Markerbot IR Reader Robot

thingiverse

Markerbot is an affordable robot aimed at inspiring young kids to learn programming. It features an IR reader that enables children to program the robot by simply coloring in the appropriate arrows on a paper strip. The strip is read by four IR sensors, which pick up tick marks and translate them into movement commands for the robot. These commands are executed once the "Go!" button is pressed. Markerbot was created as part of a robotics class; you can view a video of it in action along with other students' designs on this site: https://sites.google.com/site/me842010/home/markerbot. To assemble the robot, print the circular reader housing (if possible), attach the QTR-1A sensors using M3 nuts and bolts, use 31mm diameter lego wheels for the feeding-roller mechanism, and create a cardboard body for affordability and speed. Operation involves printing and cutting out a paper strip, coloring in desired movement commands, inserting it into the circular reader, and pressing the "Go!" button to execute the programmed movements.