A Versatile, Low-Cost Robotic System for Educational Applications

The rising cost of robotic platforms has created significant challenges for engineering students and academic institutions. High prices often make these platforms unaffordable for students, limiting their access to hands-on experience in robotics. Similarly, schools face financial strain in maintaining and upgrading such systems, which can hinder their ability to provide quality education in robotics and automation. This issue has become particularly pressing as robotics plays a critical role in engineering and technology curriculum. A solution to these issues is a low-cost, low-power robotic system that balances affordability with advanced functionality. A platform is needed that integrates essential features such as ROS (Robot Operating System), LiDAR, motor control, and camera vision, providing a comprehensive tool-set for learning and experimentation. Furthermore, the system should support simple functionality for beginners, but also be able to accommodate students wanting to progress to advanced robotic applications. This paper explores the design and development process of this robotic platform, highlighting its modular design, affordability, and versatility.