MakerWorld Launches a Crowdfunding Campaign for CyberBrick: A LEGO-Inspired 3D-Printed Toy Ecosystem
Official and community models are brought to life through the magic of 3D printing and a modular Espressif ESP32-C3 electronics platform.
MakerWorld has launched its first Kickstarter campaign, for a device that aims to provide a "smart toy" ecosystem, which combines 3D-printed toys with a modular electronics system powered by Espressif's ESP32-C3 microcontroller running MicroPython: CyberBrick.
"Cyberbrick is a modular smart toy ecosystem that combines programmable hardware, 3D printable structures, and dual-level coding environments," the company explains. "It is where 3D printing collides with electronics and coding through LEGO-like simplicity. CyberBrick empowers anyone to build and enjoy a wide range of 3D-printed projects, from R/C [Radio-Controlled] toys to productivity tools."
The core idea behind the project is simple: the design of a modular electronics ecosystem, connecting an Espressif ESP32-C3 microcontroller to add-ons like remote control receivers and transmitters, motors, buttons, switches, batteries, LEDs, and more. These electronics can then be inserted into 3D-printed toy shells — ranging from trucks and race-cars to fork-lifts and cranes — to make them go.
Key to the endeavor is that MakerWorld isn't going it alone: the company is best-known for running its eponymous 3D modeling platform, where designers can shares models for others to print — and contributors from that community have already submitted designs for printable CyberBrick-compatible creations. Not everything is a toy, either: MakerWorld has also shown off a kit that turns the controller module into a time-lapse controller for phones, DSLRs, or action cameras.
The hardware is designed to be programmed using MicroPython, though official models come with pre-written firmware for instant plug-and-play control from either a dedicated RC controller or a smartphone app. "The core controller, functional shield, and other electronics modules are all reusable across multiple projects," the company adds, "reducing e-waste created by disposed traditional toys."
The company is currently funding the project on Kickstarter, and has already easily succeeded its goal; hardware starts at HK$116 (around $15) for the time-lapse kit with no 3D-printed parts and rises to HK$777 (around $100) for remote-controlled vehicle kits which include both the electronics and pre-printed parts. All hardware is expected to ship this May, MakerWorld says.
