Hello all! Spring is that special time of year that brings many things…warmer weather, April showers (and hopefully May flowers), and also the first of the annual new product releases from fischertechnik. This year, the latest educational release is the all new “ROBO TX Automation Robots” set –item #511933.

For many years fischertechnik has been at the forefront of robotics–in fact, fischertechnik was the FIRST construction set manufacturer to incorporate robotics and programming with its sets…way back with the pre-Macintosh Apple computers! Not only was fischertechnik the first, they also remain among the best by focusing on TRUE robotics. While other construction-kit manufacturers offer ‘radio controlled-joystick operated’ models, fischertechnik concentrates on creating fully programmed robots which function autonomously. fischertechnik robots act and react based on the collection of sensors and actuators incorporated into each specific model as well as the information that has been entered into their program, thus most closely mimicking the type of robots used in real-world applications.

The fischertechnik ROBO TX Automation Robots set acts as both a replacement and an upgrade to the recently retired “Industrial Robots II” kit.  As you would guess from the name, this set addresses the construction and programming of the type of robots commonly found in industrial settings, such as automobile  manufacturing, on a production line or in an automated warehouse. It includes instructions for building four different models to perform tasks such as gripping, moving, sorting and stacking. Not only are the models you build more sophisticated that those found in the old ‘Industrial Robots II’ set, they also make use of the increased power and functionality of the ROBO TX Controller (sold separately) as well as the new fischertechnik Encoder Motors . In addition, the kit now includes sturdy aluminum channels for smoother operation and increased stability.

This set is a great way to explore industrial robotics with your class, and like all fischertechnik products, you can easily incorporate parts from other sets, and even order additional parts, sensors and motors for building even more sophisticated and elaborate robotic models.

The kit contains 470 components, including 2 Encoder Motors, 2 XS Motors, 6 sensors, and a full color assembly booklet. It also includes a disc with the upgrade to the latest version of ROBO Pro software as well as a full color teaching and activity guide PDF providing background information, projects and programming tips.

NOTE: ROBO TX Controller, the full version of ROBO Pro software, and either a fischertechnik Accu Set or Energy Set are also required for building all models—each sold separately.

On a side note—don’t forget to sign your students up for the fischertechnik Design and Engineering Challenge 2011! As we announced last month, this year’s challenge is to build “America’s Best Marble Sorter”. With a great trophy up for grabs, as well as $1000.00 in fischertechnik spare parts, you don’t want to miss out! Hurry…contest ends June 10^th, 2011! For complete details, please visit: http://www.fischertechnik.biz/ft/en/challenge-2011

As always, if you have any questions about anything fischertechnik related, or perhaps some ideas to share, please feel free to contact me directly at [email protected].

So until we meet again next month, happy building!

Author: Lance Zurek