3D Printed Robotic Platform by BoxBotix

What are DIY Robotic Platforms?

Do-It-Yourself (DIY) robotics platforms are modular systems or kits that aid users in developing need-specific robots or parts. DIY robotics platforms contain all the necessary tools and components to build customized devices, tools, or robots. 

A typical DIY robotics kit includes mechanical components, sensors, a microcontroller or a single-board controlling device, actuators, and electronics. Complicated DIY robotics kits also include software frameworks and documentation to help users create, program, and customize their robots.   

Because of the simplicity, affordability, and level of support, these platforms are popular among newbies and pros alike. Not only do they offer a great learning opportunity, but they also provide hands-on exploration. 

Various DIY robotics platforms exist, including open-source platforms, robotics kits, and modular systems. Examples include Arduino-based platforms, LEGO Mindstorms, and BoxBotix. 

Versatile 3D Printed Platforms

The 3D-printed modular platform, BoxBotix, was launched by Rocketship Systems in 2015. Over the years, many robotics enthusiasts and developers have leveraged this system to design and fabricate machines, tools, models, and even platforms.

BoxBotix has proven its worth, thanks to its 3D printing ability to produce prototypes. It can also be used for building customized robotics components for cars, planes, quadcopters, and more. 

Complete Frame kits featuring 3D-printed components are also available. Both kits offer more than 130 high-quality parts.

BoxBotix 3D printed robotics kits are categorized into BBCopter, BBPlane, and BBRover. The BBCopter (rotor) provides the primary platform to build quadcopters, while BBPlane and BBRover are meant to develop airplanes and ground vehicles.

Build Need-Specific Robotic Platforms 

BoxBotix offers various robotic open-source and modular platforms in the form of robotics kits. These DIY modular kits can be used to configure Aerospace, Maritime, and EdTech projects. 

3D Printed Robotic Platforms in Aerospace Engineering

In aerospace engineering, 3D-printed robotic platforms have a broad scope thanks to their accessibility and affordability. 

Unlike traditional manufacturing, 3D-printed modular platforms are more viable for spacecraft. These platforms help produce customized industrial and robotics components and make it easier to test different components and subsystems. 

In this context, Boxbotix robotic platforms help in producing prototypes, aiding engineers in designing iterations and optimizing the final product.

Furthermore, the 3D-printed components and systems are lightweight, resulting in fuel efficiency and higher payload capacity. The lightweight structures enable engineers to build task-specific components for inspection, maintenance, and assembly, especially in space. 

The fabricated robotic systems can be integrated with the existing equipment or structures. For example, swarm robotics systems can accomplish complicated tasks during space exploration or planetary missions, such as data collection, exploration, or collaborative assembly. 

This is where Boxbotix robotic platforms serve aerospace engineers in designing small-scale robots to perform these tasks with utmost precision. 

Ideal for EdTech Applications

Another area where 3D-printed robotic platforms have been quite popular is the EdTech industry. DIY platforms like BoxBotix allow students, hobbyists, and robot enthusiasts to apply their skills and creativity. This, in turn, becomes an excellent learning curve for them. 

The high-quality 3D prints offer a hands-on learning experience to students. By assembling, designing, and programming these components, students of all ages can learn STEM concepts and gain a deeper understanding of electronics, physics, and robotics. 

3D-printed robotic platforms are not only meant for one field. In Mathematics, Arts, Physics, and Designing, DIY robotic platforms can give students a more cohesive learning experience. In the process, the students learn to solve real-life problems and create products for the betterment of society.