Keyestudio Beetlebot 3-in-1 Robot Car Kit Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The Keyestudio Beetlebot is a versatile 3-in-1 smart robot kit compatible with LEGO building blocks, designed for STEM education. It offers multiple functions including obstacle avoidance, line tracking, light following, and various control methods like IR and WiFi. This kit supports programming with Arduino C, MicroPython, and Scratch (Kidsblock), fostering creativity and problem-solving skills in young learners. The Beetlebot car integrates a motor driver and a large number of sensors, making it easy to assemble and an excellent platform for learning basic programming and AI applications.

Figure 1: Keyestudio Beetlebot 3-in-1 Robot Car Kit

2. Key Features

• LEGO Compatibility: Generate diverse forms and expand functionality with standard LEGO building blocks.
• Three Forms: Easily transform into a soccer robot, a siege engine, or a handling robot.
• Various Functions: Supports picture display, atmosphere light control, line tracking, obstacle avoidance, light following, IR control, and WiFi control.
• Easy to Build: Features an embedded design on the car body for straightforward assembly with minimal wiring steps.
• High Compatibility: Reserved ports for Raspberry Pi Pico, ESP32, and Arduino Nano control boards.
• Charging Function: Integrated circuit for 18650 lithium batteries, offering a low-cost and effective power solution.
• WiFi Control: Utilizes WiFi for control, allowing for custom software development and flexible operation.
• App Control: Compatible with both Android and iOS systems, featuring an intuitive interface and flexible control system.

3. Specifications

4. Packing List

The kit includes the following components:

Figure 2: All components included in the kit

• Control Board (ESP32 Development Board, HC340 Nano, or Raspberry Pi Pico depending on variant)
• HC-SR04 Ultrasonic Sensor
• Photoresistor
• Keyestudio Shield
• Driver Board
• 8*8 Dot Matrix Display
• Remote Control
• 4.5V 200R Motor (x2)
• 270° Servo
• 9G 180° Servo
• W420 Universal Wheel
• W1515 Universal Wheel
• Acrylic Board
• MD0487 Acrylic Board for Ultrasonic Sensor
• Aluminum Block
• Big Bulk for LEGO (various LEGO-compatible blocks)
• Car Wheel (x2)
• Map (for line tracking)
• Black USB Cable
• 10P XH2.54 Dupont Wire
• 4P F-F Dupont Wire
• HX2.54mm-4P Dupont Wire
• 3P F-F Dupont Wire
• Screwdriver (x2)
• Winding Pipe
• Soccer Ball
• Acrylic Board for Servo
• Acrylic Gasket
• Various Screws (M3*30mm, M3*10mm, M2*8mm, M3*6mm, M1.4*10mm, M1.2*5mm Round Head Screws)
• M3 Nuts, M2 Nuts, M1.4 Nuts
• M3*40mm Dual Pass Copper Pillars

5. Setup and Assembly

The Beetlebot is designed for easy assembly. Follow the detailed assembly tutorials provided in the resources section. The robot's embedded design simplifies wiring, allowing you to focus on building and programming.

5.1. Control Board Installation

The kit is compatible with different control boards: Arduino Nano (CH340), ESP32, or Raspberry Pi Pico. Ensure you have the correct variant for your kit.

Figure 3: ESP32 Development Board Connection

Figure 4: Raspberry Pi Pico Connection

5.2. General Assembly Steps

1. Unpack all components and verify against the packing list.
2. Assemble the main chassis using the acrylic boards and screws.
3. Mount the motors and wheels.
4. Install your chosen control board (Arduino Nano, ESP32, or Raspberry Pi Pico) onto the designated headers.
5. Connect the sensors (ultrasonic, photoresistor) and actuators (servos, dot matrix display) to the control board using the provided Dupont wires.
6. Insert the 18650 lithium battery (not included) into its compartment.
7. Attach any LEGO building blocks to create your desired robot form (soccer, siege, or handling robot).

Figure 5: Easy Assembly with LEGO Blocks

6. Operating the Beetlebot

The Beetlebot offers multiple ways to interact and control its functions.

6.1. Programming Modes

The Beetlebot supports various programming environments suitable for different skill levels:

• Arduino C/C++: For advanced users familiar with Arduino IDE.
• MicroPython: An efficient implementation of Python 3 for microcontrollers.
• Scratch (Kidsblock): A visual block-based programming language ideal for beginners.

Figure 6: Supported Programming Modes

6.2. Control Methods

• App Control (WiFi): Use the dedicated mobile application (Android/iOS compatible) to control the robot via WiFi. The app provides an aesthetic page and flexible control system.
• IR Remote Control: Utilize the included infrared remote control for basic movements and function activation.

Figure 7: App Control Interface

6.3. Robot Forms and Functions

The Beetlebot can be configured into three main forms, each demonstrating different functionalities:

• Soccer Robot: Designed to push or kick a small soccer ball.
• Siege Engine (Catapult): Equipped with a mechanism to launch objects.
• Handling Robot: Features a gripper or arm for picking up and moving small items.

Figure 8: Soccer Robot Form

Figure 9: Catapult Robot Form

Figure 10: Handling Robot Form

6.4. Demonstrations of Functions

Video 1: Product demonstration showcasing obstacle avoidance, line tracking, light following, and IR control.

• Obstacle Avoidance: The robot uses its ultrasonic sensor to detect obstacles and navigate around them.


Figure 11: Obstacle Avoidance in action

• Line Tracking: The robot can follow a black line on a light surface using its line tracking sensors.
• Light Following: The robot can be programmed to move towards a light source.


Figure 12: Light Following function

• 8x8 Dot Matrix Display: The integrated LED matrix can display various patterns and animations.


Figure 13: 8x8 Dot Matrix Display

7. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the robot's surfaces. Avoid using liquids or harsh chemicals.
• Battery Care: The Beetlebot uses an 18650 lithium battery (not included). Ensure proper polarity when inserting. Recharge the battery when performance degrades. Do not overcharge or completely drain the battery to prolong its lifespan.
• Storage: Store the robot in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. If storing for an extended period, remove the battery.
• Component Check: Periodically check all connections and screws to ensure they are secure.

8. Troubleshooting

• Robot not moving: Check battery charge, ensure all motor connections are secure, and verify that the code is correctly uploaded and running.
• Sensors not responding: Ensure sensors are correctly wired to the control board and that the code is configured to read from the correct pins. Clean sensor surfaces if dusty.
• App control issues: Verify that the robot's WiFi module is powered on and correctly configured. Ensure your mobile device is connected to the robot's WiFi network (if applicable) or the same local network.
• Programming upload failure: Check USB cable connection, ensure correct board and port are selected in your IDE, and verify driver installation for your control board.

9. User Tips

• Start Simple: Begin with basic programming examples to understand the robot's movements and sensor interactions before attempting complex projects.
• Explore LEGO: Don't hesitate to experiment with different LEGO block configurations to create unique robot designs and functionalities.
• Community Resources: Many online communities exist for Arduino, ESP32, and Raspberry Pi Pico. These can be valuable resources for project ideas and troubleshooting.
• Battery Safety: Always use high-quality 18650 batteries and follow safety guidelines for charging and handling lithium-ion cells.

10. Warranty and Support

For detailed tutorials, code examples, libraries, and further support, please refer to the official Keyestudio resources:

• General Resources: https://fs.keyestudio.com/KS0543
• ESP32 Specific Resources: https://fs.keyestudio.com/KS5002
• Raspberry Pi Pico Specific Resources: https://fs.keyestudio.com/KS3027

For any product-related inquiries or technical assistance, please contact Keyestudio customer support through their official channels.