Please Note:
BotBot development is on hold given iRobot's announcement of the ConnectR - a very similar robot.
If there's enough interest in this project, work will resume, perhaps as a fully open-source effort.
Send us a note if you are interested in seeing BotBot revived.
BotBot
Remote-Controlled Surveillance Robot
Price: TBA
Drive your robot from the web and see what your robot sees!
How it works: BotBot is an Internet-ready device that fits into the cargo bay of an iRobot® Create™ robot (sold by the iRobot Corporation).
BotBot arrives assembled and fully tested. Just drop BotBot into your Create™ robot, press the "On" button and let your telerobotic experience begin!
Connecting to BotBot from your web browser is like visiting any other website. Once connected, you can see what the robot sees through a live video stream. Driving BotBot to a new location is acheived with a few mouse clicks. The web cam on BotBot can also look side-to-side and up/down up using the same web-based controls. Sensors will automatically stop BotBot and alert you should you drive it into an obstacle. Real-time telemetry showing battery power and sensor data is summarized on the web page as well.
Features: BotBot is designed to be expandable, reliable and field serviceable. The powerful Debian GNU/Linux operating system is installed on BotBot's rugged ARM9-based computer, allowing for a wide assortment of hardware and software add-ons and experimentation.
Extended run times are possible by utilizing the capabilities of the iRobot® Create™ base. When battery levels drop, you or BotBot can initiate a docking sequence and the robot will autonomously seek and connect with a charging station to continue its mission. BotBot remains powered during its charging cycle and you can continue to view the video stream during this time. Multiple docking stations can be placed throughout one's home or office to extend BotBot's range.
Development: Many enhancements to BotBot are already in the works, including:
- ssh tunneling and relay services for users without static IP addresses
- Audio streaming
- Climate sensors
- RFID reader
- Second Life and iPhone support
BotBot comes with a 90 day warranty and unlimited software upgrades.
Open Source Commitment: Earth Robot supports the Open Source movement. We are working to make the BotBot hardware and software fully open. More details about this initiative will be posted soon.
Please note: iRobot® and Create™ are trademarks of iRobot Corporation. Earth Robot is not affiliated with iRobot Corp.