DJI Unveils The RoboMaster S1, An Advanced Educational Robot For Tech Enthusiasts Of All Ages
The S1 Combines Advanced Hardware, Comprehensive Sensing and Programmable Modes
DJI, the global leader in civilian drones and aerial imaging technology, today takes a bold step into educational technology by launching the RoboMaster S1, the company’s first ground-based robot. The S1 was built to introduce new users to the fun and possibilities of robotic technology, with powerful brushless motors, a chassis that can move in all directions, a high-precision gimbal, and interactive modes for programming, play, and competition. S1 users can have fun while assembling designated and custom hardware, learning to maneuver the rover, programming with Python or Scratch and competing with friends in multiple modes.
“DJI is powered by passionate engineers with the continued desire to push the boundaries of technology,” said Frank Wang, DJI's Founder & CEO. “Passion is vital but so is the opportunity to learn and engage with technology at an early age. We developed the RoboMaster S1 with the next generation of innovators in mind, making robotics and programming not just more accessible but also an entertaining and academic experience.”
Advanced, Safe and, Intuitively Designed
The S1, short for “Step 1,” is a highly advanced rover designed to give new users an easy introduction to AI, engineering, and robotics. With simple controls, a dedicated RoboMaster app, easily navigable menus, and a wealth of tutorials, the S1 is approachable to newcomers while offering advanced features to users already experienced in AI, engineering, and robotics.
The S1 is equipped with 31 sensors to help map the world around it, including six on its intelligent body armor, which are used to detect hits. Atop the durable S1 frame is a first-person view (FPV) camera that sends a stabilized live feed from the S1 to the RoboMaster app. It also features a specialized mechanical gimbal with an infrared and nontoxic gel bead[1] Blaster, which automatically limits launching rate and angle to help ensure safety. The S1 is modular with DJI parts and also includes six Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) control ports so advanced users can take advantage of third-party hardware.
Using the FPV camera and machine vision technology, the S1 can identify different objects automatically, recognize and respond to sounds, and receive signals from other S1 units. The powerful central processing unit and industrial-grade CAN-bus cable enable it to process large amounts of data, maintaining a stable transmission signal even while performing multiple tasks. Along with its custom brushless motor, the S1 has four Mecanum wheels, most commonly found on competitive robots, each with 12 rollers that allow omnidirectional movement and precision control while operating.
Experience and Explore Advanced Technology
The S1 is equipped with leading machine vision technology, enabling users to get hands-on experience with real-world applications. The S1 can perform six intelligent recognition functions, including:
Line Follow: Create a fun and interactive course and map out the path desired for the S1. Program Line Follow through the RoboMaster app and the S1 will automatically follow the line.
Vision Marker Recognition: The S1 can recognize up to 44 Vision Markers, including numbers, letters, and special characters, which opens more potential for coding, combat, and training.
Follow Mode: Built into the RoboMaster app, the S1 can identify and follow a person selected in the S1’s field of vision.
Clap Recognition: A built-in clap recognition module on the S1 can be programmed for unique responses based upon clap quantity.
Gesture Recognition: The S1 can be programmed to recognize an array of physical hand gestures similar to some DJI drones.
S1 Recognition: The S1 can recognize other S1 units and perform unique movements based on how it is programmed.
Users looking for more advanced functions can write Scratch 3.0 or Python code to program their own unique S1 functions, from how it moves, to increasing efficiency and optimizing the torque of the four wheels. Users can even write their own programs and add them as custom skills, which can be used during gameplay for an added advantage such as “Hit and Turn Back,” where the S1 turns and counter-attacks after being hit from behind. The S1 encourages users to continue learning and push the boundaries of their own creativity. Built into the RoboMaster app, users will have access to “Road to Mastery,” an immersive, project-based course series to educate S1 owners on programming languages. Additionally, “RoboAcademy” offers informative video tutorials and programming guides to introduce robotics and coding. New courses will continually be added and updated for both “RoboAcademy” and “Road to Mastery.”
Interactive and Entertaining Modes
Inspired by the standard robots featured in DJI’s international RoboMaster Robotics Competition, the S1 features several fun and interactive competition modes. SOLO modes include Target Practice and Target Race, where users must scan preset Vision Markers. Multiplayer Battle modes include Race and Free-for-All. In Race mode, users race S1s to scan numbered Vision Markers in the right sequence, and the player who completes the course fastest wins. In Free-for-All mode, players battle using either gel beads or infrared beams. To add even more excitement, the multiplayer battle mode has four Mystery Bonuses that players can use against their opponents: Dizziness, Electromagnetic Interference, Extreme Speed, and Invincibility.
Educational Products
DJI has invested in robotics education since 2013 with the introduction of the RoboMaster competition. The launch of the RoboMaster S1 marks DJI’s first step into the robotics education field, supported with courses, educational materials, events, and hardware. DJI will continue to partner with schools, robotics clubs, organizations, and others to expand its presence in the field. In August of 2019, DJI will also host the first RoboMaster S1 Challenge during the RoboMaster finals in Shenzhen, China.
Price and Availability
Starting June 12, the RoboMaster S1 will be available for purchase for the retail price of $499. A “PlayMore Kit”, which includes the dedicated gamepad, additional gel beads, one battery, and a gel bead container, will be available for purchase at a later date.
The RoboMaster S1 will be available for purchase on store.dji.com and at flagship stores. Pricing and availability for RoboMaster S1 accessories will be available at a later date. The S1 will offer exclusive education pricing to students and teachers. Please contact education@dji.com for more details.
For more information on all of the features and capabilities of the RoboMaster S1, please visit: https://www.dji.com/ee/robomaster-s1
[1] The nontoxic gel beads are made of composite material and must be soaked in water to soften them before use. Each S1 purchase includes safety goggles.
