Inspiring children learn robotics engineering

The MeArm is an easy to build robot arm kit which can be built with nothing but enthusiasm and a screwdriver. Indeed, the only tool necessary is a hex key which comes with the kit. This latest product from Kitronik enables users to build, code and then control their own robotic arm, similar to those used in engineering and manufacturing. Imaginations can run wild as the power of the MeArm robot is set to work on functional tasks when combined with other models and construction kits.

It has been designed from the ground up to be easy to build and use and to be relevant to all experience levels, with simple coding capability which means enthusiastic schoolchildren (and their teachers) can begin coding the device as soon as it is built. Its compatibility with the BBC micro:bit, Arduino and Raspberry Pi ,and its use of different coding editors, means that MeArm can suit every ability level. 

The MeArm can be controlled directly through the on-board joy sticks, or it can be made to move using one of the programming languages supported by the BBC micro:bit, Arduino or Raspberry Pi. 

Kitronik co-Founder and Director, Kevin Spurr, said: “What better way of inspiring children to become interested in robotics, technology, engineering and programming than by enabling them, with the help of their teachers, to create their own version of a piece of technology that is used in the real world, and in careers that they could be inspired to enter into.

“We believe that children should begin to learn to code as early as possible and have therefore deliberately kept the coding language simple and accessible. We hope that everyone will enjoy this introduction into the world of robotics.”

The MeArm has been developed over the last five years by Dr Ben Gray who has since joined Kitronik to oversee the product’s further development. Kitronik has struck an exclusive deal with Dr Gray to manufacture and distribute the MeArm as part of their range of BBC micro:bit, Adruino and Raspberry Pi compatible electronics kits and accessories. 

Dr Gray commented: “I am pleased to see the MeArm project come to life and I look forward to seeing more students and makers using the device. My aim for the MeArm was for it to be accessible and easy to build so I am confident that enthusiastic electronics experts of the future will have fun with the device and, hopefully, develop a love for robotics and coding.” 

Kitronik was one of the original partner organisations collaborating with the BBC to develop the micro:bit project and is a distribution partner for the micro:bit Educational Foundation. The Nottingham based company is a leading developer of electronics project kits and learning resources for schools, makers and coders and is on a mission to create products and resources to ensure users realise the full potential of the device.