HEXA

  • Jordan Cole, iReviews
  • November 01,2022
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HEXA

Learning to program a smart robot toy has traditionally been isolated to S.T.E.M. classes in grade schools. In the past year, robotics manufacturers have released KOOV, LEGO Boost, Robo Wunderkind, and Anki Cozmo – all programmable robots designed to capture the budding roboticist from ages 8 and up. Recently, Vincross created the six-legged HEXA, for the creative adult interested in tinkering with their own robot creation.

Hexa’s intelligent Design Features

Whether you want your robot to dance anytime your smartphone buzzes or have it give you a full weather forecast/traffic report the moment your alarm goes off, Vincross’ Linux-based MIND system gives beginner programmers an open-SDK platform for creativity. Equipped with a full suite of sensors that include voice activation, Hexa is only limited to the programmer’s imagination.

 

Standing 4.7 inches (12 cm) high and 10 inches (51 cm) across, Hexa is a pocket-sized insectoid designed specifically for adults looking for a new hobby. Hexa programmers work in Vincross’ Linux-based MIND platform, where the coding magic happens.

State-of-the-Art Technology

Hexa comes with a collection of basic functions, including being able to “walk forward” but the majority of the programming comes from you. Capable of navigating its built-in accelerometer, an infrared sensor, and a 720p camera, the Hexa robot is a rather intuitive robot that fully understands its environment. Equipped with obstacle avoidance technology and a night vision sensor, Hexa can roam your house as a surveillance robot or simply adjust the lighting by speaking to your Phillips Hue dimmers.

Connectivity

The best part about coding your Hexa robot is getting to share your newly developed skills with the Hexa Hivemind community. After mastering a series of if/then statements, you get to experience the fruits of your labor. Your Droid can receive inputs from voice commands, gestures, light, temperature, or signals from smartphones and computers. As a DIYer, the satisfaction comes with being able to program your robot to raise the temperature of your Nest Thermostat the moment the outside temp reaches below freezing.

Programming 101

Hexa has the ability to walk, wave, grab, transmit data, or control your connected IoT devices. How the Droid does it is entirely up to its programmer. In a New Atlas article, Hexa was described as Raspberry Pi but with legs and eyes. Users are able to code by accessing the Vincross development kit (based on Go programming language) or through the visual simulator.

 

Programmers are able to upload their newly developed Hexa skill to the Vincross store – giving the Hivemind community access to a new way to control their robot. With an entire community of developers posting their newest Hexa skills, users have access to a complete encyclopedia of programming language – developing their coding skills. The Explore Mode, for example, allows the user to navigate Hexa through the robot’s eye – sending a live video feed to any connected smart device.

The Bottom Line

With close to $50,000 already raised from the company’s Kickstarter campaign, Vincross is filling a niche in the robotics industry. Outside of the impressive Linux platform that allows complete creative freedom, Vincross gives new coders the much-needed support by way of the Hivemind community.

 

Source: Vincross, Kickstarter, New Atlas

PROS
  • Linux Operating System
  • Perfect for Beginner Adult Coders
  • SDK Platform
  • Night Vision
  • Connects to IoT Devices
  • Hexa Hivemind Community
  • Go Programming Language
CONS
  • Availability
Jordan Cole, iReviews

By Jordan Cole, iReviews

Jordan Cole is a USC Masters student from upstate New York. The Syracuse University Alumni has worked with publishing firms, marketing departments, and communications specialists across the country.