RoBeDo's latest 'just-add-netbook' robot

RoBe:Do Robotics has rolled its latest software-ready autonomous robot off the production line at its Colorado home base. Like its first two robotic offerings, RoBe:Do’s third robot, aptly named “Three”, comes fully assembled and ready and waiting for you to add the netbook of your choice to act as the robot’s brain.

Three is RoBe:Do’s greenest robot to date thanks to a simplified design that results in less aluminum, electronics and rechargeable batteries. A three-sensor digital infrared navigation array option also minimizes required electronics, while detecting objects within 10-inches.

The netbook “brain” sits atop a sturdy aluminum mount and connects to the robot via USB. If bigger brains are your thing then you might want to opt for the optional larger robot chassis, which can accommodate 6+ pound laptops. The chassis sits atop two 6.7” tires powered by 2 x 120 RPM gearhead motors, with a third, smaller multi-directional rear wheel adding support.

All of RoBe:Do’s robots can be controlled with a Linux, Mac or Windows PC using various software languages and tools such as C, C++, C#, Flash AS3, Java, .NET, Python, VBScript and Visual Basic to name a few. Three comes with attachment mechanisms to facilitate the addition of USB plug-and-play sensors, I/O controllers, actuators or cases to expand the capabilities of the robot.

This means making and delivering popcorn is just the tip of the iceberg for Three. If nothing else it could act as your personal netbook caddy.

RoBe:Do’s Three stands 6.5-inches tall, measures 12-inches long and 12-inches wide and tips the scales at 4 pounds. It is custom built and is available now from the regular price of USD$439.