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Pi Cruiser: A Raspberry Pi Mobile Computing System

Get started with Raspberry Pi, robotics, and coding as you build your own mini-computer on wheels!

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Pi Cruiser: A Raspberry Pi Mobile Computing System

Pi Cruiser: A Raspberry Pi Mobile Computing System

Pi Cruiser: A Raspberry Pi Mobile Computing System

Pi Cruiser: A Raspberry Pi Mobile Computing System

Pi Cruiser: A Raspberry Pi Mobile Computing System

Get started with Raspberry Pi, robotics, and coding as you build your own mini-computer on wheels!

Get started with Raspberry Pi, robotics, and coding as you build your own mini-computer on wheels!

Get started with Raspberry Pi, robotics, and coding as you build your own mini-computer on wheels!

Get started with Raspberry Pi, robotics, and coding as you build your own mini-computer on wheels!

Robotatec
Robotatec
Robotatec
Robotatec
1 Campaign |
Cheyenne, United States
$578 USD 3 backers
5% of $10,000 Flexible Goal Flexible Goal

 

 

So, you bought a Raspberry Pi.

Now what?

 

 


 

 

You need the Pi Cruiser: a complete Raspberry Pi computing system. With the Pi Cruiser, you will build your own rugged mobile robot you can take on the go! Our bot has been uniquely-designed to include space for electronic prototyping and physical room to add accessories, such as a robotic arm (or whatever you want!).

The Pi Cruiser is a great, multidisciplinary experience that lends itself as a fun personal project or for your STEM classroom.

 

 

The Raspberry Pi is a fantastic learning tool. With the release of the latest Raspberry Pi 4, the capabilities are greater than ever, but figuring out how to get started is frustrating.

Eliminate that struggle by giving yourself a high-quality, self-contained mobile system. It is the first integrated Raspberry Pi learning solution.

We have created a step-by-step building guide as well as suggested projects for both coding in Scratch and Python. The guide includes everything from writing basic Command Window functions on your Pi to basic movement to programming your own photobooth for your Pi Camera!

The Pi Cruiser includes everything you need to get going right away. This includes:

We have worked for years to develop unique components and source high-quality parts for the Pi Cruiser. They come together beautifully in a robust, multi-disciplinary experience.
 

You can practice coding directly on your Pi Cruiser using the HDMI Touchscreen. With everything all in one place, you can easily program in Scratch or Python.

 

The Pi Cruiser chassis is injection molded and CNC machined. It is made from a high strength ABS for durability and strength.

Insert molding replaces traditional standoffs. This greatly simplifies assembly and increases sturdiness of the final robot. CNC machining ensures precise motor installation.

 

This means your power source goes with you! In other robots, batteries are consistently being thrown away and replaced. This can be annoying as well as expensive! We include a 8.4 V, 3600 mAh high capacity battery to keep your Pi Cruiser happy for hours.

When you’re done working for the day, simply plug your Pi Cruiser into its charger (included)! You can even charge your Pi Cruiser while it's in use!

 

The power board consists of a dual power supply which provides separate power for the Raspberry Pi and motors. You can program your Pi without ever turning on the motors. When you do turn your motors on and off, your programming environment and accessories won't be affected!

LED indicators are on-board to show you what is on and off. This board puts professional ability into the hands of basic users. With our uniquely designed power board, the Pi Cruiser (along with any accessories) will work consistently.   


Some other features of the power board include:

  • Motors can be directly plugged to the power board to minimize wiring
  • On-board fuse provides an extra layer of protection
  • Easily accessible additional auxiliary 5V power ports for accessories
  • Switchable battery power for additional accessories such as a robotic arm
  • The PC board has been designed with double thickness traces for increased reliability

 

We tested multiple servo motors before choosing these to carry the Pi Cruiser. Our high-torque, continuous rotation servos are strong and specifically designed for robotics applications. They also have low friction and easy access to the rest-point adjustment potentiometer.

 

You have control. You can access all pins! Our uniquely designed breakout board gives you just that.  A medium sized breadboard is also included in the Pi Cruiser kit. It sits snugly on the breakout board and helps minimize complicated wiring.

In addition, it incorporates a general-purpose push button switch and three LEDs for easy programming. As you progress, you can use these components to debug your code and add to your Pi Cruiser's journey!

 

This screen has been specially designed for the Pi Cruiser, plugs directly into your Raspberry Pi, and maintains access to all 40 Raspberry Pi pins. It works with both the Raspberry Pi 3 and Raspberry Pi 4.

The HDMI monitor is also a touch screen for easy data-input and coding!

 

Brackets are extruded from aluminum billets and CNC machined to the final shape. They are then hard anodized for protection against wear and a more abrasion-resistant surface.

 

This mini wrench and mini screwdriver is perfect for assisting in some of the tight parts of the Pi Cruiser assembly.

 

This 2.4 GHz wireless keyboard and mouse is comfortable to code on and still compact for carrying. You can also code your Pi Cruiser to use the keyboard as a "remote" to navigate your Pi Cruiser, take pictures, and more!

 

We wanted to make it easy for new Raspberry Pi users. Setting up Raspian for the first time can be confusing! We've taken care of that for you! The Pi Cruiser kit includes a MicroSD Card and Adapter with the Raspian OS pre-loaded. We have even added sample codes for your Pi Cruiser too!

 

Over the last few years, hundreds of students have tested the Pi Cruiser

We received feedback from Pi enthusiasts, classroom students, and teachers and are now on Version 4 of the Pi Cruiser!

With each update, we have improved the Pi Cruiser experience and are excited to share this newest version with the world.
 

