BONO: the Social Anatomy Robot

Bono is a social educational robot to learn kids about technology and biology in a multidisciplinary course.

Once Bono is build by the kids, he will react when the different organs are plugged in.

This robot is made within the OPSORO project of the University Gent.

Step 1: Required Tools

Opsoro build package wich contains:

• Rapsberry Pi
• Grid and other lasercutted parts
• Eye modules
• Eyebrow modules
• Organs
• Nuts and bolts
• Skull shell

Other tools

• Pair of pliers
• Screwdriver

Step 2: Make the Sensors

1. Connect two holes with a metal wire following the indicated line.
2. Make sure everything is connected tight.
3. Make a plug by rotating the two metal wires round each other. This plug will be used to connect the sensors to the computer.
4. Connect all the other holes in the same way. Make sure the different wires don't connect.
5. Repeat this process for all the different sensors.

How the sensor works:

When the sensor is connected to the computer, a voltage will arise. Because the loop isn't closed there won't be send current back to the computer. The organs have metal pins therefore when they are plugged in the loop will be closed. When there is a closed loop there will be send a signal back to the computer. This way Bono can react when organs are plugged in. The pins on the organs always have a different position. As a result, each sensor will detect only one organ.

Step 3: Connect the Sensors to the Grid Using Bolts and Nuts

Make sure every sensor has the right position.

Step 4: Mount the L-holders to the Grid

Step 5: Connect the Eye- and Eyebrowmodules on the Horizontal Lines

Make sure the modules can move horizontally, this will later help to align the eyes in the skull shell.

Extend the wires throught the grid.

Step 6: Connect the Footrests

Step 7: Build the Adapter Holder

Step 8: ​Add the Adapter Holder to the Grid

Step 9: Add the Computer to the Bono

Connect the wires between the sensor and the computer.

Step 10: Mount the Skull to the L-holders

Step 11: Add the Eyebrows to the Servos

Step 12: Play and Learn

Step 13: (extra) Make the Organs Yourself

• Model the organs in polystyrenefoam.
• Add bolts in the organ.
• Treat the models with polystyrene-resin and fiber glass.
• Paint the organs in a realistic or fun color.