Today’s robot kit goes by several names, some of which are Kiko 893, Tobbie and Probbie 97. The version I purchased is Probbie 97, a robot model kit branded by Proskit. Proskit is a company that produces educational kits, and various tools.
Probbie is a fun affordable walking robot model kit. It has a built in electronics package with IR sensors, leds and a speaker. It has 2 modes; follow and avoid. The modes are selected by pushing and holding the power button, which is located above and between it’s eyes. While the follow mode is activated probbie will stay about 6 inches from an object. In the avoidance mode, Probbie will navigate around changing direction when an object is detected.
With big blue eyes, fun sound effects and an animated idle stance Probbie has a playful personality. Probbie uses just two motors, one for turning his body and the other for moving the legs. One motor connects to a “complex/simple” gear system that raises and re-positions the legs. The other motor rotates the upper body. Robotic hexapods usually use several servos per leg and are expensive.
Pros:
- Comes with electronics.
- Doesn’t require programming.
- Nice eye animations and sound effects.
- Probbies’ walking gait is cute.
- Built in electronics and sensors.
- Good value.
- Fun to build and play with.
- Kids really like probbie.
Cons:
- The lower motor and gear housing assembly is complex to build.
- Some of the black leg pieces can break easily.
- Can’t be programmed.
- The robot is often re-branded and copied.
- Not many expansion options.
Conclusion:
Probbie is a quality educational robotics kit. There aren’t many walking robots at this price range, if any. Kits in this price range generally come without electronics. I recommend having an interest in model kits, as building the kit is most of the fun. There is a new version available, I will most likely compare the two in the future. Probbie is a fun kit to build and kids really love to play with it. If you’re interested in robotics or know someone who is, this is a great little robot to buy.
Note:
Miniplan sells an aftermarket electronics package. The upgrade enables programming and smart phone control. I will make a post about it.
