A 3D Printed FDL-1 – a Real Robotics Kit for Playing, Shooting and Learning

FDL-1 is a new device that has become the result of years of hard work. The team assembled and disassembled it several times. This FDL-1 has been both a hobby and display of creativity. The project can prove to be efficient for both tinkers and makers and in general for everybody who likes creating and building objects with their own hands. FDL-1 is entirely 3D printed except for the electronics and hardware. It is possible to print it even with the most inexpensive consumer 3D printers, whose building size is only 6”x6”x6”. You print each part easily and put them together. There are many colours of filament available to print FDL-1; you can even combine several colours.

FDL-1 is a robotic blaster, that’s what makes it unconventional. The special Particle Photon microchip is embedded inside to allow programmed control. Thanks to the chip you can tune the FDL so that it could be tweaked according to your wishes and dreams. The microchip helps you to perform particular programs, carry out precise target locations and repetitive maneuvers. In the chip there’s a built-in wifi to allow remote control. All you need is to connect it to the network you use at home or at work, then find the internet connection wherever you are using a smartphone or a laptop and operate your FDL-1.

FDL-1 will help you to launch the darts quicker and further in comparison with other foam blasters available nowadays. There are two kinds of FDL – turret and blaster. Users can easily convert between the two forms. The turret can be placed on a desk or a cubicle corner and can be operated with the app on the website. The blaster form serves as any other kind of blaster. There is a battery in its handle for you to operate it without any wires or remote control. The main advantage of the FDL is that it promotes not only entertainment but also learning about robotics, programming and electronics.

The FDL-1 campaign aims at encouraging people to create things by themselves. As soon as they launch their own website, visitors will be able to find all the necessary files, instructions and schematics. The schematics will tell you what kind of hardware and electronics you will have to use to create your launcher.

To develop the project the team has to raise money. Therefore they’ve launched a Kickstarter campaign. Each of the followers will be given a reward. The money raised will be spent to start a line of various accessories and kits as well as developing FDLs of changing sizes.