitive, so any time the Hexbug encounters an obstacle, it pivots and changes direction to go around it.
Another interesting feature is the Hexbug’s ability to detect sounds. A hand clap or other loud noise causes the device to change direction. It is difficult to tell if the Hexbug has a set directional pattern or if it chooses its path randomly. For example, the Charlie bug (which we tested) appeared to head to the right when forced to take a new path. However, we did catch Charlie turning to the left on occasion.
Certain obstacles such as radiators can trip the Hexbug or stop its motion entirely, so your assistance may be required. Each bug requires a pair of small lithium batteries, which come included.
MechRC from the UK is the world’s first humanoid robot for use in after-school courses. This is a British invention from a team based out of the University of Reading that is currently being rolled out in UK schools.
The new humanoid robot for education from RM MechRC, ED-E represents the latest in advanced robotics technology, hitherto was only available to research departments in universities. ED-E brings advanced robotics into the classroom and gives students an opportunity to try out otherwise complex modelling tasks with apparent ease using the unique Animator software.
ED-E comprises 17 servo motors which allows for a high degree of seemingly fluid 3D movement. ED-E can walk, dance, perform back-flips and much more. Simply load the Animator software, create a movie strip frame by frame, whilst setting up the robot movements on screen with the click of a mouse. When the movie strip is complete, download to the remote handset and assign a button or button combination. ED-E is then ready to go – but watch out – what may work on screen does not necessarily relate to the real world! ED-E has mass and when gravity comes into play, you will need to ensure that ED-E shifts his weight accordingly to avoid toppling over.
TOLO Education products from the UK offer excellent development play value, along with fun and excitement during a child’s formative years. The education range has its heritage in the existing TOLO Toys product range, but offers unique combinations and ideas for teachers, practitioners and advisors alike. Almost all TOLO products have received awards from prestigious and internationally recognized bodies, including those associated with the education of young children.
