PlatROB: An open-source, modular, and low-cost hardware platform for mobile robotics and AI education

This paper introduces PlatROB, an open-source, modular, and low-cost educational robotics platform designed to facilitate hands-on learning in robotics and AI through system integration. PlatROB comprises four 3D-printable, classroom-ready modules: an Ackermann Drive Module (ADM), an Omnidirectional/Differential Drive Module (ODM/DDM), a Control and Processing Module (CPM) with NVIDIA Jetson Nano, and a 4-DoF Articulated Manipulation Module (AMM). Inter-module communication uses standardized I2C over DB9 connectors, integrating Arduino microcontrollers, motor drivers, encoders, IMUs, and ultrasonic sensors. Module costs range from $129 to $341. Performance validation shows the ADM supports 10 kg payload, achieves 25 cm turning radius and has 120 min autonomy (3 kg load), while the CPM sustains 40-100 min operation depending on neural-network workloads. The AMM provides 450 g payload capacity for introductory manipulation tasks. Successfully deployed in workshops and university courses with over 160 learners, demonstrating significant learning gains (p < 0.05) across academic levels and enabling teleoperation and autonomous navigation projects. All mechanical and electronic design files, build manuals, and validation code are open-source to support replication in resource-constrained settings. By providing a scalable, documented hardware-software stack compatible with ROS/ROS2, PlatROB lowers barriers to experiential learning in SLAM, perception, and advanced autonomy.