Alpy: The Future of Educational Robotics

Levent Muslular's Innovative STEAM Kit Transforms Learning

Alpy stands out in the realm of educational robots due to its unique properties. It combines the functionalities of a complete STEAM kit with the attraction of a robot, offering a novel approach to learning. The product can easily be transformed from a basic physically programmed robot to an autonomous intelligent robot. The platform customization is handled through opaque, transparent, rigid, or function-specific modules with common interfaces. The components can easily be altered by the user due to the robust inherent design and require no soldering or special tools.

The realization of Alpy's design involves the use of CNC laser cutting to create acrylic plates for the outer shell, while the inner chassis is made of two identical aluminum parts. The robot communicates with mobile devices via Bluetooth. Weighing 530 grams and with dimensions of 135 x 110 x 110mm, Alpy is designed to be easily handled by children.

Alpy operates in coordination with a mobile application and a two-sided board. The application offers two main options for programming and controlling Alpy. The first option consists of scenarios with incrementally challenging levels. Children program Alpy through the mobile application to complete each scenario with basic movement commands. The second option allows children to make Alpy draw shapes on the board or make free movements with sounds and lights. They can also program the robot using embedded sensors.

The design of Alpy was inspired by the need to introduce coding and STEM applications to children as early as possible. The project, which started in March 2018 in Ankara and finished in December 2018, faced challenges such as optimizing the dimensions and weight of Alpy for safe handling by children and customization without changing the inner chassis.

Alpy represents a new perspective in the educational robot’s arena. It is a versatile robot that can be used widely from preschool to university degrees, due to its customizable nature. The design was awarded the Golden A' Baby, Kids and Children's Products Design Award in 2019, a testament to its outstanding and trendsetting design that advances art, science, design, and technology.