Sensor Expansion Board

We are currently working on a Sensor Expansion Board for the mCore control module used on the MakeBlock mBot. To safely navigate in varied environments, the mBot needs a lot more sensors and there just aren’t enough connections available on the mCore board.

The Sensor Expansion Board will mount on top of the mCore module and connect via one of the RJ25 connectors on the mCore. The Expansion Board will be able to connect the mCore module with 8 to 12 sensors. This will allow for 4 utlrasonic sensors, and 4 IR sensors. The remaining connectors on the mCore board can be connected to other modules such as a motion sensor or compass.

In addition, multiple Sensor Expansion Boards may be used to increase the connectivity even more. A robot can’t have too many sensors!

uBot Adapter Bracket

The second product in the works is a 3D printed bracket which will allow a Raspberry Pi to be mounted on the mBot. The bracket will also have mounting points for ultrasonic and IR sensors on all sides of the robot. The bracket can be used simply to mount the extra sensors without adding the Raspberry Pi.

The Raspberry Pi and extra sensors will transform the mBot into a uBot — an ultraBot! The extra processing power is required to allow the robot to learn and develop a personality.