Robotics development kit is compatible with ROS1 and ROS2
Increasing support for robotics development, TDK has introduced the RoboKit. The development kit includes a six-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU), pressure sensor, magnetometer, temperature sensor, embedded motor controller, ultrasonic time of flight (ToF) sensors and an industrial IMU sensor module.
Designed for quick prototyping and development the robotics hardware platform is accompanied by ROS1 and ROS2 -compliant drivers and software algorithms.
The RoboKit will be offered as a stand-alone development platform as well as a full robot reference design. The board will consist of the six-axis IMU (three-axis gyroscope, three-axis accelerometer), a capacitive barometric pressure sensor, four digital I²S microphones, a temperature sensor, embedded motor controller and magnetometer. There are also Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) -enabled Windows and Android apps for the sensors and algorithms evaluation and data collection.
Depending on the version, there will also be TDK’s industrial IMU sensor module via flex cables, a full robotic chassis and 3D printed casing, allowing end customers to develop a fully functional robotic reference design.
The company claims the combination of hardware from multiple TDK group companies, with software stacks and algorithms that solve real robotics problems is “a first of its kind and will help fast track robotics at any point during the development process”.
The development kit is suitable for industrial and consumer robotics and drones. It is available to order now through distribution channels worldwide, with shipping targeted for mid Q1 2022.
TDK is based in Tokyo, Japan. It was established in 1935 to commercialise ferrite, a key material in electronic and magnetic products. Today, its portfolio features passive components such as ceramic, aluminium electrolytic and film capacitors, as well as magnetics, high-frequency and piezo and protection devices. The product spectrum also includes sensors and sensor systems such as temperature and pressure, magnetic and MEMS sensors. In addition, TDK provides power supplies and energy devices and magnetic heads. These products are marketed under the product brands TDK, Epcos, InvenSense, Micronas, Tronics and TDK-Lambda.
TDK focuses on demanding markets in automotive, industrial and consumer electronics, and information and communication technology. The company has a network of design and manufacturing locations and sales offices in Asia, Europe, and in North and South America.
InvenSense is a TDK Group company. Its solutions combine MEMS (micro electrical mechanical systems) sensors, such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, compasses, microphones, and ultrasonic 3D-sensing with proprietary algorithms and firmware that intelligently process, synthesise and calibrate the output of sensors. The company’s motion tracking, ultrasonic, audio, fingerprint, location platforms and services can be found in mobile, wearables, smart home, industrial, automotive, and IoT products.
