Level 4 Robotics – AuRoVi

A multi-purpose modular STEM kit to learn about Autonomous Robots and its various functions using visual, block-based programming.

Robotics is always considered as a machine which works on its own and takes autonomous decisions without human control. Level 4 starts the process of programming to make intelligent robots.

Level 4 kit has an important new component called Uniko Ekam, a versatile microcontroller programming board compatible with Arduino platform. Uniko Ekam is the first board in the Uniko series of programming platforms. Its distinctive features include on board components such as switches, LEDs, LDR, TSOP IR receiver, Microphone and breakout pins; which makes developing applications easy.

In some ways, programming is like painting. You start with a blank canvas and certain basic raw materials. You use a combination of science, art, and craft to determine what to do with them.
– Andrew Hunt

Overview

Experiments : 50+
Observations & Challenges : 100+
Projects: 50+
Designs & Applications : 20+

Programming type: Block based visual programming language similar to “Scratch” on mBlock
Microcontroller: ATmega328
Board name: Uniko Ekam

Kit

All the on-board electronic components can be programmed easily without making any wire connections to them, whereas additional components such as IR sensors, Servo motor, etc. can be connected easily with wires through the break-out pins and the power rails. DC motors can be interfaced using L293D driver board (from Level 3) as a shield.

The programming software is based on universally used “Scratch” programming, which has block-based visual programming method that makes programming easy for any beginner, kids or adults. Instead of writing complex codes, kids will develop analytical flowchart-type codes focusing more on logical reasoning and algorithms. Codes are downloaded through USB using a device called “Progo”.

The kit has a unique construction & assembly, which allows the user to create geometrical shapes of various animals. Example, Dog design can be used with Object follower functional design.

Learning

The most important function of a Robot has to not crash with anything, which is called as “Obstacle avoider” in simple technical language. Similar such primary functions are Line follower (to follow a particular colored line, mostly black), Edge avoider (to not fall from an edge), Wall follower (to follow a particular wall without crashing) and Object follower (to follow an object).

Beyond the primary functions, we can develop various intelligent applications such as sumo robot, parking management system, toll gates, smart lights, wireless device control system, alarms, counters, indicators etc. using Uniko Ekam board and programming software.