There are definitely some things that robots can do better than us humans, and here is a prime example: a Lego Robot that is powered by a Motorola Milestone Android smartphone can solve a Rubik’s cube.
Not only does the robot solve the Rubik’s cube, but it does it in just 24 seconds. Check out the video of this cool Android-powered Lego robot below.
The Creation of the Android-Powered Lego Robot
This cool problem-solving Android Lego robot was created by David Gilday for ARM. He made a custom application for Android that powers the robot and enables it to solve the Rubik’s cube. The ingenuity behind this creation lies in the seamless integration of hardware and software. The Motorola Milestone Android smartphone acts as the brain of the robot, processing the cube’s configuration and determining the optimal sequence of moves to solve it.
David Gilday’s creation is not just a testament to his programming skills but also to the versatility of the Android platform. By leveraging the processing power of the smartphone and the mechanical precision of Lego components, he was able to create a robot that performs a complex task with remarkable speed and accuracy.
How It Works
The robot uses the camera of the Motorola Milestone to scan the Rubik’s cube and identify the colors on each face. The custom Android application then processes this information and calculates the solution using advanced algorithms. These algorithms are designed to find the shortest possible sequence of moves to solve the cube, a challenge that has fascinated mathematicians and computer scientists for decades.
Once the solution is determined, the Android application sends commands to the Lego robot’s motors, which execute the moves. The precision and speed with which the robot operates are impressive, completing the task in just 24 seconds. This is significantly faster than the average human, who typically takes several minutes to solve the cube.
The project demonstrates the potential of combining consumer electronics with DIY robotics. It opens up possibilities for hobbyists and educators to explore similar projects, fostering a deeper understanding of both programming and mechanical engineering.
Implications and Future Prospects
The success of this Android-powered Lego robot has broader implications for the field of robotics and artificial intelligence. It showcases how accessible technology can be used to solve complex problems, making advanced robotics more approachable for enthusiasts and students. This project could inspire future innovations in educational tools, where similar robots could be used to teach programming, mathematics, and engineering concepts in a hands-on manner.
Moreover, the project highlights the potential for smartphones to serve as powerful controllers for various robotic applications. As smartphone technology continues to advance, with more powerful processors and better sensors, the range of possible applications will only expand. We could see more sophisticated robots capable of performing even more complex tasks, from household chores to industrial automation.
Have a look at our article on Android vs iPhone to see which smartphone and mobile platform is best for you.
Make via Technabob, TFTS
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