Seeed Studio started selling Makeblock, a new Arduino controlled modular robotics platform. They are made of aluminum, and come in many modular shapes you can design your robot with:
Makeblock is made of strong, hardened aluminum which is able to support the weight of an adult and more. In conjunction with a more durable material, Jasen and Alex, have developed a unique design utilizing threaded slots to allow you to put screws anywhere along the beam, eliminating the need for nuts and providing unlimited options in placement. They also use industrial standard components, motors, links, timing belts, gear and rotational and linear bearings to bring flexibility to this system. Let’s not forget that the kits are 100% compatible with all Arduinos/Seeeduinos and the whole Grove Prototyping System as well!
What I’m trying to compare at the moment:
Makeblock: $180 mechanical, $85 electronics
Mindstorms: $350 base kit
I see advantages both ways, but Makeblock seems pretty enticing at that price with those aluminum parts…
This looks seriously cool, I am tempted to jump in. The mechanical side has been a weak point for lots of people (me included) for such a long time, I really hope this takes off.