Cyberbricks - are these the Lego Mindstorms killer?

What are Cyberbricks?

CyberBrick is a modular smart toy ecosystem that combines programmable hardware, 3D printable structures, and dual-level coding environments.

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 toys to productivity tools.

Four Concepts of Cyberbricks

There are four aspects to Cyberbricks:

1. Modular Hardware - core, shields, input & output modules
2. 3D-Print Framework - designed for easy assembly and customization, with open design specs and reference models
3. Dual-Level Coding - App-based configuration and MicroPython programming
4. Open Source Community - share and explore projects

Cyberbricks are manufactured by Makerworld, which is a subsidiary of Bambu Labs - Cyberbricks Website.

Modular Hardware

• Core Board
• Sheilds
• Input Modules
• Output Modules

Core Board

The core of the Cyberbrick system is the Core Board, which houses an ESP32 C3 based microcontroller. This board provides the processing power and connectivity needed to bring your creations to life.

The core board has the following features:

• ESP32 C3 microcontroller
• Built-in Bluetooth
• Runs MicroPython

Shields

Shields are expansion boards that connect to the Core Board to provide additional functionality. There are two main types of shields available for Cyberbricks: the Remote Control Transmitter Shield and the Remote Control Receiver Shield.

Remote Control Transmitter Shield

The Remote Control Transmitter Shield allows you to control your Cyberbrick creations wirelessly. It features a number of analog and digital inputs for connecting joysticks, buttons, and other control elements.

Features:

• 6 ADC Inputs
• 4 Digital Inputs
• Combines with Core module
• Battery connector
• Price £5.89

Remote Control Receiver Shield

The Remove control Receiver Shield receives signals from the transmitter shield and translates them into actions for your Cyberbrick creations. It includes multiple motor ports and LED ports for versatile output options.

2 DC motor ports, 4 servo motor ports 2 WS2812 RGB LED ports Price £7.59

Input Modules

Cyberbricks offers a variety of input modules to enhance your projects. These modules can be easily connected to the core board and shields to provide additional functionality.

Single-Axis Joystick Module

The Single-Axis Joystick Module provides a simple way to add joystick control to your Cyberbrick projects. It features a single-axis joystick for intuitive input.

Features

• 3Pin SH1.0 Connector
• Price £2.59

Dual-Axis Joystick Module

The Dual-Axis Joystick Module offers enhanced control with two axes of movement. This module is perfect for projects that require more complex input.

Features:

• 2x 3Pin SH1.0 Connectors
• Price £3.39

Three-Position Rocker Switch Module

The Three-Position Rocker Switch Module provides a simple way to add switch input to your Cyberbrick projects. It features a three-position rocker switch for versatile control.

Features:

• 3Pin SH1.0 Connector
• Price £2.59

Power Switch Module

The Power Switch Module allows you to easily control the power to your Cyberbrick projects. It features a simple on/off switch for convenient power management.

Features:

• 2Pin XH2.54 Connector (1PCS)
• Price £2.19

Momentary Button Module

The Momentary Button Module provides a simple way to add button input to your Cyberbrick projects. It features a momentary push button for quick and easy control.

Features:

• 2Pin SH1.0 Connector
• Price £1.29

Output Modules

Output modules provide various ways to interact with your Cyberbrick projects. From motors to LEDs, these modules allow you to bring your creations to life.

WS2812 LED Hub

The WS2812 LED Hub module allows you to control multiple WS2812 RGB LEDs in your Cyberbrick projects. It features a hub design for easy connection and management of your LEDs.

Features:

• 3Pin SH1.0 Connector
• Price £1.79

WS2812 RGB LED

The WS2812 RGB LED module provides vibrant color output for your Cyberbrick projects. It features a single WS2812 RGB LED for eye-catching effects.

Features:

• IDC0.8 4PIN (2PCS)
• Price £2.99

030 Micro DC Motor

The 030 Micro DC Motor module allows you to add motorized movement to your Cyberbrick projects. It features two micro DC motors for versatile motion capabilities.

Features:

• with SH1.0 (2pcs)
• Price £3.60

N20 Reduction Gear Motor

The N20 Reduction Gear Motor module provides powerful and precise motorized movement for your Cyberbrick projects. It features a geared motor for enhanced torque and control.

Features:

• 150, 400 & 1000 RPM variants
• Price £5.99

9g Servo Motor with Clutch Protection

The 9g Servo Motor with Clutch Protection module allows you to add precise servo control to your Cyberbrick projects. It features a clutch protection mechanism to prevent damage from overloading.

Features:

• Available as a 180° or continuous rotation versions
• Price £4.39

Models

Cyberbricks provides a variety of 3D-printable models that can be used to create custom structures and enclosures for your projects. These models are designed to be easily assembled and customized. Check out the Cyberbricks Model Library for more designs.

My thoughts

I’m excited by the Cyberbricks system, and am impressed by the value engineering into making the core board, shields and modules affordable. The use of the ESP32 C3 microcontroller means that Cyberbricks can run MicroPython, which is a big plus for me as a MicroPython advocate.

I’ll be looking to develop some Cyberbricks projects in the near future, so stay tuned for more updates!