January 24, 2022 Software Update + Genesis v1.6 Documentation + Rotary Tool

[roryaronson]

Hi all,

We’ve got a big update for you all today. Let’s kick it off!

Genesis v1.6 documentation

About a month ago we released the documentation for FarmBot Genesis and Genesis XL v1.6. The latest iteration of our flagship devices includes an all-new Rotary Tool (more on that below), an upgraded vacuum pump with EMI filtering, a new Farmduino, a modularized 2-piece UTM cable, fully pre-assembled tools, and other optimizations throughout the product. Read the full change log here!

Rotary tool

In case you had not seen it already, earlier this month we posted a new video to our YouTube channel showcasing the new Rotary Tool included with all of our FarmBot Genesis and Genesis XL v1.6 kits. The Rotary Tool features a 24 volt DC motor, interchangeable implements, and an adjustable motor angle allowing FarmBot to perform light duty weed whacking, soil surface milling, and drilling operations:

FarmBot Genesis Rotary Tool

We look forward to seeing how our latest batch of customers uses the new tool to help take care of their garden!

One-step mount and dismount tool sequences

We just published two new featured sequences: one for mounting tools to the Genesis UTM and the other for dismounting tools. What’s neat about these sequences is that they smartly work with any slot direction, they keep you informed of their progress via the Jobs popup, and they perform various checks to ensure success or let you know why they failed. For example, the Mount Tool sequence will not allow you to accidentally try to mount a tool when a different tool is already mounted!

To try out these sequences, click the links above to view a preview of the sequence. Then click the IMPORT button to add the sequence to your account. You can now use them as part of larger sequences, modify them, or schedule them on their own. Enjoy!

New Lua helpers and documentation

Over the last few months we have continuously added to the capabilities of the Lua sandbox built-in to FarmBot OS. With the latest release (FBOS v14.8.1) you’ll now find new helpers for interacting with the FarmBot API, getting parts of the current date/time, and more. We’ve also added documentation for the new job progress helpers as mentioned last update.

[7h364rd3n3r]

Hi there,

nice work !

Do any machine safety reglations apply to Farmbot with the introduction of the new rotary tool?

Paul

[roryaronson]

While I cannot speak to any local regulations that may or may not exist in your country or at your company or school, the Rotary Tool’s motor is fairly low powered relative to other common household tools and garden equipment:

Equipment	Power (watts)
FarmBot Genesis Rotary Tool	Less than 10
Hand-held Dremel tool	100+
Electric weed trimmer	150 to 300

That being said, some commonsense precautions should be taken when using the tool:

• Do not connect or disconnect the tool from the UTM by hand when the FarmBot is powered on.
• Do not change the tool’s implement (drill bit, for example) while it is mounted to the UTM.
• Keep hands, feet, hair, and other body parts away from the tool when mounted to the UTM, especially when the tool is powered.
• When the tool is powered, maintain a safe distance and be mindful of debris (rocks, sticks, dirt) that may be kicked up.
• If closer observation is absolutely necessary while the tool is being used, use appropriate protective equipment such as safety glasses, a face shield, and/or protective clothing.

[jturbett]

Not a very pretty PETG print but it did fit! Now to find a RF-500TB-12560 24v Motor and receive the farmduino upgrade board, oh and wait for this winter thaw!