Summary of Hackabot Nano: Compact Plug and Play Arduino Robot
Hackabot Nano is a compact, plug-and-play Arduino robot designed to simplify robotics with minimal wiring. It features an Arduino Nano-compatible controller, multiple connectivity options (RF, WiFi, Bluetooth), and supports up to four motors. The platform also enables IoT projects like smart sensors or weather stations, with sample programs included for quick setup.
Parts used in the Hackabot Nano:
- Arduino Nano compatible Controller
- Fabric Shield main PCB
- Radio Frequency (2.4GHz) module
- WiFi module
- Bluetooth module
- Raspberry Pi interface
- GPS sensor
- Gyroscope + Accelerometer
- Ultrasonic Distance Sensor
- Motor driver (supports 4 DC or servo motors)
- DC Motors (high speed or high torque versions)
- Dual on-board voltage regulators
- Audio jack
- Screw terminals for PWM signals
- I2C headers
- Header pins for analog inputs
What? Why? Hackabot Nano is a very compact many-in-one plug-and-play Arduino Robot. The goal is to help everyone build a feature-rich robot without all the messy wiring. You simply connect the motors, plug in the sensors and controller and you may start programming. We even provide sample programs to help you get started. In addition, a free Android app will be developed once we hit our stretch goal of $10000. With the app, even kids can navigate the robot with a smart phone or tablet. Not into robotics?
You can use this as a platform to build your Arduino based IoT (Internet of Things) devices as well. WiFi connected garage door sensor? Bluetooth music player? Hacked RC car? Internet connected fish tank? IoT Sprinkler controller? Solar powered weather station? Arduino Walkie Talkie?
A little bit of history
If you want to know, please refer to the bottom of this page.
- Very compact: about 12cm x 12cm x 5.5cm (4.7in x 4.7in x 2.2 in)
- Controller: Arduino Nano compatible. Program with standard IDE.
- Connectivity: Radio Frequency (2.4GHz), WiFi, Bluetooth, Raspberry Pi
- Robot Chassis: Fabric Shield (the main PCB) is designed to mount up to 4 motors directly
- Sensors: GPS, Gyroscope + Accelerometer, Ultrasonic Distance Sensor.
- Motor driver: capable of driving up to 4 DC or servo motors.
- DC Motors: two versions (A) high speed (B) high torque
- Power: input voltage: 5-12V; dual on-board voltage regulators to deliver 5V and 3.3V.
- Expansion: Audio jack; Screw terminals to connect 4 PWM (pulse width modulation) signals and power source; header pins to analog inputs (like sharp IR sensors)
- I2C headers: to connect other I2C devices (like magnetometer)
It is the main PCB that connects everything in the kit. There are many holes on the edges for you to mount the motors and sensors. You may also mount it to other chassis using standard screws and standoffs.
Note: Final design may vary from this picture slightly. For example, color, component placement, pinout and etc. may change.
Speedy Hackabot Nano: This is a 2-wheel-drive version of the robot. The motors run up to 150rpm. Flat and smooth surface is ideal for this robot. For example, you may turn it into a maze robot or even line following robot if you add proper sensors.
Fully Loaded Hackabot Nano: This has all the features listed in the “Key Features” section. You may choose either high speed or high torque motors. With the latter, the robot will be able to travel uneven surfaces. However, it will not run as fast.
You may turn it into many different robots. For example, you may control it over the internet. You may ask it to go to a specific location based on GPS readings. With Radio Frequency (RF) module, each robot is able to communicate up to 5 other robots. You may create a robot team to solve problems as a group. Isn’t it fun?
For more detail: Hackabot Nano: Compact Plug and Play Arduino Robot
- What is the primary goal of Hackabot Nano?
To help everyone build a feature-rich robot without messy wiring through a plug-and-play design. - Can kids navigate the robot using a mobile device?
Yes, a free Android app will allow navigation via smartphone or tablet once the stretch goal is met. - What types of IoT devices can be built with this platform?
Users can create WiFi garage door sensors, Bluetooth music players, hacked RC cars, connected fish tanks, sprinkler controllers, weather stations, or walkie talkies. - How many motors can the Fabric Shield mount directly?
The shield is designed to mount up to 4 motors directly. - What are the two motor versions available for the robot?
The two versions are high speed and high torque DC motors. - Can multiple robots communicate with each other?
Yes, with the RF module, each robot can communicate with up to 5 other robots. - What input voltage range does the power system support?
The input voltage range is 5-12V. - Does the kit include sample programs?
Yes, sample programs are provided to help users get started with programming.
