Kilobot

Introduction Specifications Software Manuals / Downloads Distributors

Specifications

Elements Technical Information

Processor

ATmega 328 (8bit @ 8MHz)

Memory

32 KB Flash used for both user program and bootloader, 1KB EEPROM for storing calibration values and other non-volatile data and 2KB SRAM

Battery

Rechargeable Li-Ion 3.7V, for a 3 months autonomy in sleep mode.
Each Kilobot has a built-in charger, which charges the onboard battery when +6 volts is
applied to any of the legs, and GND is applied to the charging tab.

Charging

Kilobot charger (optional)

Communication

Kilobots can communicate with neighbors up to 7 cm away by reflecting infrared (IR)
light off the ground surface.

Sensing

When receiving a message, distance to the transmitting Kilobot can be determined
using received signal strength.
The brightness of the ambient light shining on a Kilobot can be detected.

Movement

Each Kilobot has 2 vibration motors, which are independently controllable, allowing for
differential drive of the robot.
Each motor can be set to 255 different power levels.

Light

Each Kilobot has a red/green/blue (RGB) LED pointed upward, and each color has 3
levels of brightness control.

Dimensions

The diameter is 33 mm and the height is 34mm (including the legs)

Software

The Kilobot Controller software is available for
controlling the controller board, sending program files to the
robots and controlling them.

Programming

For programming, the open source development software WinAVR combinated with AvrStudio from Amtel gives a C programming enviromnent. An API with basic functions such as motor speed, led control, distance measurement,… is available and some examples are provided.

Debug

A serial output header is available on each robot for debugging via computer terminal.

Simulator V-REP, realistic 3D Simulator and robot programming (included for education), with Kilobot model.