iRobot's Roomba is best known as an autonomous floor cleaner. However, iRobot has something else in mind for the vacuum -- providing a foundation for innovative robotics.
Judging by the iRobot Create 2, when you take out the guts of a vacuum, what you get is a programmable tool for hackers.
The device, basically a refurbished Roomba 630, is being marketed as an educational tool and is available for $200.
"As a global leader in robotics technology, iRobot believes its greatest social responsibility is to ignite students' passion for STEM-related careers through the excitement of robots," said Colin Angle, chairman and CEO of iRobot.
The company is supplying the device to enhance STEM, or science, technology, engineering and math, programs. Not only does it come with hardware and a USB cable, but it also comes with a faceplate drill template, encouraging users to start building their own robotic inventions. There is even a programming interface included for the software side and a list of DIY projects that can be built with it.
For example, the device can be made into a Bluetooth-controlled DJ, a tiny security guard, or anything else that a consumer's skills and budget allow for.
"Robots have a cool factor unlike any other learning tool. Create 2, with its online resources, reliable hardware born of the award-winning Roomba, and ease of customization simply delivers more robot than anything available to students and educators at or near its price. We are so excited to be able to make this available to the educational community," continued Angle.
As the name of the device suggests, the Create 2 is the second generation of DIY Roomba-based robots. The first Create could be made into a device for laser-tag or a platform to transport a pet hamster. Silly projects, but ones that nonetheless taught users how to use robots.
The fact the device is only $200 is also nice, making it much more affordable for students who might not have much money to spend.
The device is specifically targeted at students from kindergarten to grade 12, and while kindergartners might have a rough time with it, those closer to high school age will probably be able to create some very cool stuff.
iRobot also announced it has been named as the head organizer and founder of National Robotics Week, held between April 4-12.
