Protei Mini-RC "Sputnik" is a remotely controlled (radio) modular sailing robot. The design is aimed at being easy to make in most makerspace, low cost, easily extendable. This is NOT a high-performance device and not fit for long-term navigation in the open ocean. This is a small prototype to get acquainted with Protei Shape-Shifting sailing technology, and a fun platform to experiment. If you already own a RC kit (receiver + transmitter) Protei MIni-RC "Sputnik" with 4 modules should definitely cost under 100 USD to build (in San Francisco).
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Modular
The key concept of Protei Sputnik is modularity. Inspired by the Soviet and first-ever satellite, Protei Sputnik is about a new beginning, an impulse.
We do not recommend you to build this specific version of Protei as it does not sail very well but you can find instructions on instructables.
Simple & Affordable
Protei Sputnik can be made with affordable materials and by non-professionals.
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0, 90, 180 Degrees
We tested Protei Sputnik with 4 modules, capable of turning at 90º. To make a 180º turn, we would need 7 modules.
Video by Charlie Nordstrom, Pier 9, Autodesk
Sometimes it doesn't work - but that's how we learn. That is the truth about developing new technology, on the way to have something that works, you produce a lot that doesn't. In the instructables, I am giving all the details of this prototypes, what worked, what did not, what I intend to improve. And I would love to have your comments to improve it too :) Thanks !
This version was made thanks to the support of the Autodesk Foundation, Pier 9, as part of the Impact Residency ProgramMore information: http://www.instructables.com/id/Protei-MIni-RC-Sputnik/
Special thanks to :
