Two pioneering engineering graduates from The University of Manchester have launched a DIY walking robot which anyone can build with 3D printing technology.
Jack Scott-Reeve and Josh Elijah, who graduated with master’s degrees in engineering from the University’s School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, have developed QuadBot, a 3D printable walking robotics platform. Their aim is to help as many people as possible to learn about robotics.
The pioneering learning tool - which is intended to be used in project groups and workshops - helps users with little or no prior experience the chance to understand electronics, coding, 3D design and printing, and maths for robotics.
“Our dream is to have everyone making robots, and we really want to bring QuadBot into schools to inspire the next generation of makers,” said Jack.
“There is so much potential for users. QuadBot can walk, dance, light up – and, with sensors, he can follow you around while avoiding any obstacles. He can even play songs.”
The animal-inspired QuadBot comes as a kit which features a ‘Quadboard’, motors and other non-printable components while the rest of the bespoke machine can be made using domestic 3D printing technology.
Jack and Josh, who started at The University of Manchester in 2010, founded their own Robotics Society in 2013 after recognising that hands-on making was just as important as the theory.
“With the support of the University, our society was very successful and we continued the initiative until we graduated. After graduation we then ran many workshops teaching engineering and robotics to the maker communities using Fab Labs around London,” added Josh.
“We decided to focus our career solely on engineering education, so we founded EngiMake with one goal - opening up robotics to every ‘maker’. We were frustrated with the quality of engineering education in the UK and the lack of expandable, exciting and low-cost robotic kits available, so we decided to create the QuadBot.
“We have set out to break down the barriers to learning robotics by engaging with people, communicating knowledge effectively, leveraging the strength of open-source, and tearing down costs.”
Quadbot has been launched on Kickstarter, a global community which supports creative projects through crowdsourcing. For more information, visit https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/engimake/407036935?token=b7d08c2c.