Summary of MECCANO MAX GETS HACKED
This article details [MrDreamBot]'s project to hack the Meccano Max robot, driven by a desire for full control over its platform. The creator bypassed the lack of an API by developing an Arduino library and integrating a Hicat Livera devboard. This modification enables browser-based control, live video streaming via WiFi, and customizable facial expressions on the robot.
Parts used in the Meccano Max Hack:
- Meccano Max robot
- Arduino library
- Hicat Livera devboard
There are plenty of “smart” toys out in the marketplace, some with more features than others. Nevertheless, most makers desire complete control over a platform, something that’s often lacking in any commercial offering. It was just this desire that motivated [MrDreamBot] to start hacking the Meccano Max.
Meccano Max is a small-statured companion robot, at about 30 centimeters high. Not content with the lack of an API, [MrDreamBot] decided to first experiment with creating an Arduino library to run Max’s hardware. With this completed, work then began on integrating a Hicat Livera devboard into the hardware. This is an embedded Linux system with Arduino compatibility, as well as the ability to stream video and connect over WiFi. Thus far, it’s possible to control Max through a browser, while viewing a live video feed from the ‘bot. It’s also possible to customize the expressions displayed on Max’s face.
Oftentimes, it pays to replace stock hardware rather than try and work with the limitations of the original setup, and this project is no exception. With that said, we’re still hoping someone out there will find a way to get Jibo back online. Look after your robot friends! Video after the break.
Source: MECCANO MAX GETS HACKED
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Why did [MrDreamBot] start hacking the Meccano Max?
The creator was motivated by a desire for complete control over the platform, which is often lacking in commercial offerings. -
What specific limitation of the original Meccano Max did the hacker address first?
The project addressed the lack of an API by experimenting with creating an Arduino library to run the hardware. -
What component was integrated into the Meccano Max hardware?
A Hicat Livera devboard was integrated into the hardware. -
What capabilities does the Hicat Livera devboard provide?
It provides embedded Linux system functionality, Arduino compatibility, video streaming, and WiFi connectivity. -
How can users control the modified robot after the hack?
Users can control Max through a web browser. -
What visual feature on the robot can be customized?
The expressions displayed on Max's face can be customized.
