LittleArm 2C: Fun, trainable Arduino-based robot arm

There are countless ways that technology can perk up the interest and curiosity of many people, especially children. One of these ways is the ability of smart and modern pieces of tech to give way for hours of a fun and an enjoyable learning experience. Thanks to the LittleArm 2C, kids (and kids at heart) can do wonders with robotics and technology in general. It’s a relatively small robotic arm that attaches to any desktop or workable surface, and is easily programmable with a software suite that helps to introduce the world of robotics to anyone.

Being labeled as “2C”, the LittleArm 2C takes inspiration from its original predecessor, the LittleArm. Riding the wind of success of the original LittleArm, the 2C is a refined homologation of the LittleArm with a slew of improvements made possible by constructive feedback from its original users. Makers of the LittleArm put careful consideration to the things that people want to see in the 2C, which includes a neater wiring and a variety of bright and engaging colors – making kids more focused on doing what they love about robotics.

At the heart of the LittleArm 2C is the Arduino platform, which makes it possible to have its unique blend of form and functionality. Arduino is well-loved by tech hobbyists the world over, and its strong presence in the 2C is a springboard for a broad range of possibilities that will allow anyone to make their very own robotic project. For the hardware part, it’s made for plug-and-play functionality and ease of use. Labels in the breadboard are clearly printed, so it’s a cinch to connect various peripherals and get going. The robotic arm can do a variety of new things that are improvements over the original LittleArm, which include faster 3D printing times, cleaner looks, tougher overall construction, and fewer parts that make it safer for younger children to tinker with. As with the hardware, the software packs cool features like a visual programming interface, re-programmable Arduino code, and enhanced usability and control over Bluetooth with the Windows and Android apps.

There are new things that come with the LittleArm 2C that make it more functional and fun to use. Hardware extensions such as Waldo, a motion capture device, will enable the 2C to be controlled by any tracked movement. This makes it perfect for hobbyist applications where certain physical movements on the Waldo can trigger a sequence of tasks on the LittleArm 2C. In addition, the LittleArm 2C now also supports an ultrasonic sensor that senses movements from a distance, enabling it to perform similarly to industrial and more expensive robotic arms.

If you’re on the market for a tiny robotic arm that does wonders, the LittleArm 2C might be the fit for your next DIY tech project.