Microbit Talking Robot
Introduction: Microbit Talking Robot
As we know, Tinkercad introduces a new feature in the Tinkercad circuit, which is Microbit. We can make a virtual prototype in making things related to Microbit, and even can do a simulation. We can save lots of money to build an experiment without having to damage our electronic components. Moreover, we can add some codes to bring the experiment to work.
Unfortunately, after reading Tinkercad's blog, this launch has a drawback. When exporting the code, Tinkercad only transfers it into JavaScript language. You need to change the code by using a third-party like Microsoft Makecode, for it requires a hex file to work directly in Microbit.
Initially, I made a simulation in Tinkercad to build and explore this experiment. Turnout, my simulation is not like I expected. My next step is I prepared the code using Microsoft Makecode, for I will use continuous servos instead of micro servos, which Tinkercad only provided micro servos in the circuit.
I decided to make a robot using Microbit as its brain. To make the robot more pleasant and challenging, I added some motions using servo motors, LEDs, images, and talking features.
For those who do not work yet with Microbit, please read the overview guide of Microbit in this link.
For downloading the enclosure, click Cults3D.
I also attached the Microbit HEX Files.
Supplies
Materials you will need:
Tinkercad
Microbit
Microsoft Makecode and Python Editor
3D printer
PLA filament (Metal, blue, yellow, red, wood, and green)
Speaker
Alligator clip
Electrical wires
Jumper wires
Electrical tape
Hot glue
Makita Drill
Dremel rotary tool
Cutting Pliers
Solder iron
Solder
2 LEDs
4 Batteries of AA + holder
2 Batteries of AAA + holder
Step 1: Make Simulation in Tinkercad
Before we make a prototype, it is crucial to make a simulation in Tinkercad. By doing this simulation, we can play around with the electronic circuit, so we become aware and understand whether we make a mistake in our circuit or not. As I mentioned previously, Tinkercad only has micro servos in its library, while I would like to use continuous servos (because I have enough continuous servos in my inventory instead of micro servos). 134
How to solve this problem? Well, I had to use another alternative, which is making the block code in another third party, such as Microsoft Makecode.
At least, Tinkercad helps a lot in my simulation. Here I screenshot my electronic circuit. Actually, Microbit requires a maximum of 3V (two batteries of AAA) as its power source. But to operate two servos, it needs an additional four batteries of AA (6V). Otherwise, the servos would not propel.
Step 2: The Servos
In this project, I used two continuous servos to rotate the hands.
The servo has three lines, which are signal lines (orange-1), electric power line positive (red-2), and negative/ground line (black-3).
* Signal lines, which are represented as blue and green wires in the circuit diagram above, in servos connected to pin 1 and 2 in Microbit, respectively.
* The positive line in both servos should connect to the positive pole of the battery, and so the negative line (ground) should connect to the negative pole of the battery.
* Both servos connect to the ground (GND) in Microbit, and only one servo connects to the negative pole of the battery as well.
Step 3: The LEDs
I used two LEDs for my robot, which I used white LEDs. These LEDs are utilized for the eyes of the robot. Therefore, I connect the positive legs of the first LED to pin 1 in Microbit and the second LED to pin 2 in Microbit. The first LED is supposed to be for the left eye and the second one is for the right eye. Both negative legs of the LEDs are connected to the ground (GND) in Microbit.
Step 4: The Speaker
Connect the speaker to the Microbit as follows:
· Positive wire connects to Pin 0 in Microbit
· Negative wire connects to Pin GND in Microbit
Step 5: The Code
I made the block code in Microsoft Makecode. The code should be like in the image. Also, I shared my code. Here is the link.
In this code, if we press button A, it will show some images first and then, turn on the LED for the left eye, and rotate the left hand. 854