Remote Robots: Make a robot that anyone can program from anywhere

Remote Robots: Make a robot that anyone can program from anywhere

Remote Robots is a new project from BirdBrain Technologies! We’ve set up several Hummingbird Kit robots that you can view and program in real time. To try one out yourself, visit www.birdbraintechnologies.com/remote-robots/.

We've made a detailed tutorial on how to make these robots yourself. All you need is a Hummingbird kit, an internet connection, and a webcam. You build the robot and then set up two NetsBlox projects - one to run the robot, and the other to send as a link to people whom you want to have program the robot. NetsBlox is a kid-friendly, blocks-based programming environment based on Snap! & Scratch with some added networking capabilities.

Remote robots can be used in two ways: 1. As a way to connect people during a live online class, allowing someone to program a robot at someone else's home, or 2. By using 24/7 livestream cameras to allow anyone to program the robot at any time. They're a way to provide access and connection in this moment.

Hope you enjoy playing with our robots and making your own remote robot!

What are the problems you aim to help solve with this project?:
Hummingbird kits are frequently used in Makerspaces, schools, libraries, and museums - and all of these are currently closed. We wanted to provide a way for kids to program something in the real world during lockdown even if they didn't have a robotics or electronics kit at home. We also wanted to empower teachers running virtual classes, activities, and camps to build a real robot that their students could then program.

Project Website