DFRobot - HCR-Mobile robot platform Review

Introduction

We initially looked into the DFRobot HCR Platform because it was so expandable and was an obvious candidate for our future project related to Home Care Robotics. Previously, we selected another platform, however, that platform that we chose lacked in scalability and features. Furthermore, it was a tracked platform which made it prone to problems in the house.



Once we recieved the DFRobot HCR Platform we quickly opened up and began the review process. What we noticed right away when we opened the kit is that there were many pieces to work with. Furthermore, like DFRobot's other products we found the construction of the pieces in the kit to be top notch. No expense spared in this kit thats for sure! Morever, we noticed the kit was designed from the ground up to house many of the easy to DFRobot sensors and devices. Complete with proper mounting plates and hardware.

There are two things that stood out to us. The first being the large rollerblade like wheels. These wheels give great support and grip on many surfaces. Allowing it to be used both indoors and outdoors. The latter being that the entire lower section of the platform is designed to hold a large battery. So large that we had to custom order the battery.

Now, you may ask - wow a custom battery. Typically the kits we work with use your standard hobby batterys (i.e. 7.2v or 9.6v). These batteries could be used with this kit. However, it will not do the platform justice. Lastly, the platform came with all the wiring required for this battery - PLUS - the ability to easily charge it without removing it from the robot! Kudos to DFRobot - GREAT JOB!

Overview

The DFRobot HCR Platform provides a 2WD system complete with two dc motors with DFRobot encoders on each. The DC Motors are your typical grade DC motors and appear to have a good construction and quality.

DFRobot HCR Platform Features

• Aluminum power-coated orange
• Two 17w DC motors with 64:1 Gearbox 120 rpm
• Two (2 Phases) encoders with 12 PPR
• 2 wheels (and one rotating third wheel)
• Associated plates and hardware
• Three bumper sensors
• Five Sharp GP2D12 infrared sensors
• Romeo Controller board (Arduino compatible)
• Weight: 5.2kg
• Dimensions: 34.2cmx31.3cmx26.6cm

DFRobot DC Motor Specifications

• Working voltage: 12V
• No load speed:8100RPM
• RPM :120RPM
• Diameter:30mm
• Length:42mm
• Nominal output power:17W
• No load current: 75mA
• Load current：1400mA
• Gearbox ratio:66:1
• Encoders:Optical
• Encoder Phase:AB
• Encoder Resolution:12CPR

What comes in the kit?

• HCR Kit (including two motors with encoders)
• Five Sharp GP2D12 infrared sensors
• Romeo Controller board (Arduino compatible)

Quick Review

Check out these videos for a quick introduction to the platform. Definately worth seeing. If you are serious about building a true home care robot or office care - this is the platform for you!

Assembly and Construction

To make this part as easy and straight forward as possible we have recorded a multi-part step by step video of how to assemble and work with the DFRobot HCR Mobile Robot Platform.

Support

We gave DFRobot a 5 for support. One of the main reasons is because we have never needed any with their products. Imagine that. A product that does not require support. In a previous review we gave them a 4 but this time around we decided to give them 5 stars. They truly put out a good product.

One of the best things of our world today is when a company like DFRobot has a website that matches their products. There website is a wealth of knowledge on all their products. If you can't find it there they just may not find it.

Conclusion

Overall this is a great kit if you wish to build a robot either for research or for the home. This kit can be used by intermediate to advanced users. We truely thought the quality of construction of the kit was superb. Although this may be a pricey platform - the price is right for what you get. Like we stated earlier - no expense spared on this kit.

Where to buy?

DIYbin.com
DFRobot
YeRobot