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3Doodler's new kits help kids make robotic bugs and dinosaurs
3Doodler's safer, cuter 3D-printing pen for kids called Start can already bring their imagination to life. But these new sets can help them get used to drawing objects if they're just starting out and take their creations to the next level. The company has launched new Start sets at Toy Fair 2018, including a collaboration with insect robot-maker HexBug. It comes with Doodlemolds in the shape of bugs' legs and bodies, as well as motorized parts, so kids can build actual moving critters and race their friends. 3Doodler says the kit can help teach kids physics, engineering and structural principles, since they'll have to make sure the bug they designed can actually move.
HexBug's robotic creatures are the creepy crawlers of the future
Okay, so it isn't as artsy as making gooey bugs in a miniature oven, but HexBug's little micro-robotic tchotchkes are a good time in their own right. The digital entomologists at HexBugs decided to unleash the new Ant Micro and Nano Newton at New York City's Toy Fair, and for some peculiar reason we were quite enamored with watching these autonomous, high speed creatures run around the carpeted show floor. Powered by two button cell batteries, $11.99 Ant Micro has front and rear touch sensors that allow it to maneuver around objects in its path and it's hard, colored transparent exoskeleton casing was durable enough for the little guys to crash into a wooden plank and reverse course. The $9.99 tiny motor powered, 12-legged Nano Newton holds a special place in our heart, and the Jolly Rancher sized caterpillar vibrates uncontrollably and is able to flip itself over and walk forward. HexBugs will also sell different Habitat sets so the creatures can run around on their own without adult supervision. Luckily for you, these little guys weren't camera shy -- check the pics below! %Gallery-85583%