Whether you are a beginner or college student, educator or hobbyist, this Raspberry Pi robotics system will take you through an incredible learning experience.

 

 

We are excited to take the next leap into large scale production. Our production equipment and specialty manufacturers for unique components are all in place. Each part has been tested for quality and is ready for mass production.
 
We are ready to go with your support and backing!
 
 


How did we get here?

The idea for the Pi Cruiser was first formed in 2015. We tried and tested a variety of Raspberry Pi bots and computing systems over the years. The first version of the Pi Cruiser was launched in the Spring of 2017. We are now on the fourth iteration of the Pi Cruiser. With each revision, we received feedback from individual users, hobbyists, and classrooms.

Check out a video of our chassis being CNC machined to cut slots and holes:


The original Pi Cruiser chassis was vacuum formed and CNC machined. Our newest version uses injection molding for the base and CNC machining for holes/cuts. 
 
This is a real, user-tested product that is in production stages. We are well past the prototyping stage and are confident in the product we are sharing with you!
 
 

 

We hope that the Pi Cruiser is just the beginning of your robotics and coding journey!

  • Code your Pi Cruiser to use the included sensor accessories to interact with its environment.
     
  • Program you robot to follow lines with the line tracking sensor and navigate obstacles with the ultrasonic sensor!
     
  • Add a Pi Camera to your Pi Cruiser and program your own mobile photo booth! You'll learn to save and store images and videos using Python code too.
     
  • Set your bot in "rover mode" where you take a video while controlling your robot with the keyboard.
     
  • Live stream to another screen as you go!
     
  • Sample codes for each of these projects are included.

The Pi Cruisers also gives user a solid platform to add on physical attachments. Here's an example of a CAD modeled and 3D printed robotic arm (may be purchased separately):
 

 

The possibilities are endless!

 

Our rewards are simple -- pick up a Pi Cruiser for yourself, a friend, or your classroom today! Each of our pledges include the full Pi Cruiser kit. All you need to do is add your own Raspberry Pi (required) and Pi Camera (optional).

*We chose not to include the Raspberry Pi and Pi Camera in our kit as we know so many of users already have their own*

With your support, we estimate to ship all kits in February 2020. This provides us with sufficient time to place our large-scale orders and prep shipments directly to each backer.

We do have a very special, limited quantity pledge level for Holiday 2019 delivery! As we approach the holidays, we know some of you may know someone who would love to tinker and learn with the Pi Cruiser. We have a limited supply of kits ready to ship in early December in time for the holidays! These kits are full Pi Cruiser kits like all of our pledge levels.

 

If you are interested in purchasing Pi Cruisers for your school or organization at a quantity not listed in our standard perks, please reach out to us! We can provide kits at other select quantities to best meet your school's needs.

 

Please reach out to us at info@robotatec.com with your school/organization name and the number of kits you are interested in. We can then send you a custom quote for your review and a special link to complete the order and you'll be all set!

 


Are you interested in sponsoring a school or curious to see how else you can support us?

We'd love to have you pledge your support on INDIEGOGO and reach out to us so we can talk further!

Email us at info@robotatec.com

Follow us on Instagram @picruiser

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Choose your Perk

Early Bird - Pi Cruiser
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Early Bird - Pi Cruiser

$239 USD $329 USD (27% off)
Snag this early bird deal on the Pi Cruiser! Save BIG and take advantage of the biggest sale ever on the Pi Cruiser. This kit includes everything you need to get started! *Raspberry Pi & Pi Camera not included*
Included Items
  • Pi Cruiser
Estimated Shipping
February 2020
1 out of 50 of claimed
Ships worldwide.
Pi Cruiser Kit (1x)

Pi Cruiser Kit (1x)

$259 USD $329 USD (21% off)
Pick you your own Pi Cruiser Kit today! We love the Pi Cruiser and know you will too. Save BIG and take advantage of our IndieGogo discounts today! *Raspberry Pi and Pi Camera not included*
Included Items
  • Pi Cruiser
Estimated Shipping
February 2020
0 claimed
Ships worldwide.
In Time for the Holidays!

In Time for the Holidays!

$289 USD $329 USD (12% off)
Are you itching to pick up the Pi Cruiser for the holidays? We have a small batch of kits ready to go! These kits will be sent out in early December. We'll be sure to keep you updated as we send out these holiday specials! This holiday rate still includes a 12% discount from our retail rate! *Raspberry Pi and Pi Camera not included*
Included Items
  • Pi Cruiser
Estimated Shipping
December 2019
1 out of 50 of claimed
Ships to United States of America
Pi Cruiser Kit (2x)

Pi Cruiser Kit (2x)

$495 USD $658 USD (24% off)
Pick up a kit for yourself and a friend. This pack includes TWO full Pi Cruiser kits. Learning with a partners is always more fun so we included a special rate for this duo set. *Raspberry Pi and Pi Camera not included*
Included Items
  • Pi Cruiser (2)
Estimated Shipping
February 2020
0 claimed
Ships worldwide.
Pi Cruiser Classroom Set (10x)

Pi Cruiser Classroom Set (10x)

$2,475 USD $3,290 USD (24% off)
Set up your classroom with a full set of Pi Cruisers! This pack includes 10 Pi Cruisers kits. We recommend a 1:1 student to Pi Cruiser ratio for the best experience. This will be our biggest sale on the Pi Cruisers - take advantage and prep for your classroom now! *Raspberry Pi and Pi Camera not included*
Included Items
  • Pi Cruiser (10)
Estimated Shipping
February 2020
0 claimed
Ships to United States of America

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