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We're now living in an AI-powered world and technology is getting to par with it. The latest development is Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its revolution in the world of robotics.
AI has enabled robots to learn, adapt, and interact with their environment, making it a portable source of education. This integration has fostered robots to perform complex tasks, make decisions, and improve their performance over time.
To know more about Robotic Kits and their Benefits in AI learning, keep on reading. We will unfold in this article the best robotics kits for learning AI in 2024, their uses, and benefits.
Robotic Kits are pre-packaged collections of hardware and software components designed to help users build, program, and learn about robotics.
These kits usually include Hardware & Software components.
Hardware Components have:
Microcontrollers (e.g., Arduino, RaspberryPi)
Sensors (e.g., ultrasonic, infrared, GPS)
Actuators (e.g., motors, servos)
Power supplies
Chassis and structural components
Whereas Software Components include:
Programming languages (e.g., C++, Python, Java)
Integrated Development Environments (IDEs)
APIs and libraries
Simulators and emulators
There are four types of kits currently available in the market. These are: Beginners kits, Intermediate kits, Advanced kits and Special kits.
Now, Let's Take a Look at Top Robotics Kits for Learning AI in 2024
Here are seven top robotics kits for learning AI:
NVIDIA JetBot: The JetBot kit is a powerful AI-enabled kit for advanced learners. Priced at $249, the NVIDIA kit is a perfect kit for starting.
Features: object detection, tracking, and navigation.
Best for: Advanced learners, and AI enthusiasts.
Makeblock mBot: Versatile Arduino-based Makeblock mBot kit ideal for both beginners and experienced users. This kit is priced at $149.
Features: Line following, obstacle avoidance, and gesture recognition.
Best for: Beginners and hobbyists.
DJI RoboMaster: The DJI RoboMaster is a comprehensive kit focused on providing AI-powered robotics and computer vision. The kit is currently available for $499.
Features: Object recognition, tracking, and motion planning.
Best for: Educators and researchers.
Robot Operating System (ROS): This is a free and open-source software framework. Probably, the only Robotic Kit that is free to use, currently.
Features: AI-powered navigation, manipulation, and perception.
Best for: Advanced learners, and researchers.
Sphero Mini: The Sphero Mini is a compact app-controlled robot for beginners priced at $49. This is the cheapest and easiest robot to apply your learnings.
Features: Gesture recognition, obstacle avoidance.
Best for: Beginners and students.
Kano Robot: The Kano Robot kit is a build-it-yourself kit used for teaching AI and programming fundamentals. This kit is priced at $149.
Features: Facial recognition, emotion detection.
Best for: Beginners and families.
Lego Mindstorms EV3: Lego Mindstorms EV3 is the most popular kit. It requires you to combine LEGO bricks with AI-powered programming. This is interesting and the creative kit is priced at $349.
Features: Object recognition, navigation, and control.
Best for: Beginners and hobbyists.
Robotics kits cater to various needs:
Education: Robotic kits can now teach AI, robotics, and programming concepts in classrooms.
Research: Robotic kits can help you develop quality research and test AI-powered robotics applications.
Hobby: If you just have an affinity towards robots, robotic kits are a great option. But if you have the curiosity to build and program AI-enabled robots for fun, robotic kits will help motivate your interest.
Prototyping: Robotic kits will allow you to rapidly prototype and test AI-powered robotics ideas.
Autonomy: Self-navigating and decision-making abilities.
Sensing and perception: Environmental awareness through sensors.
Motion and manipulation: Movement and interaction with objects
Communication: Wireless communication protocols (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth).
AI and machine learning: Integration with AI frameworks and libraries.
Hands-on learning: Practical experience with robotics and programming.
Develop problem-solving skills: Encourages critical thinking and analytical skills.
Fosters creativity: Encourages innovative thinking and experimentation.
Prepares for careers: Develops skills relevant to robotics and AI industries.
Robotics kits offer an engaging and effective way to learn AI concepts. By exploring these top kits, individuals can develop valuable skills, foster creativity, and prepare for exciting careers in AI and robotics.
