Maqueen Plus V3 - STEM Educational micro:bit Robot with Matrix Laser Ranging (18650 Battery) - แท้จาก DFRobot

Introduction

The Maqueen Plus V3 is an advanced programmable educational robot, often powered by a micro:bit controller, engineered to revolutionize STEM robot education and robotics competitions for primary and secondary school students. As a versatile coding robot, the Maqueen Plus V3 integrates a sophisticated suite of sensors and control mechanisms. It leverages a powerful matrix laser ranging sensor for environmental perception, high-precision motor encoders with PID control for accurate movement, and built-in algorithms for complex tasks such as line-tracking and intersection recognition. These capabilities enable dynamic and intricate applications, making it an ideal platform for student robotics and hands-on STEM learning.

Precision Navigation with Matrix Laser Ranging

The Maqueen Plus V3 features a cutting-edge matrix laser ranging sensor, a significant leap from standard ultrasonic sensors. This provides superior accuracy (e.g., ±11mm for white targets at 20-200mm) and rapid response (up to 60Hz in 4x4 mode) over a 60-degree field of view. This enables the robot to not only detect distances but also pinpoint obstacle positions, facilitating intelligent route planning and sophisticated obstacle avoidance for advanced autonomous movement.

Simplified Advanced Tasks with Built-in Algorithms

Mastering line-tracking and intersection navigation is streamlined with algorithms integrated directly into the robot's core. The onboard line-tracking significantly lowers the entry barrier to this fundamental skill, allowing students to focus on higher-level strategies. Furthermore, the innovative built-in intersection recognition identifies various junction types (crossroads, T-junctions, etc.) in real time, enabling the creation of complex map-based challenges and enriching competition diversity. These functions operate independently, freeing the main controller for other tasks.

Figure: Maqueen Plus V3 Built-in Line-tracking Algorithms

Figure: Maqueen Plus V3 Built-in Intersection Recognition Algorithms

Accurate Movement with Motor Encoders & PID Control

Unlike many educational robots lacking precise motion capabilities, the Maqueen Plus V3 incorporates high-precision motor encoders with PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) control. This allows for exact control over travel distance and steering angles without cumbersome trial-and-error debugging. Expect reliable and repeatable performance in tasks demanding accurate navigation, a crucial advantage in both educational settings and competitive arenas.

Figure: Motor Encoders & PID Control makes Maqueen Plus V3 More Accurate

Enhanced Light Interaction

Enhanced interaction comes from dual light intensity sensors for applications like light-seeking or automatic headlights, complemented by vibrant, programmable RGB headlights and ambient lights that spark creativity and make learning more engaging.

Figure: Maqueen Plus with Dual Light Intensity Sensors

Detachable Metal Motor Components

The Maqueen Plus V3 is equipped with finely parameter-matched metal motors, selected after rigorous testing and verification of over 30 motor samples to ensure optimal performance, reliability, and speed, resulting in smooth rotation without stalling. The motors are holistically protected to minimize the risk of debris entering and damaging the gearbox. Recognizing the frequent use and potential wear (e.g., brush wear, damage from accidental drops or squeezing) in advanced teaching and competitions, the robot features a detachable motor design. This allows for quick replacement of damaged motors, preventing disruptions to educational activities and competitions.

Additionally, a dedicated voltage-stabilizing chip for the motors ensures consistent running speed, unaffected by battery voltage decline, allowing programs to run reliably without parameter modifications.

Applications

• STEM Robot Education

• Robotic Competition

Specification

Power Supply

• 18650 Version: 3.5V - 4.2V (1x 18650 lithium battery)

• Protection: Battery reverse connection protection supported

Onboard Sensors & Perception

• Line-Tracking System:

           Sensors: 5

           Calibration: Dedicated button

           Output: Digital / Analog

           Built-in Intersection Recognition: 4 types (Crossroad, T-shaped, Right turn & Straight, Left turn & Straight)

           Built-in Algorithm Speed: 5 adjustable levels

• Matrix Laser Ranging Sensor:

           Interface: I2C / UART / USB (PH2.0-4P & TYPE-C)

           Matrix Resolution: 8x8 (64 points)

           Modes: Matrix measurement / Intelligent obstacle avoidance

           I2C Address: 4 selectable (0x30 - 0x33)

           Ranging Update Rate: 15Hz - 60Hz

           Ranging Range: 20mm - 4000mm

           Accuracy (20-200mm): ±11mm (white targets), ±12mm (gray targets)

           Accuracy (200-4000mm): ±5% (white targets), ±6% (gray targets)

           Detection Angle: 60° H x 60° V (90° Diagonal)

           Laser Safety: Class 1 compliant

           Firmware Update: Supported via USB

• Light Sensors:

           Quantity: 2

           Data Range: 0 - 1023

• Infrared Receiver: 1

Motors & Motion Control

• Motors: 2x N20 Metal Motors

           Interface: PH2.0 - 2P

           Power Supply: Independent 5V regulated

           Mounting: Screw-fixed, detachable

• Encoders & PID Control:

           Encoders: 2 (Magnetic induction, 4-line resolution)

           PID Control: For precise distance and angle control

           Speed Measurement Unit: Centimeters per minute (Note: Consider "cm/s" for more conventional robotics speed representation)

Lighting & Audio Indication:

• RGB LEDs:

           Ambient Lights: 4x WS2812 (Full R255 G255 B255 color spectrum)

           Car Headlights: 2x Programmable RGB (Red, Green, Yellow, Blue, Purple, Cyan, White)

• Buzzer: 1

Mechanical, Expansion & Other Features:

• Mounting & Adjustment:

           Metal Bracket Parts: 2

           Bracket Adjustment: 1-axis, 270° range (M3 thumb screws)

           PCB Threaded Interfaces: 2

• Expansion: 14x Extended GPIOs

• Protection: Bottom acrylic protection plate

• Firmware Upgrade: Dedicated interface and button

Documents

• Product wiki

Shipping List

• Maqueen Plus V3 Baseboard x1

• Metal Motor with Encoder and Connection Cable (already installed on the baseboard) x2

• 18650 Battery Board x1

• Matrix Laser Ranging Sensor x1

• PH2.0 - 4P Sensor Connection Cable x1

• Wheels x2

• Line-Tracking Map x1

• Screwdriver x1

• Metal Support Frame x1

• Metal Mounting Bracket x1

• 35mm Mounting Copper Pillars x5

• M3 Mounting Screws x5

• M3 Thumb Screws x4