e.DO: People make Robotics

Comau, a leading worldwide manufacturer of industrial robots and automation solutions, is launching a unique, “build-it-yourself” 6-axis articulated robot project based on a 100% open-source hardware and software platform that allows users to understand how robotics work from the inside-out and the outside-in. The modular and compact IoT-enabled e.DO robot – designed and developed by Comau with the technical collaboration of Altran Italian team – is simple enough for a teenager to understand, and powerful enough to satisfy a certified engineer. 
 
Within the open and modular e.DO ecosystem, advanced robotics can mingle with people of all ages and interests. As an open-source project, the hardware and software structure designed to encourage application sharing and expansion via the growing e.DO community, or program new coding directly into the robot itself. By sharing applications and ideas, pioneers, tech enthusiasts, developers and others will continue to transform and expand e.DO’s experience base. 


 
Just like building blocks, the e.DO construction kit comes with a range of modular pieces including articulated joints, composite plastic casings, bi-directional motors and a four-prong gripper – everything needed to build and program a 6- or multi-axis articulated robot. Once configured, e.DO can handle a wide range of tasks – from simple pick and place movements and even acting as a guided vehicle. 
 
For Comau, the e.Do project represents a concrete example of the company’s innovation strategy which integrates the rich experience and competence base of a global industry leader with the mentality and approach of a start-up venture. e.DO also provides a glimpse of how the industry could move toward the industrialization of professional robots at a lower cost point than can be achieved today. 
 
The multi-faceted e.DO robot can be used across multiple sectors and for multiple uses. It can be used in schools to help students with their coursework, it can be used at home to execute simple chores, and can be used to simulate and test a variety of business applications. With a resilient composite plastic structure, Made-in-Italy design and open architecture, e.DO has the power and flexibility to run virtually any application that falls within its speed and payload parameters. 
 
Each of e.DO’s joints has an autonomous mechanical and electronic control that can be configured as needed by the operator, allowing them to interface and communicate in a modular and independent manner. e.DO is also fully compatible with third-party applications and its open development environment will enable a variety of interacting devices. To create a guided vehicle, for example, simply add wheels to the articulated joints and connect them directly to the robot platform. To use e.DO in the office or at home, simply command the robot to execute a series of desired tasks via the intuitive programming and control interface. Finally, advanced users can directly enhance the embedded control system, giving e.DO the intelligence and flexibility to perform advanced sequences or automate real-world processes. 

 
Key features:

  • Multi-faceted project directed at business, educational and consumer markets
  • 6-axis articulated robot kit featuring an open-source hardware and software architecture
  • Modular, flexible structure supports personalized configuration
  • User-friendly, highly-intuitive programming and control interface
  • Easily controlled from a tablet, laptop or PC
  • Embedded Raspberry Pi control system
  • Educational package and application support 
  • Backed by community-led expansion
  • Suitable for all experience and interest levels
  • IoT compliant (multisensor board distributed on every joint)  
 
 
Source: Comau