MAKER MOVEMENT PROJECTS

Multiplo Open Source Robots Arrive

Written By: Bill Griggs - Apr• 21•13

Open Source Robot

Multiplo Open Source Robot

Multiplo Open Source Robots Arrive

When I heard that Multiplo planned to release an open source robots kit I was very excited by the possibilities. I was excited because for once, anyone with an interest in robotics would have access to the tools they need to get involved. Most existing robotics kits use proprietary parts and the user can’t add new parts they designed. With open access to all the design files, builders can custom-make their own components or modify an existing design to fit their needs.

Another reason I was excited was because the Multiplo robots use Minibloq Graphical programming Environment for Arduino. Minibloq allows the user to use the Duinobot, Arduino compatible Brain without knowing how to write code. (more…)

Duinobot V1.2 Childproof Arduino Brain

Written By: Bill Griggs - Feb• 27•13

Duinobot V1.2 Childproof Arduino Brain

Duinobot V1.2

Duinobot V1.2

The Duinobot V1.2 is a childproof Arduino Brain made by Multiplo.org. The Duinobot is 100% Arduino compatible, 100% open source, 100% Fab Lab compatible and is designed specifically to help kids learn to build Robots. The Duinobot differs from most arduino boards because it has been ruggedized. The Duinobot V1.2 is designed to take the inevitable tumbles that most robot must endure.

What I like the most about the Duinobot is the case. Since this controller is designed to be used with children it’s wrapped inside a plexiglass case to protect it from spills, drops and rough handling. (more…)

Thank You.

Written By: Bill Griggs - Dec• 31•12

As 2012 comes to a close I just wanted to take a moment to say Thank You to everyone who has taken the time to read my blog. It is truly gratifying to know that some one, some where took the time to read my ramblings.

I blog about Makers and Making because it is something I love. I hope I have been able to bring some laughter, wonder or helpful information to you that you might not have seen elsewhere. I promise to keep writing as long as you keep reading.

If I have personally interacted with you in some way, shared a comment, or responded to your post, I thank you because I am sure I learned something from the experience.

 

Bill

 

Writing Tools and Tips

Written By: Bill Griggs - Dec• 19•12

Writing Tools And Tips

Scrivener

For the last few months I haven’t written as many blog posts as I would like because I’ve been busy writing a book instead. I’ve never written a book before so there was a whole lot of things I needed to learn. Because writing a book is a new experience for me, I figured I would share with you  some of the writing tools and tips I learned while they are still fresh in my mind. If you ever considered writing a book yourself, then perhaps these tools will be helpful. It is much easier to learn from someone else’s example then it is to discover these things for yourself the hard way.

Writing a book is sort of like writing a massive series of blog posts. With a blog post I can write about a variety of subjects if I want to, but with a book I have to stick to the just one thing. (more…)

Inexpensive 3D Printers in your home

Written By: Bill Griggs - Nov• 22•12

hands

 

Until recently 3D printing has been terribly expensive and only available to commercial design and manufacturing firms. A typical commercial 3D printer started at around $20,000. However, thanks to the Open Source community and the power of the World Wide Web, you can have Inexpensive 3D printers in your home for around $1000.

extruder

Rapid changes in Extruder design is driving better print quality.

NEW EXTRUDERS

It is difficult to keep up with the ever-changing advances in this new technology. Advances (more…)