Introduction

In todays review we will be checking out Open Source Robotics Arduino OSBase robot platform. This is a small footprint platform that similar to that of a tank. For more details on this platform we suggest visiting the Open Source Robotics Website.

Angle View


Front View


Bottom View




Check out the complete photo gallery!

Let's get started!

Overview

From start to finish we were impressed with this little unit. The construction is superb. We thought we would be building the unit - but it turns out it comes pre-built and ready for any experiment you need to get started. Its an easy platform to work with and is scalable - at least in terms of what you can do with it.

Our first impression was that it would a perfect fit for experiments with swarm robotics. Soon after we thought - wow - this thing with a few components on it could be used for security purposes by law enforcement and/or military. It's small enough that it could fit into just about any tight spot. Furthermore, its rugged enough to take it offroad through dirt and sand. If you take it a step further by waterproofing the unit or at least making it water resistent it could easily go into main lines / pipes.

This is also a great platform for those of you who aren't targeting on the hardware portion. Meaning you want to concentrate more on the software. Take into consideration that you will need to know something about your components in order to configure the hardware and put what you want on the unit. But aside from that - you can start coding right away with this little bad boy!

Yet another purpose for this kit would be for competitions. Its rugged and strong enough to handle just about any ant/light class robot competition. Attach a weapon of some sort like a spinner or flipper and you are good to go! You may need to cover up the electronics a bit - or if you get creative enough and find a way to put it all inside the unit - even better!

Our hats go off to Open Source Robotics for this little creation!

Features

• 4x DC Motors
• 4x Wheels
• 2x Rubber One Piece Tank Treads
• 2 Cell Lipo Battery
• AC Charger
• Plastic Lid ready for Arduino Mounting
• On/Off/Charge Switch
• Built in Charge Plug

Components

Highlights

Whats inside this thing?

Inside View


DC Motors / Gear Box


On/Off/Charge Switch and Charge Plug

Support

We were a little thrown back at first when we saw limited support on their website. At least compared to other vendors. However, their kit is easy and straight forward. Furthermore, it comes pre-assembled. One really doesn't require that much support for a robot kit like this.

They do however have support contacts on their home page and some reference material for their robot platforms. So don't rule them out just yet. We have dealt with their support in the past and have found them to have all the knowledge required to answer our questions. Furthermore, they always responded promptly with whatever inquiry we came up with.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this is a great all around robot platform. We easily see this used for many things. It is one of the first kits we have seen that we can easily say can apply to the following:

• Robot Competitions
• Research
• Military
• Local Law Enforcement
• Educational Institutions of all levels

These are just a few of the things we can think of. We plan on doing some custom robotic projects with this unit to show off all of its features.

We recommend this kit to people who are familiar with some electronics - particularly the Arduino line of components. Furthermore, if you are more into the software side you will also like this platform. Its quick and easy and ready to get the job done.

We still can't get over the fact how rugged and tough this little platform is. Be on the lookout for these guys in swarm robotics research.

• Open Source Robotics Website
• DIYbin.com