Gigo Toys STEM Robotics Kit Smart Building Cars 8+ years plastic Genius Toy

The Gigo Toys STEM robotics kit offers children a simple, fun, and customizable introduction to robotics. With this set, children build eight motorized machines controlled by programs and an ultrasonic sensor. All models use tracks, also known as tank treads, to move themselves and other objects. Children code the programs using a simple, visual programming app on a tablet or smartphone, which connects to the robot models via a wireless Bluetooth connection.

The ultrasonic sensor works on the same principle as sonar: it sends out sound waves that bounce off objects, then interprets the returning echoes to detect objects in its path. Using the app's interface, children can program the robots they build to behave according to feedback from the ultrasonic sensor. One can build a robot that navigates around and avoids obstacles in its path, and a long-necked scout robot uses its sensor to navigate around obstacles in a configured course.

Possible models include a follower robot that detects a child's hand and follows it, a conveyor belt robot that moves small objects along its two belts, an escalator model that carries objects to another level, and a tundra explorer that crosses small obstacles thanks to its unique tread design. Other fun robots can also be assembled, including a bulldozer robot with a front attachment and a fire rescue robot that drives its ladder close to other objects.

Once the child understands how the technology works, they can build and program their own robots using the kit's building pieces. In the programming app, the visual language allows for commanding the motors at different times, at different power levels, in different directions, and in response to data from the sensor. The kit requires a tablet or smartphone running iOS or Android with Bluetooth support, and free apps can be downloaded for both systems. The pieces in this kit are compatible with pieces from other Gigo Toys construction sets.

Frequently Asked Questions

From what age is the kit recommended? The recommended age is 8 years and up.

What batteries does it need? It requires 3 AA/LR06 batteries, which are not included in the set.

What device is needed for programming? A tablet or smartphone running iOS or Android with Bluetooth support and the free app installed is required.