Some of our readers will remember the Lego Street View car that we featured on the site back in June. It was built by Mark Crosbie, and now Mark has built another version, the Lego Street View Car 2.
The new Lego Street View car now uses an iPhone with iOS 5, and Mark says he chose the iPhone for the car’s camera as the photos can be automatically uploaded to PhotoStream.
I wanted to re-build the car to only use the Lego Mindstorms NXT motors. I was also keen to make it look more….car-like. The result, after 4 months of experimentation, is version 2.0 of the Lego Street View Car.
Innovations in the Lego Street View Car 2
Mark Crosbie’s second iteration of the Lego Street View Car showcases several innovative features that distinguish it from its predecessor. One of the most significant upgrades is the integration of an iPhone with iOS 5. This choice was strategic, as the iPhone’s camera capabilities and the seamless integration with PhotoStream allow for automatic photo uploads. This means that as the car navigates its environment, it can continuously capture and upload images without manual intervention, making the process more efficient and user-friendly.
Additionally, Mark focused on using only Lego Mindstorms NXT motors for this build. The Mindstorms NXT system is a programmable robotics kit released by Lego, which includes a variety of sensors and motors. By relying solely on these components, Mark ensured that the car remained true to its Lego roots while also enhancing its functionality. The use of these motors likely provided more precise control and better performance compared to the previous version.
Design and Aesthetic Improvements
Another notable aspect of the Lego Street View Car 2 is its improved design. Mark aimed to make the car look more like a real vehicle, and after four months of experimentation, he achieved a more polished and car-like appearance. This not only makes the project visually appealing but also adds to the authenticity of the Street View concept.
The car’s design improvements are not just cosmetic. A more realistic design can also contribute to better aerodynamics and stability, which are crucial for a moving vehicle that needs to capture clear images. The attention to detail in the design process reflects Mark’s dedication to creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing model.
The video above provides a closer look at the Lego Street View Car 2 in action. It demonstrates the car’s ability to navigate its surroundings and capture images, showcasing the practical applications of Mark’s innovative design.
You can find out more details about the second generation Lego Street View car over at Mark’s website.
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