Skitter Classroom Robot

This two-wheel tabletop robot was developed in collaboration with Purdue University.

The Skitter Robot is intended for use as a programming test platform for university and high school classrooms. Additionally, it can be used for custom tabletop robotics projects. Skitter can handle several sensor inputs and has robust drive motors with encoder feedback. The frame is a strong sheet metal construction with a hard-anodized finish. This robot can be used on classroom tabletops and floors and is small enough to be transported in a backpack.

Skitter Arduino Classroom Robot: This version was designed with Purdue University for use in their ME375 class. It utilizes the Arduino Mega to teach control systems in the classroom.

Purdue Students: This unit is sold as a disassembled kit with tools. Purdue students looking to purchase this robot for classes can get a discounted price with the use of a coupon code provided by your instructor.

Features and Specifications

• Hard-Anodized Sheet Metal Frame
  • 0.09 in. Thick Aluminum
• Robust Drive Motors
  • 12v DC gearmotors with hall effect encoders
  • Output Free Speed: 245 rpm
  • Rated torque: 5.7 oz-in (410 g-cm)
  • Max current draw: 0.95 amps
  • Max power output: 2.5 Watts at 45% efficiency
• Motor Controller Output
  • x2 Channel
  • 12v DC
  • 3.6 Amp Peak Current
• Multiple Servo Outputs
  • x3 Additional servos can be added
• Lithium-ion Battery
  • 12v, 3000mAh
• Multiple Sensor Inputs
  • Distance (x1)
  • Line Following Sensor (x1)
  • Drive Encoders (x2), Hall Effect, with 3 counts/rev on the motor, 735 counts/rev on the output shaft
• Overall size
  • 7.05 in. Long (179mm)
  • 6.54 in. Wide (166mm)
  • ~4 in. Tall (102mm)
• Ground Clearance
  • 3/8 in. (9.4mm)
• Weight
  • Under 2 Pounds
• Performance
  • Speed: 21 inches/sec
  • Acceleration: 60 inches/sec^2
  • Rotation rate: 410 degrees/sec
  • Angular acceleration rate: 2,000 degrees/sec^2